Plate Heat exchange (PHE) configuration 1

[StewPad]

Hi All,

Can anybody tell me which the best PHE nozzles configuration is?
(Thermodynamic and homogeneously distribution wish)
Inlet and outlet nozzle at the same side (front) or from front to back

Thanks

 

[rmw]

Inlet and outlet nozzles on the stationary frame is the most common arrangement (indicates 2 pass) and the easiest to pipe to/from. While 2 pass configurations are possible with one or more nozzles on the movable frame, I doubt anyone in their right mind would want to do it that way.

However, multiple pass units have to have one or more of the nozzles on the movable frame, depending on which pass is multi-pass, if not both.

Nozzles on the movable frame require special attention to the piping to/from those nozzles, since due to the compressibility of the gaskets, the nozzles can be at slightly different locations each time the unit is closed again. Not impossible, but you have to design it very carefully.

BTW, P&F's typically don't like to have to support piping loads. Unsupported piping loads can cause the frame to twist and cause the unit to leak. Do your piping support right the first time.

rmw

 

[StewPad]

Thanks RMW,

I do understand that from a mechanical and layout POV the best option is located the nozzle on the stationary frame.

But if we disregard this constrain and only focus on the thermodynamic, do we gain any Advantest by forcing the fluid to the other frame.

 

[rmw]

I would select a multi-pass PHE in a heartbeat in order to gain performance. They offer a lot of advantages. But, when I did, I would do it knowing that I had some real piping challenges to work on.

I have used them and would use them again. My next PHE is more than likely a 2 pass on one side.

rmw