How to Select a Heat Exchanger
Heat exchangers are critical components in industrial processes, used to transfer heat between two fluids without mixing them. From power plants to food processing, selecting the right type of heat exchanger can significantly improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and optimize space usage.
This guide helps you understand the key factors in choosing the most suitable heat exchanger based on your process conditions, operating environment, and budget.
🔍 Key Factors in Selecting a Heat Exchanger
how to select a heat exchanger
1. Type of Fluids
-
Are the fluids liquids, gases, or viscous materials?
-
Are they corrosive or hazardous?
-
Do they require sanitary or hygienic conditions (e.g., food or pharmaceutical)?
2. Temperature and Pressure Requirements
-
High pressure or temperature? → Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers are ideal.
-
Moderate conditions? → Plate or Air Cooled units may be sufficient.
-
Consider the temperature differential (∆T) between hot and cold fluids.
3. Cooling Medium Availability
-
No access to cooling water? → Use Air Cooled Heat Exchangers (ACHEs)
-
Abundant water available? → Shell & Tube or Plate heat exchangers can be used.
4. Space Constraints
-
Limited space? → Plate Heat Exchangers offer compact, high-efficiency solutions.
-
Outdoor space available? → Air Cooled systems can be installed in open areas.
5. Maintenance & Cleaning Needs
-
Frequent cleaning? → Plate-type units are easy to dismantle and clean.
-
Long service life with minimal access? → Shell & Tube or Air Cooled are preferable.
6. Cost Considerations
-
Initial investment vs lifecycle cost must be evaluated.
-
Water-cooled units may be cheaper to install but have higher operating costs.
-
Air Cooled systems have higher initial costs but lower OPEX due to zero water usage.
🧱 Common Types of Heat Exchangers & Their Suitability
| Factor / Type | Shell & Tube | Air Cooled (Fin Fan) | Plate Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| High pressure/temp | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good | ❌ Not recommended |
| Water requirement | ✅ Required | ❌ None | ✅ Required |
| Footprint | Medium–Large | Large (outdoor) | Compact |
| Cleaning & maintenance | Moderate | Easy | Easy (frequent needed) |
| Initial cost | Moderate | Higher | Low |
| Efficiency (per m² area) | Moderate | Moderate | High |
🏭 Typical Industry Applications
-
Oil & Gas, Refineries: Shell & Tube, Air Cooled
-
Power Generation: Shell & Tube
-
Food & Beverage: Plate Type
-
Petrochemical & Offshore: Air Cooled (Fin Fan)
-
HVAC / Chiller Plants: Plate or Shell & Tube
🔗 Suggested
1.Air cooled heat exchanger (Fin Fan) working principle
2.Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger
💬 Consult HESCO-Thailand Experts
At HESCO-Thailand, we offer complete in-house design and fabrication of all heat exchanger types — including Shell & Tube, Air Cooled, Double Pipe, and Pressure Vessel. Our engineers work with your process team to deliver custom, efficient, and durable heat transfer solutions.
📩 Email: jimmy@hesco.co.th
📞 Call: +66 983282941
