How does a plate heat exchanger work?

Added: Friday, 5/5/2023


A plate heat exchanger is a device that plays a very important role. It is responsible for transporting heat from one environment to another. It is worth knowing that heat exchangers have a wide range of applications and are used wherever it is necessary to transport energy in the form of heat. It is worth learning more about this topic.

Hexonic plate heat exchanger on a black background

Check out the plate heat exchangers at the Onninen wholesaler

Why is a plate heat exchanger used?

A plate heat exchanger is very often used. Importantly, it consists of thin plates that are connected to each other. The exchanger can consist of a different number of plates, it all depends on the thickness. It is used, for example, to insulate buildings. It can be an addition to central heating, so its task is to insulate the air that will get into the house or apartment. It can also be the basis of central heating, as it transfers heat from a radiator or other heating element. The medium used can be both liquid and gas. The use of a plate heat exchanger allows for the distribution of heat, e.g. from a fireplace to radiators or from a furnace to radiators. It is also used to insulate the air. It improves the operation of the installation both at home and in public places. Another important fact is that the use of this device is very simple. By choosing a high-quality model, you do not have to worry about the need for frequent repairs. All you need to do is carry out an inspection and maintenance.

Plate heat exchangers are used for heating or cooling, and even ventilation. They can be located in:

  • central heating system
  • air conditioning system
  • recuperator
  • a heating plant supplied from the city network

The use of a heat exchanger allows for cost reduction.

How does a plate heat exchanger work?

The principle of operation of a plate heat exchanger is very simple. It consists of two circuits that are partially connected. The first has a higher pressure and temperature than the second. The circuit containing, for example, a high-temperature liquid transfers heat to the circuit with a lower temperature and lower pressure. Heat exchange therefore occurs on the basis of the pressure gradient. The situation is similar in the case of gas. Thanks to the use of this method of heat transfer, this exchanger does not require a large amount of energy, and in some cases it does not need to be supplied at all. Importantly, the force that drives the transfer of heat acts completely naturally and there is no need to improve or accelerate its exchange. The efficiency of heat exchange is increased as a result of the increase in the pressure gradient between the two circuits. Heat will therefore be transferred faster from the warmer medium to the one with a lower temperature. Energy is therefore redirected from the high-pressure system to the low-pressure system. In installations, heat recovered from the air with a higher temperature heats the air with a lower temperature. At the same time, the gases do not mix with each other, but the thermal energy is used. Warm and stale air is removed from the interior to the outside, and its energy is used to heat the new air, which is cold.

Overview of plate heat exchangers in the Onninen offer

Plate heat exchanger In the Onninen offer you will find high quality plate heat exchangers. The LA14-20-3/4" Hexonic single-flow brazed plate heat exchanger is a device with a wide range of applications. Thanks to its excellent technical parameters, it will work well in the food industry in public places, but also in a home or apartment. It is not only efficient, but also reliable and does not require frequent repairs. It has a strong, brazed construction. It is characterized by low energy consumption, which translates into low operating costs. It is made of stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion, as well as the effects of other harmful compounds. It has a 3/4" diameter connection. Thanks to this, the exchanger can be quickly connected to the installation.

The XB 06L-1 10 Danfoss brazed exchanger is another great model. It has good technical parameters, as well as efficiency. Like the previous model, it will work well in both industry and public buildings.

Our review also includes the LB31-20-1" Hexonic single-pass brazed plate heat exchanger . In this exchanger, the heat exchange surface is made of stainless steel plates, which are additionally corrugated. The fluid flow is directed. It is worth paying attention to the large number of connections, which in this case is 4.

Check out the plate heat exchangers at the Onninen wholesaler