Processes handling particles, slurries or viscous media often block conventional heat exchangers. The resulting fouling reduces heat transfer and increases pressure drop, and cleaning can require frequent shutdowns.
The flow path
A spiral plate heat exchanger is formed by rolling two parallel plates into spiral channels. The medium follows a continuous curved path at a stable velocity. There is no tube bundle or baffle dead zone where solids can settle, so the channel is less likely to block.
Advantages
- Compact footprint and high heat transfer efficiency
- Self-cleaning spiral channel with good blockage resistance
- Reliable seals and good pressure capability
- Detachable construction available for mechanical cleaning
Where it fits
Spiral plate units are used in chemical, oil, food, pharmaceutical, waste heat recovery and metallurgical duty. They are particularly useful where the medium contains solids, tends to foul or has a higher viscosity. For clean, high-pressure duty, a shell and tube exchanger may still be the better choice.
Mazelu selects the channel width, plate material and fixed or detachable construction against the medium and cleaning requirement.