Piping Directions Connections to the heat exchanger are identified by a color label (fig.1). In most applications the highest efficiency will be realized by connecting the heat exchanger for countercurrent flow (fig. 4). Certain special applications may require co-current (parallel) flow (fig. 5). Countercurrent flow Standard connections for liquid applications are threaded connections; solder connections are standard for refrigerant units. On systems where the water quality is in question, the installation of a strainer is required to prevent large particles from becoming lodged in the heat exchanger. A 16 to 20 mesh strainer is recommended. Blockage in the heat exchanger will lead to fouling or freezing of the heat exchanger. The strainer must be located at the inlet to the heat exchanger. Strainers located at the cooling tower or pump, while worthwhile for system operation, will not adequately protect the heat exchanger. On new or renovation systems, flushing the liquid piping to remove construction debris is recommended before connecting the piping to the heat exchanger. Figure 6 illustrates a typical heat exchanger application to isolate the glycol snow melting loop from the boiler water. Approaches as close as 2oF minimize losses in the system. Heat exchanger to isolate snow melting circuit WTT Series brazed plate heat exchangers are used extensively as refrigerant condensers and evaporators. For condenser applications, (fig. 7), the superheated discharge gas enters the heat exchanger at the top left and subcooled liquid refrigerant condensate leaves from the bottom left connection. The cooling water enters at the bottom right and leaves at the top right. This true countercurrent flow allows close approaches resulting in increased efficiency and lower water flow rates. |
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