Heat Exchanger

"A heat exchanger is a device that transfers heat from one fluid (liquid or gas) to another without the fluids mixing." Types of Heat Exchangers: 1. Based on Flow Arrangement: a. Parallel Flow Hot and cold fluids flow in the same direction. Less efficient than counter-flow. b. Counter Flow Hot and cold fluids flow in opposite directions. Most efficient type. c. Cross Flow Fluids move perpendicularly to each other. Common in automotive radiators. 2. Based on Construction: a. Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger One fluid flows through tubes, another around the tubes inside a shell. Used in oil refineries, power plants. b. Plate Heat Exchanger Thin metal plates stack with gaps for fluids to flow. High efficiency, compact size (used in HVAC). c. Finned Tube Heat Exchanger Tubes with external fins to increase surface area. Ideal for air heating/cooling. d. Air Cooled Heat Exchanger Uses air to remove heat instead of water. Used in places with limited water supply. 3. Based on Heat Transfer Method: a. Direct Contact Fluids physically mix, transferring heat directly. Example: Cooling towers. b. Indirect Contact Fluids are separated by a solid wall, no mixing. Most common in industries.

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