Plate heat exchanger design and selection

Information to send for thermal sizing

• Identify both fluids, concentration, suspended solids and any composition changes.
• Give each stream’s normal, minimum and maximum flow rate with units.
• Specify inlet temperatures and required outlet temperatures for both sides.
• State normal and maximum operating pressure and temperature; distinguish these from required design conditions.
• Provide allowable pressure drop for each side and the available pump information.
• Describe cleaning fluids, concentrations, temperatures and frequency.
• Include connection requirements, installation space, utilities and plant location.

If a value is not known, say so in the enquiry. Assumed data should be agreed before final selection.

Heat duty, temperature difference and plate area

For sensible heating or cooling, Q = ṁ × cp × ΔT relates mass flow, specific heat and temperature change. The two sides should give a consistent heat balance after accounting for losses. For phase change, use the enthalpy difference rather than a constant specific-heat shortcut.

The simplified relation Q = U × A × ΔTlm connects overall heat-transfer coefficient, area and logarithmic mean temperature difference for an appropriate flow arrangement. U depends on the fluids, plate pattern, velocity and surface condition; it is not a universal catalogue constant. Multi-pass configurations may require a correction. These relations explain the inputs but do not replace a manufacturer’s thermal rating.

Pressure drop and fouling

A more restrictive channel arrangement may improve heat transfer while increasing pressure loss. Selection must balance thermal performance with the pump system, viscosity and fouling risk. Adding plates without checking flow distribution can change channel velocity and performance.

Record clean operating flow, temperatures and pressure drop during commissioning. Later changes are useful indicators only when compared at similar operating conditions. Reduced performance can also result from changed inlet conditions, air, blocked strainers or reduced flow.

Materials, gaskets and maintenance access

The Food Grade PHE page lists SS 304 / SS 316 plate options; Industrial PHE materials are duty specific. A material name alone does not confirm suitability for every concentration or temperature. Check both the process fluid and the cleaning fluid, and use the approved gasket specification.

Allow space to open the frame and remove plates. Confirm isolation, draining, lifting access and connection loads with the installation team. Follow the unit documentation for tightening dimensions and commissioning sequence.

What determines plate heat exchanger price?

Price depends on the required duty and temperature approach, plate area and material, gasket specification, frame design, connections and supply scope. A replacement plate pack and a complete installed system are different quotations.

Compare offers using the same process data and agreed scope, including documentation, spares, transport and any installation support. No fixed price or universal capacity is published here because the equipment is selected for the application. Send your duty details for a quotation.