Heat Exchangers
Brazed plate heat exchangers for combi boilers, boilers, solar energy, and underfloor heating circuits: 12-plate models with 3/4 and 1/2 inch connections.
Products (2)
- Mit MB-01 Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger, 12 Plates, Connection 3/4"–1/2", 180 L/h – $66.31
- Welko EL30C-12 Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger, 3/4" - 1/2" Connections, 185 L/h – $36.51
What is a plate heat exchanger?
Plate heat exchangers are devices consisting of thin stainless steel plates brazed together that transfer heat between two separate fluid circuits without mixing the fluids. Hot and cold fluids typically flow in opposite directions through the narrow channels between the plates; the large contact surface area enables high heat transfer in a compact body.
Applications
- Production of domestic hot water from a boiler or solar energy circuit
- Separation of the underfloor heating circuit from the boiler circuit
- Heating of pool water
- Circuit separation in cooling systems
- Connection of solid-fuel boilers to closed-loop systems
The 12-plate models in this category are suitable for residential and small commercial applications, with 3/4 and 1/2 inch connections.
Selection criteria
Heat exchanger capacity is determined by the amount of heat to be transferred, the inlet and outlet temperatures of both circuits, and the flow rates. As the number of plates increases, the heat transfer surface area grows and capacity increases. Connection sizes must match the pipe diameters of the circuits. The pressure and temperature rating of the heat exchanger must meet the operating values of both circuits. For definitive selection, consulting the manufacturer's capacity tables or a plumbing engineer's calculation is recommended.
Installation and maintenance
The heat exchanger must be connected in the correct direction according to the connection labels; counter-flow connection provides the highest efficiency. Installing a Y-strainer at the inlets prevents the narrow channels from becoming blocked. In hard-water areas, scale gradually builds up in the channels and reduces efficiency; in such cases, back-flushing with a suitable chemical solution can be performed. The heat exchanger must not be left empty in locations at risk of freezing, or must be used with antifreeze solution.
Frequently asked questions
How is heat exchanger capacity calculated?
It is calculated based on the amount of heat to be transferred, circuit temperatures, and flow rates; manufacturer tables simplify this calculation.
What does the number of plates change?
As the number of plates increases, the heat transfer surface area and capacity increase.
Why does a heat exchanger lose efficiency?
Scale and sediment buildup is the most common cause; regular flushing restores efficiency.
Can it be used in place of a combi boiler's heat exchanger?
Heat exchangers inside combi boilers are device-specific; the manufacturer's compatible spare part must be used.
Can it be used for pool heating?
Heat exchangers made from materials resistant to pool water must be used.
Does connection direction matter?
Yes; counter-flow connection improves heat transfer.
In what position is a heat exchanger mounted?
Most plate heat exchangers are mounted vertically with the connections on one side. Follow the markings on the product label for mounting orientation and connection order.