Inflection Point Engineering Heat Exchanger Engineering Curriculum

Plate Frame

Module from the Heat Exchanger Engineering Curriculum curriculum.

Module 6 - Plate and Frame Exchangers · Learning Objectives · 1. Identify advantages: high U (500-1500), compact, cleanable · 2. Select gasketed (open-cleanable) vs brazed (compact) vs welded · 3. Apply temperature and pressure limits: <450 F and <300 psi typical · 4. Design for fouling service with wide-gap plates · 5. Size approach temperature as low as 2 F possible (vs 10-20 F for S&T) · Plate Exchanger Comparison

Type Max T (F) Max P (psig) Cleanable Cost Use
Gasketed plate 450 300 Yes - open Low Utilities, CIP
Brazed plate 450 450 No (CIP only) Low HVAC, small duty
Welded plate 750 1000 Limited Medium Process duty
Spiral plate 750 400 Partial Medium Slurries, fouling
Plate-and-shell 900 1500 Yes High High-P process

Source: Heat_Exchanger_Engineering_Curriculum_v1.xlsx · Sheet: Plate Frame