Plate Heat Exchanger Connection Types: Performance, Selection Criteria, and Application Principles
Plate heat exchangers are compact and highly efficient equipment designed to provide maximum heat transfer between two fluids at different temperatures. However, plate design is not the only factor that affects system performance. Connection types play a critical role in the hydraulic performance, ease of installation, cleaning, and maintenance processes of the exchanger.
In this article, the connection types used in plate heat exchangers will be examined in detail, along with their application areas, technical advantages, material compatibilities, and selection criteria.
1. Function and Importance of Connections
In plate heat exchangers, connections are the transition points that allow fluids to enter and exit the exchanger. These connections:
- Ensure tightness
- Enable mechanical assembly
- Determine the direction of flow
- Ensure compatibility with CIP (Cleaning in Place) systems
- Affect performance in terms of pressure, temperature, and corrosion resistance
Therefore, selecting the correct connection type for the application is crucial for the integrity and safety of the system.
2. General Classification of Connection Types
|
Connection Type
|
Description
|
Application Area
|
|
Flanged Connection
|
Bolted and gasketed connection type
|
Industrial plants, high pressure
|
|
Threaded Connection
|
BSP/NPT threaded connection; suitable for small diameter lines
|
HVAC, residential systems
|
|
Clamp (Tri-Clamp)
|
Hygienic connection; easy to dismantle and assemble
|
Food, pharmaceutical, biotechnology
|
|
Welded Connection
|
Provides permanent connection, usually for high pressure/temperature
|
Steam, chemical processes
|
|
Victaulic (Grooved)
|
Offers quick assembly, sealing with a gasket
|
Fire lines, HVAC systems
|
|
SAE / O-Ring Groove
|
O-ring gasketed connections; used in hydraulic systems
|
Mobile hydraulic applications
|
|
Opposing / Cross Connection
|
Connection configurations that determine the flow direction
|
Thermal balance, efficiency optimization
|
3. Flanged Connections
3.1. Definition and Characteristics
Flanged connections are the classic connection method preferred in systems that require high pressure resistance, where pipes and equipment are secured with a bolt-nut combination.
3.2. Technical Specifications
|
Feature
|
Values / Description
|
|
Flange Standards
|
DIN EN 1092-1, ANSI B16.5, JIS, BS
|
|
Nominal Diameters
|
DN 25 – DN 300
|
|
Pressure Classes
|
PN 6, PN 10, PN 16, PN 25, ANSI 150/300
|
|
Materials
|
Carbon steel, AISI 304, AISI 316, PP, PVDF
|
|
Gasket Element
|
Flange gasket (spiral wound, PTFE, rubber)
|
3.3. Advantages
- High pressure and temperature resistance
- Suitable for use in large diameter systems
- Sealing reliability
- Wide material compatibility
3.4. Application Areas
- Process industries (chemical, petrochemical)
- Food and energy production
- Heat recovery systems
4. Threaded Connections
4.1. Definition
Threaded connections are easy to assemble and cost-effective solutions typically preferred in small diameter systems.
4.2. Technical Specifications
|
Feature
|
Value / Standard
|
|
Thread Type
|
BSP (G) / NPT
|
|
Diameter Range
|
½” – 2” (DN15 – DN50)
|
|
Sealing
|
Teflon tape, sealing compound
|
|
Material
|
Brass, stainless steel, galvanized
|
4.3. Advantages
- Easy installation
- Low cost
- Ideal for low-pressure systems like HVAC
4.4. Disadvantages
- Not suitable for high pressure
- Thread wear with frequent use
5. Clamp (Tri-Clamp) Connections
5.1. Definition
Tri-Clamp is a quick connection type used in hygienic applications that