Application Areas / Maritime
Ships, being isolated vessels that navigate long durations on their own resources, require self-sufficiency and efficient operation of all systems, which is of vital importance. Our plate heat exchangers and complementary products serve the following areas in the maritime sector:
Cooling Systems on Ships
Engine cooling systems are divided into two types: direct and indirect, or two-circuit cooling. Direct cooling is straightforward and suitable for engines designed as marine engines from the outset. Cylinder blocks and other components with internal water circulation are protected with alloys and materials resistant to seawater. All outboard marine engines and most small, powerful inboard engines are designed this way. A seawater pump, driven by the engine, circulates water through the engine to provide cooling. This pump is calibrated to ensure adequate cooling even under the most strenuous conditions, so under normal use, the engine does not reach the ideal operating temperature and runs cold. Therefore, such marine engines are equipped with additional devices like a bypass line and thermostat to adjust the water flow to the engine, ensuring it heats up sufficiently.
In two-circuit cooling systems, freshwater circulates inside the engine, similar to terrestrial vehicles or stationary industrial engines, thus protecting the engine's internals from the effects of seawater. A seawater pump powered by the engine (which can also supply water to the exhaust system and bearing shells) sends seawater to an MIT Plate Heat Exchanger. The heated freshwater from the engine circulates through the plates inside the MIT Plate Heat Exchanger, transferring its heat to the seawater, cooling down, and then returning to the engine.
Central Cooling Systems
In central cooling systems, seawater is used to cool the secondary freshwater circulation line. This cooled freshwater serves as the cooling fluid for exchangers in systems requiring cooling, such as engine water cooling and jacket water cooling. Using freshwater in the second circuit reduces corrosion and wear on circuit components in the machinery lines, as well as minimizing backup and maintenance costs. MIT Plate Heat Exchangers, offering optimal solutions for all capacities, keep initial investment costs at minimum levels. Our exchangers, compatible with all systems due to their various plate angles and types, standardly offer plates in stainless steel and titanium, with additional plate materials available to suit your needs. In the maritime sector, standard bodies can be used, but for situations where weight is critical, specially designed complete aluminum and aluminum alloy lightweight bodies are also available.
Corrosion-Resistant Exchangers
One of the maritime sector's most significant issues is the highly corrosive effect of seawater. MIT Plate Heat Exchangers offer a definitive solution to this problem with their corrosion-resistant complete titanium and 316 titanium alloy plates. MIT Plate Heat Exchangers are the sector's single solution point with a variety of plates, seals, and bodies suitable for every process that might be needed on a ship.