When purchasing a plate-fin heat exchanger, how can one determine whether the equipment will be easy to maintain during later use? The following points are summarized from the perspective of routine maintenance for reference in model selection and operation and maintenance.
It is recommended to calibrate the actuation accuracy of the temperature controller once every six months to confirm that the outlet temperature remains stable within the set range. Calibration records should be archived for traceability of controller performance trends. If deviations exceed the allowable range, the controller should be adjusted or replaced promptly to avoid abnormal medium temperature caused by inaccurate control.
Record the inlet and outlet temperature, pressure, and flow data of the heat exchanger every shift, and establish a trend file. By comparing historical data, abnormal signs such as decreased heat exchange efficiency and increased pressure difference can be identified in a timely manner, providing a basis for cleaning or maintenance. The record sheet should include date, shift, operator, and remarks on abnormal conditions to ensure data traceability.
Suitable media for plate-fin heat exchangers include hydraulic oil, compressed air, and water-glycol solution. During procurement, the core material should be confirmed according to the actual medium: aluminum alloy is suitable for general working conditions, while stainless steel is suitable for slightly more corrosive environments. Interface forms support flange and threaded connections, and selection must match on-site piping to avoid increased modification costs due to incompatible interfaces.
Design pressure and design temperature are determined according to the ordering agreement. Purchasing personnel should clearly specify the operating condition parameters in the contract and verify whether the design documents provided by the manufacturer are consistent with the agreement. After arrival, check that the nameplate parameters match the agreement to avoid affecting subsequent use safety due to parameter mismatch.
