Editorial Technical Reference

Plate Heat Exchanger

This page explains how Plate Heat Exchanger is classified within Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A compact heat transfer device that uses thin, corrugated metal plates to efficiently transfer thermal energy between two fluid streams.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Plate Heat Exchanger

Definition
Within an Industrial System, the Plate Heat Exchanger is a critical component designed for efficient thermal management. It facilitates the transfer of heat from a hot fluid stream to a cold fluid stream without allowing the fluids to mix, thereby enabling precise temperature control, process heating or cooling, and energy recovery within the system. The device consists of a series of thin, corrugated metal plates, typically made of stainless steel (e.g., AISI 316) or titanium, which are sealed with gaskets (NBR or EPDM) and mounted in a carbon steel frame. The plates are arranged to create alternating passages for the two fluids, maximizing the surface area for heat transfer while inducing turbulent flow to enhance efficiency. The heat transfer area ranges from 1 to 500 m², and the design pressure is 1.0–2.5 MPa (per GB/T 16409), with a design temperature range of -20 to 200 °C. Plate thickness varies from 0.5 to 1.2 mm, and the maximum flow rate is 10–1000 m³/h. The heat transfer coefficient is typically 2000–7000 W/(m²·K), which is higher than that of shell-and-tube exchangers due to the turbulent flow. Connection sizes range from DN25 to DN300 (per GB/T 9115), and overall dimensions vary from 500×300×500 mm to 3000×1500×2500 mm, with weights from 50 to 5000 kg. Selection of a specific model depends on the required thermal duty, available space, fluid properties, and operating conditions. For corrosive media, 316L stainless steel is recommended, while titanium is suitable for seawater applications. Gasket material limits the maximum temperature, and higher pressure requires thicker plates and a stronger frame. Verification of model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier is essential before procurement.
Working Principle
The Plate Heat Exchanger operates by channeling two separate fluid streams through alternating passages formed between a series of thin, corrugated metal plates sealed with gaskets. The large surface area and turbulent flow induced by the plate corrugations maximize heat transfer. Heat from the hot fluid conducts through the plate material and is absorbed by the cold fluid on the opposite side. The plates are arranged in a frame, and the number of plates determines the heat transfer area. The corrugations create a high degree of turbulence, which enhances the heat transfer coefficient and reduces fouling. The gaskets prevent mixing of the fluids and direct them into the appropriate passages. The design allows for easy disassembly for cleaning and maintenance.
Common Materials
Stainless Steel (e.g., AISI 316), Titanium
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Heat Transfer Area1–500 Select based on required thermal duty and available space.
Design Pressure1.0–2.5 MPaHigher pressure requires thicker plates and stronger frame.GB/T 16409
Design Temperature-20–200 °CGasket material limits maximum temperature.
Plate Thickness0.5–1.2 mmThinner plates improve heat transfer but reduce pressure rating.
Plate Material304/316L316L for corrosive media; titanium for seawater.ASTM A240
Gasket MaterialNBR/EPDMNBR for oils, EPDM for chemicals and high temperature.
Max Flow Rate10–1000 m³/hDepends on port size and plate arrangement.
Heat Transfer Coefficient2000–7000 W/(m²·K)Higher than shell-and-tube due to turbulent flow.
Connection SizeDN25–DN300 mmMatch to piping system.GB/T 9115
Frame MaterialCarbon steelCoated for corrosion resistance.
Overall Dimensions (L×W×H)500×300×500–3000×1500×2500 mmVaries with plate count and frame size.
Weight50–5000 kgDepends on size and material.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Heat Transfer Plate Part
    Provides the primary surface for conductive heat transfer between fluid streams. Corrugations enhance turbulence and structural rigidity.
    Material: Stainless Steel
  • Gasket Part
    Seals the perimeter and port holes of each plate, preventing fluid leakage and intermixing between channels.
    Material: Elastomer (e.g., NBR, EPDM)
  • Frame Plate (Pressure Plate) Part
    Forms the stationary end of the plate pack and provides structural support and connection points for piping.
    Material: Carbon Steel
  • Movable Cover Plate Part
    Forms the movable end of the plate pack, allowing for compression of the plate pack and future addition/removal of plates for maintenance.
    Material: Carbon Steel

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Plate Heat Exchanger.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Up to 25 bar (standard), up to 40 bar with reinforced plates
flow rate: 0.5 to 2500 m³/h per stream
temperature: -40°C to 200°C (typical), up to 250°C with special gaskets
slurry concentration: Up to 15% solids by volume (varies with particle size)
Media Compatibility
✓ Water/glycol solutions ✓ HVAC chilled water systems ✓ Food-grade liquids (milk, juice)
Unsuitable: Highly viscous fluids (>500 cP at operating temperature)
Sizing Data Required
  • Heat duty (kW)
  • Inlet/outlet temperatures for both streams
  • Allowable pressure drop (bar)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Gasket degradation and leakage
Cause: Chemical incompatibility with process fluids, thermal cycling causing compression set, or aging from prolonged exposure to high temperatures leading to loss of elasticity and sealing capability.
Plate fouling and scaling
Cause: Deposition of minerals, biological growth, or suspended solids from process fluids due to inadequate filtration, improper water treatment, or operating outside design temperature/pressure ranges, reducing heat transfer efficiency and increasing pressure drop.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Visible external leakage of process fluid at plate pack joints or gasket interfaces, indicating compromised sealing integrity.
  • Abnormal increase in pressure drop across the exchanger or significant reduction in heat transfer efficiency, audible as increased pump noise or system strain.
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular water quality monitoring and pre-filtration (e.g., using strainers or side-stream filters) to minimize fouling agents, and adhere to manufacturer-recommended chemical cleaning schedules based on pressure drop trends.
  • Use gaskets specifically rated for the process fluid's chemical composition and temperature range, and follow proper torque sequences during assembly to ensure even compression and prevent premature gasket failure.

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 15547-1: Plate heat exchangers - Design and construction ASME BPVC Section VIII: Rules for construction of pressure vessels EN 13445: Unfired pressure vessels - Part 5: Inspection and testing

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Plate flatness: ≤0.1 mm per meter
  • Gasket groove depth: ±0.05 mm
Quality Inspection
  • Hydrostatic pressure test: 1.5 times design pressure for 30 minutes
  • Dye penetrant inspection: All plate surfaces for cracks and defects

Manufacturers of Plate Heat Exchanger

5 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Jiangsu Sinton Group
Jiangsu, CN
Founded 200120,000 sqm
EAC Ex CE ISO +1
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Changzhou Vrcoolertech Refrigeration Co., Ltd.
Jiangsu, CN
Also makes: Heat Exchanger, Dehumidifier, Tube Bundle and 7 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
ENCO FRP Tank
Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
SAIDELI Industrial Solutions
Jiangsu, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Shanghai Shenglin M&E Technology
Shanghai, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
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Inspection readiness
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical materials used for plates and gaskets?

Plates are commonly made of stainless steel (e.g., AISI 316) or titanium, with 304/316L grades available. Gaskets are typically NBR for oils or EPDM for chemicals and high-temperature applications. The choice depends on the fluid compatibility and operating temperature.

What is the maximum design pressure and temperature?

The design pressure ranges from 1.0 to 2.5 MPa, per GB/T 16409. The design temperature range is -20 to 200 °C, limited by the gasket material. Higher pressures require thicker plates and a stronger frame.

How do I select the right heat transfer area?

The required heat transfer area (1–500 m²) depends on the thermal duty, flow rates, and temperature differences. Consult the manufacturer or supplier to calculate the area based on your specific process conditions.

Can the unit be disassembled for cleaning?

Yes, the plate heat exchanger is designed for easy disassembly. The plates and gaskets can be removed for cleaning or replacement, which facilitates maintenance and inspection.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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