Coil Heat Exchangers: Applications and Advantages

When it comes to heat exchangers, coil heat exchangers specifically are ideal for applications including boiler air preheating, pulp dryers, unit heaters, condensing and cooling as well as high-pressure, air tempering and dryer applications. Depending on the application, there are many types and styles of coil heat exchangers to choose from. Some of these include stainless tube bundles, double-pip heat exchangers, stainless steel tube immersion coil, bare tube immersion cooler, gas to water cooler, tedson coil heat exchangers, copper coil heat exchangers, combination ambient air/chiller water cooler, or coil tube-in-shell design to name a few. Each of these may also come in a variety of sizes and each have specific advantages. However, coil heat exchangers in general can be expected to have many advantages overall as well.

Photo courtesy of HEXECO, Inc.
Some advantages of coil heat exchangers include high efficiency, flexibility, low pressure drop, they require little maintenance, are compact and lightweight, and are also easy and inexpensive to install. Coil heat exchangers tend to have higher efficiency than other types because of the large number of closely aligned tubes. This design aspect enlarges the heat transfer area, which results in a higher heat transfer coeffient overall. This efficiency equates to higher production while using less energy and that means big savings both upfront and in the long run. The coil type heat exchanger is also known for being compact and lightweight due again to the closely packed tubes. The exchangers’ compact, lightweight design as well as their unique vertical orientation also means that they will take up less space and will be easier and less expensive to install. Their lightweight and compactness also lends to the flexibility mentioned earlier.
Another advantage of these heat exchangers is that there are many options when it comes to model types and configurations, which means they can be used with a wide variety of temperatures, flows and pressures. This flexibility equates to greater value overall. In addition to the benefits I just mentioned, coil heat exchangers also have low pressure drop and require little maintenance as the structure of the tubes allows for turbulent fluid flow, which minimizes fouling and scale build up. They can also be easily removed from the piping system to be flushed if that is necessary. Saving time and money both on installation and maintenance can go a long way for your business, and allows for overall smoother operations and less hassle and frustration.

Photo courtesy of HEXECO, Inc.
If you are in the market for a heat exchanger, consider one of the many different styles, configurations, and materials of coil heat exchangers available. Contact a manufacturer near you and discuss your specific applications and operations in order to select the perfect product for your unique needs. Experience the valued advantages such as high efficiency, flexibility and easy maintenance and discover the unexpected ways your operations will benefit and improve in short time!