Victrex has reported that by replacing metal in its spiral plate heat exchangers with Aptiv film, Makatec has been able to enhance the exchanger's design and reduce overall systems cost.
Heat exchangers are used to transfer heat between fluids and gases.
They can also be used as condensers and evaporators.
In this design, Aptiv film is spiral bound with high-temperature-resistant glue to provide the right mixture of high-temperature performance and chemical resistance.
It provides an effective barrier against many liquids and gases, is lightweight, halogen-free, and withstands lead-free soldering process temperatures.
It is also RoHS compliant and can be used to manufacture products compliant with the same directive.
Environmentally friendly and 100 per cent recyclable, Makatec heat exchangers achieve heat transfer coefficients in the range of 1kW/m2K (176 BTU/hft2F) comparable to conventional plate heat exchangers.
The spiral design allows volume specific heat exchange areas up to 1000 m2/m2 (305 ft2/ft2).
The smooth surfaces of Aptiv film reduce the risk of residue build-up inside the heat exchanger, therefore minimising the danger of microbial contamination.
The heat exchangers are well suited for use in potable water systems and in the food sector, as well as in pharmaceutical industry and biotechnology applications.
By using Aptiv film to replace metal, Makatec has been able to achieve overall systems cost reduction.
The exchanger's simple design allows for low cost assembly even for unique specifications.
It costs less than a stainless steel exchanger and, when compared to conventional plate heat exchangers, operational costs are reduced due to the minimal pressure drop required by the pump engine.
Maintenance and service costs are also reduced due to the corrosion resistance of the Aptiv film.
Aptiv film offers the performance properties of Victrex Peek polymer, including: high temperature capability, chemical resistance, durability and scratch resistance, radiation resistance, mechanical properties, and barrier and electrical properties.
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