Selection Of Material for Heat Exchanger

When selecting a material for a heat exchanger, it is important to consider

the properties and characteristics of the material in relation to the
application requirements. Factors such as thermal conductivity, corrosion
resistance, mechanical strength, and compatibility with the fluid being
processed should all be considered. Additionally, factors such as cost,
availability, and ease of fabrication should also be considered. A materials
expert can help with the selection of the most appropriate material for a
specific heat exchanger application.

Carbon Steel:
▪ Carbon steel is a popular material for heat exchangers because of its
relatively low cost and good mechanical properties.
▪ It is suitable for applications where the operating temperature is below
500°F (260°C) and the fluid being processed is non-corrosive.

Stainless Steel:
▪ Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, carbon, and chromium that is highly
resistant to corrosion and oxidation.
▪ It is commonly used in heat exchangers for applications where the
operating temperature is below 1000°F (538°C) and the fluid being
processed is corrosive or acidic.

Copper and Copper Alloys:

▪ Copper and copper alloys, such as brass and bronze, are commonly used
in heat exchangers because of their high thermal conductivity and good
corrosion resistance.
▪ They are suitable for applications where the operating temperature is
below 400°F (204°C) and the fluid being processed is non-corrosive.

Titanium:
▪ Titanium is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal that is commonly
used in heat exchangers for applications where the operating
temperature is above 400°F (204°C) and the fluid being processed is
highly corrosive.
▪ It is also used in applications where the heat exchanger must be
resistant to erosion or abrasion.
Nickel and Nickel Alloys:
▪ Nickel and nickel alloys, such as Inconel and Monel, are highly resistant
to corrosion and oxidation, making them suitable for applications where
the operating temperature is above 1000°F (538°C) and the fluid being
processed is highly corrosive.
▪ They are also used in applications where the heat exchanger must be
resistant to high pressures or stresses.

Ceramic:
▪ Ceramic materials, such as alumina and silicon carbide, are highly
resistant to heat and corrosion, making them suitable for high-
temperature and corrosive applications.
▪ They are commonly used in heat exchangers for the chemical and
petrochemical industries.

Aluminium:
▪ Aluminium is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant metal that is
commonly used in air-cooled heat exchangers.
▪ It is suitable for applications where the operating temperature is below
400°F (204°C) and the fluid being processed is non-corrosive.

Plastics:
▪ Plastics, such as polypropylene and PVC, are used in heat exchangers
for corrosive applications where metal is not suitable.
▪ They are commonly used in applications where the operating
temperature is below 180°F (82°C) and the fluid being processed is
highly corrosive.

Graphite:
▪ Graphite is a highly conductive material that is suitable for high
temperature applications.
▪ It is commonly used in heat exchangers for the chemical and
petrochemical industries, as well as in nuclear power plants.

Glass:
▪ Glass is a highly corrosion-resistant material that is used in heat
exchangers for highly corrosive applications, such as in the
pharmaceutical and food industries.
▪ It is suitable for applications where the operating temperature is below
300°F (149°C).

Prepared By Primal Hirpara

Tantalum:
▪ Tantalum is a highly corrosion-resistant metal that is commonly used in
heat exchangers for highly corrosive applications, such as in the
chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
▪ It is suitable for applications where the operating temperature is below
500°F (260°C).

Hastelloy:
▪ Hastelloy is a family of nickel-based alloys that are highly resistant to
corrosion and oxidation.
▪ They are commonly used in heat exchangers for highly corrosive and
high-temperature applications, such as in the chemical and
petrochemical industries.

Prepared By Primal Hirpara