A flexible heat exchanger facilitates the transfer of heat across industrial equipment. Depending on the machine, the parts can be in direct contact or divided by a barrier to prevent mixing. There are two main types of heat exchangers. Parallel-flow heat exchangers allow fluids to enter the heat exchanger from the same end, while counter-flow heat exchangers require the fluids to enter from opposite sides. Generally speaking, the counter-flow method transfers the most heat.

Flexible heat exchangers are used in chemical plants, natural gas processing, refrigeration, air conditioning, space heating, petroleum refineries and many other ways. Even the radiator in your car uses a heat exchanger to transfer heat to the the air in your radiator. Consider the following:

1. Selecting a flexible heat exchanger that can handle your application often requires computer modeling, due to the number of calculations involved.

2. You can test for leaks in your flexible heat exchanger using a conductivity test or the helium method. This will tell you whether there is any cross-contamination.

3. Sometimes flexible heat exchangers collect chemical precipitation on the outside. This happens mainly in cold heat exchangers and can decrease conductivity.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy flexible heat exchangers from a reputable flexible heat exchanger distributor

Flexible heat exchangers are exchangers with flexible or reconfigurable parts, such as tubing. These work best in situations where the placement of a traditional heat exchanger would be awkward and bulky. Flexible heat exchangers may not work as well for some applications, so it's best to ask a flexible heat exchanger manufacturer to help you calculate pressure ratings, temperature range and other specifications.

I recommend: Buy flexible heat exchanger pipes from Noren Products. You can also choose from a wide range of heat exchangers at Bart & Associates, or other flexible heat exchanger distributors.

Purchase custom flexible heat exchangers

If you need industrial flexible heat exchangers, or you find flexible heat exchanger suppliers don't have what you need, many companies will custom design your flexible heat exchanger to fit your exact specifications. They can help you decide the metal, type and size of your flexible heat exchanger.

I recommend: Commission a design from Wattco, a custom manufacturer of flexible heat exchangers, or ask for input from Riggins.

Get flexible heat exchanger repairs

As with all heat exchangers, flexible heat exchangers will need preventative maintenance and repairs. Sometimes flexible heat exchanger manufacturers offer repairs and maintenance, or you can find a shop locally. Heater and boiler repair services often repair heat exchangers as well.

I recommend: Get repairs from Purvis & Foster or ask Hetsco to repair your flexible heat exchanger.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  You may be able to get a discount on flexible heat exchanger repairs and maintenance if you purchase a warranty or protection plan from the exchanger manufacturer. Depending on the size of your company and the protection you need, many manufacturers offer discounts on plans if you purchase them with your exchanger.