How to Select a Heat Exchanger for Air Cooling
Introduction Choosing the right heat exchanger for air cooling is an important decision in industries such as HVAC, data centres, process plants, and refrigeration systems. The best choice can improve thermal performance, reduce size and cost, and increase reliability and serviceability. This guide covers key considerations, common types, and practical steps to help you select the right heat exchanger for your air cooling needs. Define the Cooling Requirements Heat load: Determine the total heat that needs to be removed (W or BTU/h). Include steady-state and peak loads, and consider safety margins. Inlet and outlet temperatures: Specify the temperatures of the hot fluid or solid surface that needs cooling, along with the acceptable outlet temperature. Air-side conditions: Note the ambient air temperature range, humidity, and whether the air is clean or contains particulates, corrosives, or fouling agents. Flow rates: ...