A device engineered to transfer thermal energy between two or more fluids, at different temperatures, is a crucial component in numerous industrial processes. The primary objective is to facilitate either heating or cooling of a specific fluid stream. For instance, in power plants, these devices recover waste heat from exhaust gases to preheat incoming air, improving overall efficiency.
The implementation of these thermal transfer units offers significant advantages, including energy conservation, cost reduction, and enhanced process control. Historically, their development has been driven by the need for efficient energy utilization and has evolved alongside advancements in materials science and thermodynamics. Their effective operation is fundamental to the performance and sustainability of many engineering systems.
