How the Coil Works in the System: A Step-by-Step Process
- Hot Fluid Entry: The hot process fluid (e.g., water at 65°C / 150°F), after absorbing heat from an industrial process or power plant condenser, enters the heat exchanger coil via the inlet header.
- Heat Conduction through the Tube Wall: The heat energy from the fluid conducts through the metal wall of the tubes.
- Heat Dissipation via Fins: The heat travels into the fins, which are also made of highly conductive metal. The fins heat up.
- Airflow Removes the Heat: Cool, ambient air is forced (by fans) or drawn over the outside of the finned tubes. This air absorbs the heat from the fins and tube surfaces, causing the air temperature to rise.
- Cool Fluid Exit: Having given up its heat, the process fluid inside the tubes cools down (e.g., to 45°C / 113°F). It exits the coil through the outlet header and is returned to the process to absorb more heat.
- Cycle Repeats: This cycle is continuous, with the coil constantly acting as the intermediary for heat exchange.