Components of Plate Heat Exchanger
- Frame Plate (Head Plate): The fixed end of the frame that holds the plate pack.
- Pressure Plate (Movable Cover): The movable end that applies pressure to compress the plate pack. It can be moved back for cleaning or maintenance.
- Plates: The most important component. They are typically made of stainless steel, titanium, or other alloys, and are stamped with a corrugated pattern. This pattern strengthens the plates and promotes turbulence.
- Gaskets: Seals placed in the grooves around the edge of each plate. They prevent the fluids from leaking to the outside and from mixing with each other. Gasket materials (like Nitrile, EPDM, Viton) are chosen based on the fluid type, temperature, and pressure.
- Carrying Bar & Guide Bar: The top and bottom bars that support the plates and keep them aligned when the frame is opened.
- Tightening Bolts: Large bolts that compress the plate pack between the frame and pressure plates.