Heat Exchangers for Heat Pumps: Evaporators, Condensers and Sources

A heat pump moves heat using a refrigerant cycle, and heat exchangers are the components where heat actually enters and leaves the refrigerant. The evaporator absorbs heat from the source; the condenser releases heat to the load. Brazed and gasketed plate heat exchangers are the dominant choice for both because of their compact size and high efficiency.

Copper- or nickel-brazed plate heat exchangers handle refrigerant on one side and water or glycol on the other. They are sealed, compact and rated for the high pressures of modern refrigerants such as R410A and R32. Correct sizing and refrigerant distribution are critical for stable performance.

Ground-source and water-source heat pumps use a separate plate heat exchanger to transfer heat between the ground or water loop and the refrigerant circuit, protecting the compressor from fouling and freezing. Titanium plates are used where seawater or aggressive water is the source.

Heat pump exchangers must be sized for the duty at the design approach temperature, with attention to pressure drop and refrigerant charge. Jiangxing supplies brazed and gasketed plate units for heat pump OEMs and installers — send your capacity, refrigerant and water conditions to Evan, jxmike@shheatex.com, or WhatsApp +86 173 1725 8304.