How to Read a Heat Exchanger Datasheet
A guide to the key fields on a heat exchanger datasheet — duty, LMTD, flow rates, pressure drop, materials and design conditions.
Thermal duty and LMTD
The datasheet states the heat duty (kW or kcal/h) and the log-mean temperature difference (LMTD) that drives it. Together with the overall heat transfer coefficient and the surface area, these confirm the unit meets the required heat transfer. Check that the stated duty matches your process requirement.
Flow rates and temperatures
For each side you will see the medium, mass or volume flow, and inlet/outlet temperatures. Verify these against your actual operating conditions — a unit sized for different flows or temperatures will not perform as expected in your system.
Pressure drop
Allowable and calculated pressure drop per side is listed. If the calculated pressure drop exceeds what your pumps can deliver, the unit will not reach design flow. Pressure drop is the most common reason a correctly-rated exchanger underperforms in the field.
Materials and design conditions
The datasheet lists plate or tube material, gasket compound, design pressure and design temperature, and the applicable code (ASME, PED, GB). Confirm these match your fluid chemistry and the maximum upset conditions your system can reach.
Need help interpreting one?
Jiangxing's engineering team will review any datasheet — yours or a competitor's — and confirm or improve the selection. Send it to Evan, jxmike@shheatex.com, or WhatsApp +86 173 1725 8304.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key fields on a heat exchanger datasheet?
Thermal duty and LMTD, flow rates and temperatures per side, allowable and calculated pressure drop, materials and gasket compound, and design pressure, temperature and code.
Why is pressure drop important on the datasheet?
If the calculated pressure drop exceeds what your pumps can deliver, the unit will not reach design flow. Pressure drop is the most common reason a correctly rated exchanger underperforms.
How do I confirm the unit suits my process?
Verify the stated duty, flows and temperatures against your actual operating conditions, and confirm the materials and design conditions match your chemistry and upset limits.
Send your working conditions to Evan
Share your medium, temperatures, flow rate and pressure — Evan will return a thermal selection and indicative pricing after reviewing the available data.