wide gap
benefits
- Maximum uptime for fouling applications
- High energy efficiency – low operating cost
- Flexible configuration – heat transfer area can be modified
- Easy to install – compact design
- High serviceability – easy to open for inspection and cleaning and easy to clean by CIP
- Access to Alfa Laval’s global service network
Wide, Wider, WideGap
Alfa Laval WideGap gasketed plate-and-frame heat exchangers are suitable for fibrous fluids and for fluids containing coarse particles. Typical applications for Alfa Laval WideGap heat exchangers are sugar, bioethanol and pulp and paper processes. Depending on the duty, WideGap heat exchangers can be configured either with wide-wide or wide-narrow channels. This makes the units suitable for heating, cooling and interchanging duties.
Alfa Laval’s WideGap gasketed plate-and-frame heat exchangers stand out as specialized solutions designed to handle challenging fluids, specifically those laden with fibrous materials or coarse particles. Engineered for robust performance, these heat exchangers feature a unique plate configuration with wider gaps between the plates, providing ample space for the passage of fluids with suspended solids.
The design of the WideGap heat exchanger is tailored to accommodate substances that might typically pose challenges for conventional systems. Fibrous fluids, slurries, or those containing coarse particles can be effectively processed without the risk of clogging or diminished performance. The wider gaps between plates reduce the likelihood of blockages, ensuring smooth fluid flow and minimizing maintenance requirements.
This adaptability makes Alfa Laval’s WideGap gasketed plate-and-frame heat exchangers invaluable in industries where processing media with varying particle sizes is common. Applications range from wastewater treatment and pulp and paper manufacturing to food and beverage processing. By offering reliable heat exchange even in the presence of challenging fluids, Alfa Laval’s WideGap technology contributes to the efficiency and resilience of industrial processes, emphasizing their commitment to innovation in thermal transfer solutions.
What is a WideGap heat exchanger?
A WideGap heat exchanger transfers heat between separate fluid streams through plates with enlarged flow channels. It is designed to accommodate fibres, coarse particles and viscous liquids.
How is WideGap different from a conventional plate heat exchanger?
Its channel geometry provides more room for challenging process fluids to pass through. Selection still requires a balance between heat transfer, pressure drop and fouling behaviour.
Which industries use Alfa Laval WideGap?
Typical applications include sugar, bioethanol, and pulp and paper processes. Suitability depends on the individual process stream and duty.
Can WideGap recover heat from process liquids?
Yes. A suitably designed installation can transfer heat from a warmer process stream to a colder stream. Recoverable heat depends on flow rates, temperatures and fluid properties.
Does a WideGap heat exchanger eliminate fouling?
No. Wider passages help reduce obstruction by fibres and particles, but deposits can still form. Inspection and cleaning remain necessary.
Can WideGap be cleaned without opening the frame?
Cleaning-in-place may be suitable for some deposits. Where it is insufficient, the gasketed frame allows access for inspection and mechanical cleaning. Follow the equipment’s cleaning instructions.
What particle size can a WideGap handle?
There is no single particle-size limit for the entire range. Provide particle dimensions, shape, concentration and fibre information so the proposed configuration can be assessed.
What pressure and temperature can WideGap operate at?
Limits depend on the model, frame, plate material, gaskets and approved specification. Refer to the nameplate and technical documentation rather than applying one rating to every unit.
Can an existing WideGap heat exchanger be expanded?
Some installations can accommodate changes to the plate pack. Feasibility depends on frame capacity, plate arrangement and thermal and hydraulic calculations.
Where can I enquire about WideGap in Hyderabad?
Contact Surya Sankara Trading, an Authorised Distributor for Alfa Laval products, for WideGap application discussions and product enquiries in Hyderabad and South India.
Further readings on Plate Heat exchangers
- What is plate heat exchanger
- Benefits of plate heat exchangers
- Plate heat exchanger maintenance guide
- How to select a plate heat exchanger
- Common plate heat exchanger problems
- Plate heat xchanger cleaning guide
- Energy saving using plate heat exchanger
- Plate heat exchanger buying guide
- Plate heat echanger or pharmaceutical industry
- Plate heat exchanger for food & beverage processing
