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CESCO offers the first gasketed plate heat exchangers specifically designed for steam heating applications. These units are supplied with a special gasket system to extend the temperature range allowed with a gasketed unit. Four plate sizes are available, as shown in the following diagram:
 
Predicted peformance data for the various units:
|
Unit Number |
Max Design Temp
(One Year of Operation) |
Recommended Max Operating Temp
(Four Years of Operation) |
|
1 |
356 deg F |
330 deg F |
|
2 |
338 deg F |
310 deg F |
|
3 |
338 deg F |
310 deg F |
|
4 |
338 deg F |
310 deg F |
The main features of this series of exchangers are the unique geometry and strength of the plates, the special gaskets that can tolerate temperatures up to 356 deg F, and the robust frame to handle the more severe requirements associated with steam service. There are three main areas where substantial cost savings can be realized, as follows:
1. Savings in energy
- no flash steam, and resulting energy losses
- fine temperature control due to the rapid heat transfer; this results from the small hold-up volume and high surface to volume ratio
- minimal steam consumption due to minimal condensation temperature; the lower wall temperature on the water side also hinder surface scaling
2. Savings in time
- easy to change capacity by adding or removing plates
- minimal scaling, so less cleaning time is required
- rapid maintenance, cleaning, and inspection with a unit that can be disassembled quickly
3. Savings in cost
- smaller footprint facilitates installation in tight locations
- no need for a separate condensate subcooler
- no thermal fatigue problems due to the flexible gasket system and thin plates; cracking and worn components are not encountered like in rigid shell and tube exchangers
Size comparison of gasketed plate steam heater
vs. shell & tube exchanger for identical duties
Unlike shell and tube units, the very small hold-up volume between the plates, enables these units to continue to operate during stalling - that is under vacuum - which leads to a build-up of condensate in the heat exchanger. This often occurs when heating water to less than 212 deg F. In shell and tube units, this leads to big problems with temperature control, and steam implosions, that can damage the heat exchanger and associated equipment through water hammer.
Packaged units are available that come equipped with pumps and controls, as shown in the following example:
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