While all heat exchangers perform the same role, which is carrying heat from one medium to another, they do it in different ways. There are two major types of heat exchangers. One is the plate or fin and the other one is the shell and tube heat exchanger. In the former type of exchanger, the carrying fluid flows via a set of metal tubes whereas the second one goes through a sealed shell surrounding them. One important aspect to keep in mind is that the two fluids flow in the same direction or in a parallel flow.
However, they are also capable of flowing in opposite directions or in a counter flow as well as a right angle or known as cross-flow. The most common example of an application that benefits from using a shell and tube heat exchanger are the boiler found in steam locomotives. On the other hand, the plate/fin type is often used in a gas boiler. It consists of thin metal fins, hence the name. This heat exchanger is very common in nuclear plants where heat exchange is very essential.
Despite their distinctions, both the plate/fin exchanger and shell and tube heat exchanger work effectively in minimizing heat losses and prevent heat from escaping the buildings, machines, and engines. They are sometimes called regenerators or recuperators. When it comes to materials, heat exchangers are made from metals which are, of course, required for them to conduct heat effectively. However, there are some heat exchangers that are constructed using plastics and ceramics.
If the application involves high temperatures, ceramics exchangers can be used. They are also great for uses that involve abrasive or corrosive fluids. Conversely, plastic exchangers are also applicable even for applications involving corrosion, they are perfect for other uses like showers or swimming pools.
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