While it may not be as prominent as many other dairy processing technologies, the heat exchanger is far from lowly. The equipment, which is used to transfer heat between two or more fluids during the cooling and heating processes without mixing the fluids together, can have a major impact on processing efficiencies and operating expenses. But to realize maximum benefits from systems, it is crucial that processors leverage the optimal devices for their specific operations while also adhering to the proper maintenance and sanitation procedures.
Plate heat exchangers, for instance, offer high heat transfer efficiency due to a large surface and typically have a smaller footprint than shell and tube exchangers, says Adam Koss, mechanical engineer for Koss Industrial Inc., a Green Bay, Wis.-based heat exchanger developer. He notes that plate exchangers are ideal for handling low- to medium-viscosity fluids at higher flow rates, while shell and tube designs can operate at higher temperatures and pressures and are a good option for fluids that are highly viscous or contain particulates.