Heat transfer is often an integral parameter in the process operation and this is achieved by heat transfer equipment which come in various designs.
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Heat exchangers transfer heat from a hot fluid to a colder fluid through the combined mechanisms of conduction and forced convection. In most heat exchangers, a metal wall separates the two fluids. All heat exchangers are similar in their principle of operation; however, heat exchangers may differ in the specific fluids that are used in the heat transfer process, the layout of the metal tubes, and the configuration of the enclosure. While several classifications are possible, the most common is by consideration of construction features.
Common types of heat exchangers are:
Shell-and-tube heat exchangers
Air-cooled heat exchangers
Double-pipe heat exchangers
Helical coil heat exchangers
Plate-and-frame heat exchangers
Advances in the field have resulted in new types of heat exchangers as Screw Plug/Breech Lock type