EN
In the case of plate heat exchangers (PHEs), selecting the correct one for a specific application from well know brands such as Alfa Laval, GEA, and Tranter is crucial maintenance task. Using the wrong substitute leads to leakage, low thermal efficiency, and downtime. SME has more than 100 professional technical support staffs and more than 5000m workshop located in Nantong, and we have performed more than 500 projects each year, more than 1000 vessels have purchased our spares. Not only knowing the brand, but also the model, and matching material so that it is suitable is equally important.
Decoding Model Numbers and Compatibility
To begin with we require the specific model number of your heat exchanger. Each manufacturer has its own design systems and this defines plate geometry, port size and the gasket configuration.
Alfa Laval: Typically uses all forms of alpha numerics, including M3, M6, M10, M15, T20, P16 and P26. An "M" series for example, means that it has a specific herringbone pattern, while "T" and "P" series denote different pressure classes and flow capacities. Even within the same brand and plate type, using the incorrect package can adversely affect hydraulic balance.
GEA: GEA models are often denoted as VT4, VT8, VT10, VT20, or the NT100, NT250, and NT350 series. These are designations of the plates depth of pressing and the frame size. For instance, the VT engine coolers are frequently used in marine engine coolers.
Tranter: The identifiers on Tranter plates include GL-13, GX-18, GX-26 and GC-51. The "GL" and "GX" prefixes denote both the angle of the chevrons and the different degrees of thermal performance.
A supplier that will have a complete cross reference database will have the capability to match these models to the proper plate and gasket set, ensuring dimensional and thermal parity with the original equipment.
Material Selection: Media Compatibility
Plate and gasket materials must be selected based on operating conditions for the system (fluid and temperature). Alkalinity, chemicals, and heat require special alloys, elastomers and materials to resist breakdown easily.
Plate Materials:
Stainless Steel (304/316L): Ideal with fresh water, oils and mild chemicals. Nevertheless, 316L is prone to the attack of chloride (pitting) in seawater.
Titanium (Ti): The top selection for seawater and brine use. It provides corrosion resistance to chloride corrosion, and is commonly used in marine coolers.
SMO 254: A high molybdenum content super-austenitic steel, SMO 254. It is suitable for use where 316L is insufficiently resistant to corrosion in aggressive chloride-bearing fluids, and is more cost effective than titanium.
Gasket Materials:
NBR (Nitrile): Oils, mineral lubricants and water up to 110°C.
EPDM: Excellent resistance to steam, hot water, weak acids and alkalis. Suitable for use in seawater system with temperatures up to 150°C.
FPM/FKM (Viton): Resistant to high temperatures, aggressive inorganic acids and oxidants, up to 180°C.
SME's technical support engineers take your particular media, pressure, and temperature data to recommend the best material to use for the greatest durability and performance.
OEM-Type Quality and Warranty
Choosing the right model and material is just half the job done. Replacement part shall have the same or better quality than the original. Low-quality plates can experience imprecise pressing tolerances and cause a loss of heat transfer efficiency; inferior gaskets can cause premature hardening and leaking.
SME offers plate and gasket packages per OEM-type dimensions, which guarantees a perfect fit and secure sealing. We guarantee that our project services remain good for 12 months – material strength and workmanship! This is our reflection of our ISO 9001/14001/45001 certified quality management systems, and this enables our clients to have confidence that replacements will be suitable for the harsh conditions found in shipyards and in service.
Conclusion: Trust SME for Precision Replacement
Plates/gaskets can be identified via model number, matched to media and OEM quality. SME's many years of engineering experience help with a fast decision over more than 500 projects and 1000 vessels each year. Competent personnel will quickly give answers with a responsibility to assure minimum of downtime of the vessel and that we supply you correct replacement parts for Alfa Laval, GEA and Tranter plates and gaskets. Tell SME about your need. We will try to surprise you even more.