Heat Exchanger Material Selection

What this topic covers

Thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, pressure and fabrication tradeoffs.

Core thermal ideas

High thermal conductivity can reduce wall resistance, but corrosion and mechanical requirements often dominate material selection.

Water chemistry and process-fluid compatibility can limit otherwise attractive materials.

Lifecycle cost includes fouling, corrosion, inspection, repair and replacement—not just purchase price.

System tradeoffs

Thermal duty and pressure drop interact: increasing velocity can improve heat transfer while increasing pumping demand.

What to monitor

Fouling, corrosion and mechanical integrity can reduce performance long before total failure.

Lifecycle perspective

Maintenance and inspection should use equipment-specific procedures and current pressure-equipment requirements.