Why do we work with polymers?

There are many reasons why we build our heat exchangers of polymers instead of traditional materials such as aluminium or stainless steel:

 

  • High performance
  • Excellent corrosion resistance
  • Low weight
  • Completely recyclable
  • High reliability and durability
  • Air-tight design
  • Competitive LCC

 

 

Polypropylene

The MonoBlock™ is made out of a polypropylene (PP) copolymer. Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic that has seen extensive use for over 25 years. Vast amounts of information relating to performance in differing environments and temperatures have been gathered in that time.

 

Propylene plastic is a polyolefin - part crystalline thermoplastic. Some of the countless uses include automobile grills, instrument panels, bottles, tubes, handles, electric insulation and on and on.

  

Advantages

Engineering studies indicate that production costs are competitive with or lower than those of metal tube and fin heat exchangers. The investment and operating costs can also be made lower with plastic designs. Low density will lead to a lower weight of the heat exchange core, which leads to that the casing can be made lighter and the costs decreased. Chemical resistance of polypropylene is similar to polyethylene, but without the inherent tendency for stress cracking in certain chemical atmospheres.

Organic and mineral deposits are less adherent to the plastic surface, which gives less fouling and that the exchangers are easier to clean. Heat exchangers made of most polymers are far more resistant to impact damage during handling and installation than metal tube and fin units. Erosion resistance is also good.

 

  • High fatigue strength

  • Mechanical properties maintained at elevated temperatures

  • Excellent dielectric properties

  • Mechanical and dielectric properties maintained in water environment

  • High resistance to chemicals

 

Environment Aspects

Most polymers are very easy to mould and the energy required to process a specific shape is low. Unlike metal units, plastic heat exchangers can be easily contoured to fit available spaces. All thermoplastics are recyclable. Good fire properties make most polymers suitable for combustion in order to recover heat energy. If the polymer is not filled and combusted under correct conditions the fumes only consists of water steam, H2O, and carbon dioxide, CO2.

 

Disadvantages

  • Becomes brittle below -40°C

  • Decomposition under UV exposure if not stabilised

  • Heat stability reduced when in contact with copper.

 

 

Toxity

Translucent PP is chemically inert and is generally recognized as being non-toxic. UV-stabilized material can be handled under normal circumstances but is not approved for food contact. Pigmented material is generally considered suitable for contact with most food products and may be used for heat transfer in the agro-industry.