One of the key components that significantly influences the performance of our plate heat exchangers is the type of connection between the plates. In the following, we will take a closer look at the energy efficiency of plate heat exchangers that have been brazed with copper.
The choice of the right material and connection method in plate heat exchangers is crucial to ensure optimal heat transfer and energy efficiency. Copper brazing is a proven method that is used in many plate heat exchangers. The following advantages can be achieved with this method.
Excellent thermal conductivity
Copper is among the best thermal conductors overall, reaching a thermal conductivity of around 400 W/mK—significantly higher than that of nickel or stainless steel. This property makes copper an ideal material for plate heat exchangers, as heat is transferred particularly efficiently and with minimal losses between the individual plates. In practice, this means higher performance with a more compact design, smaller temperature differences between the media, and overall more energy-efficient operation.
High energy efficiency
By combining copper brazing with the excellent thermal conductivity of copper, plate heat exchangers operate with outstanding efficiency. The low thermal barrier between the media allows for optimal use of the applied energy, enabling high heat transfer even at low temperature differences. In practice, this results in significantly reduced energy losses, lower operating costs, and sustainable resource utilization. Especially in industrial applications, but also in private settings—such as heating systems or heat pumps—this efficiency pays off through noticeable savings and an improved environmental footprint.
Excellent corrosion resistance
Copper forms a protective oxide/patina layer on its surface, which inhibits further corrosion. In many common media (water, glycol, mild acids, or alkalis), copper, due to its brazing properties, shows high resistance, thereby increasing the service life of the heat exchanger. By comparison, nickel brazing is characterized by its excellent corrosion resistance but is more costly. Stainless steel brazing is suitable for aggressive operating conditions but requires the use of special alloys or additional maintenance measures.
Durability and low maintenance
Copper-brazed joints are extremely tight and resistant to both mechanical and thermal stresses. This minimizes leaks and ensures that the heat exchanger remains reliably sealed even with frequent start-ups, shutdowns, or pressure changes. Combined with high corrosion resistance, this results in a long service life with minimal maintenance. A copper-brazed plate heat exchanger can thus operate trouble-free for decades without the need for reworking the brazed joints.
Copper-brazed plate heat exchangers are highly efficient, durable, and low-maintenance. Thanks to excellent thermal conductivity, they deliver reliable performance with low energy consumption and cost.
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