What is Thermic fluid heater?
A thermic fluid heater, also known as a thermal oil heater or hot oil heater, is used to heat a process fluid to a specific temperature using thermal energy. It operates by circulating a heat transfer fluid, commonly referred to as a thermic fluid or thermal oil, through a closed-loop system.
What is meant by heat transfer fluid in Thermic fluid heaters?
A specialized heat transfer fluid, often a mineral-based or synthetic oil, is used as the medium to transfer heat. It has high thermal stability and a high boiling point to ensure efficient heat transfer and safe operation at elevated temperatures.
What type of combustion chamber is used in Thermic fluid heaters? & how heat generation starts?
A thermic fluid heater is equipped with a combustion system, which can use various fuels such as natural gas, diesel, heavy oil, coal, or biomass. The fuel is burned in a burner assembly to generate heat.
How does heat exchanger takes role in Thermic fluid heaters?
The heat exchanger is the core component of a thermic fluid heater. It consists of a coil or tube bundle immersed in the thermic fluid. The hot combustion gases pass through the coil, transferring their heat to the fluid. This process raises the temperature of the thermic fluid.
The heat generated from the combustion process is transferred to the thermic fluid. The hot flue gases and combustion products flow over the surface of a coil or heat exchanger immersed in the furnace. The coil or heat exchanger is filled with the thermic fluid, which absorbs the heat from the hot gases.
How does circulation of thermic fluid happens in Thermic fluid heaters?
The thermic fluid, now heated, circulates through the coil or heat exchanger via a circulation pump. The pump provides the necessary pressure to move the fluid through the system.
How does heat is being utilized from Thermic fluid?
The heated thermic fluid carries the absorbed heat to the point of application or process equipment where heat is required. This could be reactors, dryers, presses, or any other heat-consuming equipment.
At the point of application, the thermic fluid transfers its heat to the process equipment or medium, raising its temperature as needed. The thermic fluid's temperature decreases as it gives up its heat energy to the process.
The cooled thermic fluid returns to the heater through a separate return line. In the heater, the thermic fluid is reheated by passing through the heat exchanger or coil, where it once again absorbs heat from the combustion process.
What is the function of expansion tank in Thermic fluid heaters?
A thermic fluid heater system typically includes an expansion tank to accommodate the expansion and contraction of the thermic fluid as it is heated and cooled during operation. It helps maintain the desired fluid volume and prevents excessive pressure build-up in the system.
What is the significance of Control system in Thermic fluid heaters?
A control system is employed to regulate the heating process, including temperature control, fuel supply, and safety features. It ensures precise temperature control and monitors various parameters to maintain safe and efficient operation.
The temperature of the thermic fluid is controlled and maintained within a desired range using temperature control systems. The system may include temperature sensors, control valves, burner modulation, and circulation pump speed control to regulate the fluid temperature.
What are the various applications of Thermic fluid heaters?
Thermic fluid heaters found applications in chemical, pharmaceutical, textile, food processing, and oil and gas.
What are the main advantages of Thermic fluid heaters?
- High temperature accuracy,
- Efficient heat transfer,
- Versatility in fuel options, and the
- Ability to provide uniform heating over large areas.
