Plate and frame
Gasketed plate heat exchangers: high-capacity heating with a long service life
Gasketed plate heat exchangers are one of the most effective heat separation solutions for high-capacity (from ~150 kW to several MW) heating, domestic hot water (DHW) preparation and cooling systems. Unlike brazed units, they have gaskets between the plates, so you can open the frame, clean or replace the plates - an ideal choice for systems with a fouling risk (aggressive water, process lines) and where a long service life matters.
How they differ from brazed heat exchangers
- Maintenance: Gasketed units can be opened - gaskets and plates are replaced. Brazed units cannot be opened (CIP cleaning only).
- Capacity: Gasketed units suit ~150 kW to several MW. Brazed units - usually up to ~500 kW.
- Pressure / T: Gasketed PN 10-16 (special versions up to PN 25), T up to +200 °C. Brazed - PN 25-30 and above.
- Investment: Gasketed units cost more at the start, but have a longer service life thanks to the possibility of maintenance.
When to choose gasketed
- Larger heat substations (apartment buildings, commercial sites with capacity over 150 kW)
- DHW systems at risk of scaling or organic deposits
- Industrial processes requiring periodic mechanical plate maintenance
- Where a long service life matters (20+ years with periodic maintenance)
In the Amegata.lt range
We have a range of gasketed plate heat exchangers from Alfa Laval (Sweden), Kelvion (Germany) and Hexonic A1L / A1S / A3S (Poland) - from 150 kW to industrial 5+ MW systems. Competitive B2B pricing + a free sizing calculation through the manufacturer's software (Alfa Laval CAS, Kelvion GKS).
Common questions
How often should the gaskets be replaced?
Standard EPDM gaskets (heating water, PN 16, T up to +150 °C) last 8-12 years. NBR (for petroleum products) - 5-8 years. It is recommended to replace all gaskets each time the unit is opened.
Can the heat exchanger be expanded by adding plates?
Yes - this is one of the main advantages. The frame often has a 10-20% reserve for adding plates. Consult the manufacturer's calculation software.
Is it suitable for steam?
Standard gaskets (EPDM, NBR) cannot withstand steam. For steam lines - special composite gaskets or fully welded heat exchangers (Alfa Laval AlfaWide, Kelvion all-welded).
What margin should be allowed for the capacity in a real calculation?
The manufacturer's catalogue capacities (kW) are stated for ideal conditions. For the real design requirement, calculate through Alfa Laval CAS or turn to Amegata.lt B2B technical consultation - state the flow rate, supply/return T and Δp limits.