AB BL26C-10D Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger User Manual

1. Introdución

This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient installation, operation, and maintenance of your AB BL26C-10D Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger. This unit is designed for efficient heat transfer in various water-to-water applications.

The BL26C-10D model features 10 brazed plates, measuring 5 inches by 12 inches, with 1 1/4 inch MPT connections. It is constructed from high-quality 316L stainless steel, brazed with 99.9% copper, ensuring durability, resistance to leakage, and the ability to withstand high pressure and temperature.

AB BL26C-10D Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger, front view with specifications label. — Figura 1: Fronte view of the AB BL26C-10D Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger, displaying its specifications label.

2. Especificacións do produto

Especificación	Detalle
Fabricante	AB
Número de modelo	BL26C-10D
Número de peza	BL26C-10D
Peso do elemento	7.39 libras
Dimensións do produto	12 x 5 x 1.25 polgadas
Número de placas	10
Material	99.9% Copper, Stainless Steel 316L
Tipo de conexión	1 1/4" MPT (Male Pipe Thread)
Máx. Presión de operación	435 PSI
Máx. Temperatura de funcionamento	482 °F
Capacidade BTU	110,000 - 280,000 BTU/hr (application dependent)

Close-up of the heat exchanger highlighting 316 stainless steel and copper brazing, with dimensions and 1 1/4 inch NPT thread detail. — Figura 2: detallada view of the heat exchanger showing dimensions and connection threads.

3. Aplicacións

The AB BL26C-10D Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger is versatile and suitable for a wide range of heat transfer applications, including but not limited to:

Domestic Water Heating
Sistemas de calefacción por piso
Sistemas de fusión de neve
District or Zone Heating Systems
Outdoor Wood Furnaces
Hydraulic and Lube Oil Coolers
Radiator Heating
Calefacción hidrónica
Solar Heating Systems
Wood Boiler Systems
Homebrew Chillers
HVAC Heating & Cooling

Image showing various applications for the heat exchanger, including homebrew chiller, water heating, central heating, floor heating, driveway snow melting, radiator heating, solar heating, and HVAC heating & cooling. — Figure 3: Visual representation of multiple applications for the heat exchanger.

4. Configuración e instalación

Proper installation is crucial for the optimal performance and longevity of your heat exchanger. Due to the specialized nature of hydronic systems, professional installation by a qualified technician is highly recommended.

4.1. Connection Points

The heat exchanger features 1 1/4 inch MPT (Male Pipe Thread) connections. Ensure all connections are properly sealed to prevent leaks. The smooth thread design facilitates an easy and flexible hookup.

4.2. Dirección do fluxo

For optimal heat transfer, fluids should typically flow in a counter-current direction. Consult the port labels (Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4) on the unit and your system design for correct fluid routing.

4.3. System Sizing

Refer to the Hydronic Duty Tables provided by the manufacturer for appropriate sizing based on your specific application (e.g., domestic hot water, floor heating, snow melting) and desired BTU output. These tables provide guidance on boiler flow, system flow, and kBtuh/hr for various models.

Hydronic Duty Table for BL26C series heat exchangers, showing performance data for domestic hot water, floor heating, and snow melting. — Figure 4: Hydronic Duty Table for BL26C models, assisting with system sizing.

5. Principios de funcionamento

The brazed plate heat exchanger facilitates efficient heat transfer between two fluids without direct mixing. Hot fluid enters one set of channels, and cold fluid enters an alternating set of channels. Heat is transferred across the thin, corrugated stainless steel plates.

5.1. Heat Exchange Mechanism

The unit utilizes an asymmetric fish bone plate design. This design creates strong turbulences within the fluid flow, which significantly enhances the heat transfer performance and efficiency. A heat recovery rate of over 90% can be achieved.

Diagram illustrating the heat exchange principle with cold water in, hot water in, and warm water out. — Figure 5: Diagram illustrating the heat exchange principle.

Video 1: An animated demonstration of the internal workings and heat transfer process within a 316L Stainless Steel Plate Heat Exchanger.

6. Mantemento

Brazed plate heat exchangers are generally low-maintenance devices due to their robust construction and sealed design. However, periodic checks are recommended to ensure continued optimal performance.

Inspección visual: Regularly inspect the exterior of the unit for any signs of external leakage, corrosion, or physical damage.
Monitorización de presión: Monitor system pressures to ensure they remain within the specified operating limits (Max. 435 PSI).
Monitorización de temperatura: Verify that operating temperatures do not exceed the maximum specified temperature (Max. 482°F).
Calidade do fluído: Maintain good fluid quality in both circuits to prevent fouling or scaling, which can reduce efficiency over time.
Limpeza: If a significant drop in performance is observed, chemical cleaning may be necessary. Consult a professional for appropriate cleaning procedures to avoid damaging the unit.

7 Solución de problemas

This section provides general guidance for common issues. For complex problems, contact a qualified technician.

Problema	Causa posible	Solución
Reduced Heat Transfer Efficiency	Insufficient flow rate in one or both circuits Fouling or scaling inside the heat exchanger Aire atrapado no sistema Incorrect fluid temperatures	Check pump operation and flow rates Consider chemical cleaning (professional service recommended) Purgar o aire do sistema Verify boiler/heat source output and system design temperatures
External Leaks	Loose pipe connections Damaged brazing (rare)	Tighten pipe connections (do not overtighten) Inspect for visible damage; if brazing is compromised, unit replacement may be necessary
Ruídos pouco comúns	Aire no sistema Bomba de cavitación Vibrations from connected piping	Purgar o aire do sistema Check pump for proper operation and sizing Secure piping to reduce vibrations

8. Garantía e soporte

Your AB BL26C-10D Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger comes with a 1 ano de garantía covering manufacturer defects. We are committed to providing 100% satisfaction service and premium quality products.

If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your product, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly for assistance. Ensure you have your model number (BL26C-10D) and purchase details available when contacting support.