Application: Plate Heat Exchange
Industry: Hotels & Hospitality
Location: Holland
Case Study
Overview
Plate heat exchangers are integral to heating and hot water systems and are commonly utilised in the hospitality industry. In this instance, a hotel in The Netherlands employed a plate heat exchanger within its hot water system, specifically on the secondary return line connected to the hot water cylinder.
Limescale accumulation in plate heat exchangers significantly hampers heat transfer efficiency, leading to increased energy consumption and potential equipment failure. The Integro™ system effectively addresses this issue by removing existing limescale deposits and preventing future build-up, thereby enhancing heat transfer and optimising water flow.
Key Issue
The hotel’s plate heat exchanger experienced a significant decline in performance due to limescale deposits. These mineral accumulations act as insulating barriers, impeding efficient heat transfer and disrupting optimal water flow. Consequently, the system faced elevated energy usage, reduced operational efficiency, increased maintenance demands, and a heightened risk of premature equipment failure.
Our Solution
To combat these challenges, the Integro™ system was installed on the secondary return line of the hot water loop. This innovative technology targets and eliminates existing limescale within the plate heat exchanger and serves as a preventive measure against future deposits. By maintaining a limescale-free environment, the system ensures sustained heat transfer efficiency and unobstructed water flow.
Results
Post-installation data from the valve regulating water input to the plate heat exchanger revealed notable improvements. Initially, the valve operated more frequently with reduced openings, compensating for diminished heat transfer caused by limescale. Over a four-month period, as the Integro™ system eradicated the limescale, the valve required fewer operations with wider openings. This adjustment indicates restored heat transfer efficiency, allowing increased water flow to reach target temperatures more rapidly.
Summary
Implementing the Integro™ system markedly enhanced the operational efficiency of the hotel’s plate heat exchanger by effectively removing limescale and preventing its recurrence. This improvement not only resulted in significant energy savings but also reduced maintenance requirements and minimised the risk of equipment breakdowns. According to the Carbon Trust, even a minimal limescale layer of 1mm can escalate energy consumption by up to 7%, with 6mm potentially causing a 40% increase. In this case, the hotel experienced an estimated 20% boost in efficiency and a corresponding reduction in energy usage.
Customer Feedback
The hotel management expressed enthusiasm regarding the benefits of the Integro™ system, noting its effectiveness in enhancing heat exchanger performance and contributing to overall operational efficiency.
What the customer had to say?
“We are excited about Sidon Water Technology’s impact on our hotel. Their advanced water treatment system has
significantly improved the efficiency of our heat exchanger. Less limescale means less maintenance, lower costs and
smoother operation. A smart investment for operational excellence.”
Contact Details
- Saltire Centre, Pentland Ct, Glenrothes KY6 2DA
- +44(0)1592 407807
- enquiries@sidonwater.com
