Study 30: Solutions to prevent fouling in heat recovery exchangers

Fouling of heat exchangers is a major obstacle for manufacturers, who are reluctant to invest in energy efficiency projects that incorporate waste heat recovery. This report provides an overview of the state of the art in solutions available to combat fouling of heat exchangers and improve the performance of heat recovery systems.

The report outlines the various types of fouling (particulate, corrosion-related, biological and chemical) and the technical and economic impacts of this phenomenon. It also sets out various solutions to mitigate these drawbacks. The choice of heat exchanger constitutes the first part of the solution, provided it is correctly sized. The second part of the solution requires the use of technologies that complement the heat exchanger. 

The methodology for identifying existing solutions is based on the relevant literature, supplemented by interviews with providers of innovative technological solutions in the sector.