Fjärrvärmecentralen

Fjärrvärmecentralen, often referred to as a heat substation, is a key component in a district heating system. It serves as the interface between the district heating network, which distributes hot water from a central production plant, and the individual building's internal heating system. The primary function of the fjärrvärmecentralen is to transfer heat from the high-temperature, high-pressure water in the district heating network to the lower-temperature, lower-pressure water used within the building for heating and hot water.

Inside the fjärrvärmecentralen, a heat exchanger is the central piece of equipment. The hot water from the district heating network flows through one side of the heat exchanger, while the building's internal water flows through the other. Heat is transferred across the exchanger's surface without the two water circuits mixing. This separation is crucial for maintaining pressure within the building's system and preventing contamination.

Additionally, a fjärrvärmecentralen typically includes control valves, sensors, and a meter. The control valves regulate the flow of hot water from the district heating network based on the building's demand for heat, ensuring efficient energy usage. Sensors monitor temperatures and pressures, providing data for system control and optimization. The meter records the amount of heat energy consumed, forming the basis for billing the building owner. Modern fjärrvärmecentraler are often automated and can be monitored remotely by the district heating provider.