Koaksiaalilämpö

Koaksiaalilämpö, known in English as coaxial heat or sometimes as twin-tube heat, refers to a type of heat exchanger designed for efficient thermal transfer between two concentric pipes. The inner pipe carries one fluid, while the outer pipe, surrounding the inner one, carries another fluid. The space between these two pipes, often referred to as the annulus, forms the pathway for the second fluid. This design allows for a compact and effective way to transfer heat from the inner fluid to the outer fluid, or vice versa.

The primary advantage of a koaksiaalilämpö exchanger lies in its ability to maximize surface area for heat transfer within a relatively small volume. This is achieved by utilizing the full length of both the inner and outer tubes. The flow of the two fluids can be arranged in either a parallel or counter-current configuration. Counter-current flow is generally more efficient as it maintains a more consistent temperature difference along the length of the exchanger, leading to greater heat recovery.

Koaksiaalilämpö exchangers find applications in various industrial and residential settings. They are commonly used in heating and cooling systems, such as in heat pumps, solar thermal systems, and geothermal energy applications. Their robust construction and straightforward design make them reliable for continuous operation. Maintenance is typically straightforward, often involving flushing or cleaning of the fluid pathways. The efficiency and space-saving nature of koaksiaalilämpö contribute to their popularity in modern thermal management solutions.