Laser-Welded Plate Heat Exchangers

Laser-welded plate heat exchangers are an enhanced version of the traditional gasketed plate heat exchanger design, based on the principle of joining two plates at specific locations using precision laser technology.

This structure allows for controlled fluid channels while ensuring high safety in processes where contact with gaskets is a critical concern.

Thanks to the localized welding process—which involves low heat input—laser welding technology prevents the distortion of plate geometry and maintains maximum mechanical strength.

This results in a compact and efficient heat transfer solution capable of operating reliably in both high-pressure and high-temperature applications.

Technical Specifications

Laser-welded plate heat exchangers are engineered with technical features optimized for high-performance process applications:

  • High heat transfer coefficient (U-value) for maximum efficiency in a compact design
  • High pressure resistance (higher than standard gasketed systems)
  • Wide operating temperature range
  • Low risk of leakage (thanks to critical fluids being conveyed through the welded channel)

Technical Specifications

  • Optimized flow distribution and turbulent flow regime
  • Low fouling tendency with stable long-term performance
  • Modular design allowing optimization of the number of plates according to capacity requirements

Typical Design Parameters:

  • Design Pressure: 16–40 bar (higher ratings available depending on the application)
  • Design Temperature: -20°C to +180°C (depending on the material)

Design & Material

Material selection in laser-welded heat exchangers is a critical factor for ensuring process safety and maximizing equipment service life.

Plate Materials:

  • AISI 316L → General industrial applications and mildly corrosive environments
  • 904L → Processes requiring high resistance to chlorides and aggressive chemicals
  • Titanium → Seawater and high-chloride environments
  • SMO / Duplex Stainless Steels → Applications requiring advanced corrosion resistance

Gasket Materials (for the secondary circuit):

  • EPDM
  • NBR
  • Viton (FKM)

Design Features:

  • Laser-welded sealed flow channels
  • Minimized gasket sealing surface
  • Optimized plate profile for high mechanical strength
  • Special channel geometry for uniform flow distribution

Application Areas

Documents

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