cross flow heat exchanger with both fluids unmixed

A cross flow heat exchanger with both fluids unmixed refers to a type of heat exchanger where two fluids (hot and cold) flow perpendicular (at 90°) to each other, and neither fluid mixes internally or with the other. This configuration is common in applications like air-to-air heat recovery or automotive radiators.

Key Features:

• Cross flow: The two fluids move at right angles to each other.
• Unmixed fluids: Both the hot and cold fluids are confined to their respective flow passages by solid walls or fins, preventing any mixing.
• Heat transfer: Occurs across the solid wall or surface separating the fluids.

Construction:

Typically includes:

Enclosed channels for the second fluid (e.g., water or refrigerant) to flow inside the tubes.

Tubes or finned surfaces where one fluid (e.g., air) flows across the tubes.

Common Applications:

• Radiators in cars
• Air-conditioning systems
• Industrial HVAC systems
• Heat recovery ventilators (HRVs)

Advantages:

• No contamination between fluids
• Simple maintenance and cleaning
• Good for gases and fluids that must remain separate