An experimental investigation of the thermal efficiency and pressure drop for counterflow heat exchangers intended for recuperator

Abstract

Ventilation systems are responsible for a large part of total energy consumption in operated buildings. The possibility of significant energy savings has been noticed when using mechanical ventilation. In order to decrease energy consumption, devices called recuperators are used and their main element responsible for heat recovery is the heat exchanger. In this work, thermal efficiency and pressure drop at individual heat exchangers designed for recuperators were examined. The results of the analysis and the influence of parameters on the device operation are presented. Finally, the thermal efficiency of the entire unit was evaluated. The results were compared and the phenomena occurring in the device itself affecting the differences in calculated efficiency were described.