Free Flow PHEs are suitable for dirty or particle-containing fluids, such as fruit pulp and juice with fibers, sugar syrup and molasses, wastewater and sludge, pulp and paper stock, biogas digestate, slurry with soft solids, and other high-viscosity liquids.

Free Flow prioritizes anti-clogging performance, while standard PHE maximizes compact heat transfer.

Channel gap determines allowable particle size. Typical guidance: 5 mm gap → particles up to ~3–4 mm; 8 mm gap → up to ~6 mm; 10–12 mm gap → soft solids and fibrous materials. Hard or abrasive particles require reinforcement and wear evaluation.

Typical handling: 2–5% suspended solids for standard cases; up to ~8–10% soft organic solids depending on viscosity and fiber behavior. Mineral solids or sand significantly increase wear and must be evaluated carefully.

Higher viscosity fluids require larger channel gaps, reduced flow velocity, increased heat transfer area, and optimized port diameter. For fluids above ~500 cP, calculations must account for reduced turbulence and heat transfer coefficient.

Compared to narrow-gap high-chevron plates, heat transfer coefficient may be slightly lower, but pressure drop is reduced and fouling resistance is significantly improved. In real dirty-service operation, overall long-term performance is often superior.

Common materials include 304 stainless steel, 316L stainless steel, titanium, SMO 254, and Hastelloy. Selection depends on chloride concentration, pH, temperature, and corrosion risk.

For gasketed Free Flow PHE, typical design pressure is 10–16 bar and maximum temperature up to ~180°C (depending on gasket). Higher pressure designs require reinforced frames and should be confirmed by model specification.

Cleaning methods include CIP (clean-in-place), manual opening with high-pressure washing, and chemical cleaning. Pressure drop monitoring is a primary indicator for when cleaning is needed.

Common industries include food & beverage, sugar, pulp & paper, wastewater treatment, biogas processing, and chemical processing where fouling or fibers are present.

Yes. Options may include mixed plate packs (Free Flow + standard plates), reinforced frame, special port sizes, double gasket systems, and hybrid configurations to improve application flexibility.