Alfa Laval Aalborg Header-Coil A/S, a collaboration between heat exchanger manufacturers Alfa Laval and Aalborg CSP, has introduced its inaugural product in the realm of energy storage. The header-and-coil heat exchanger is specifically engineered for large-scale thermal energy storage systems, boasting high thermal efficiency, a compact design, and exceptional reliability under cyclic operating conditions.
The design emphasises cyclic operation with a fully welded header-and-coil configuration that features a distinctive serpentine tube arrangement, maximising the heat transfer surface while maintaining a compact footprint. This innovative structure allows the serpentine tubes to flex and accommodate thermal expansion during cyclic operation, ensuring long-term reliable performance.
These header-and-coil heat exchangers are adept at managing high temperatures and pressures, making them particularly suitable for thermal energy storage systems that operate intermittently, such as those based on molten salt.
Alasdair MacIver, head of energy storage at Alfa Laval, highlighted the advantages of this technology: “With the header-and-coil technology, we are introducing a solution that addresses the specific challenges of thermal energy storage. The fluctuating nature of renewable energy sources like wind and solar often leads to fatigue issues in conventional heat exchangers. Our unique design overcomes this, offering high capacity, compact size, and unmatched reliability. We are convinced it will be a valuable asset for system builders developing next-generation sustainable energy infrastructure.”
The header-and-coil heat exchangers can serve multiple functions, including economisers, evaporators, superheaters, and reheaters. They are available as standalone components or as complete, fully customised steam generation systems, which encompass all necessary heat exchangers, a steam drum, and piping. These systems, based on natural circulation, ensure stable operation while minimising operational and capital expenditures.
For more information about the Alfa Laval Aalborg header-and-coil heat exchangers, visit www.alfalaval.com/header-and-coil.
For further inquiries, please contact Anne Baymont, product portfolio manager, at anne.baymont@alfalaval.com.
