Natural sources with a big impact
Lakes, rivers, and seawater harbor great potential as a heat source for large industrial heat pumps. The natural temperature of the water is raised to a useful level by a heat pump and can then be used for district heating grids or industrial processes. This makes surface water a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels and a key component in decarbonization efforts.
Ensuring efficiency and managing risks
To ensure economical and dependable operation, focusing on the heat pump alone is not enough. Rather, it is crucial that the entire water-carrying system is managed reliably. A wide range of factors need to be taken into account when using surface water: temperature, flow rate, water quality, seasonal fluctuations, heat exchanger technology, and integration into existing infrastructures. The properties of the water, in particular, place high demands on evaporators and heat exchangers. Microfouling and macrofouling can significantly impair the efficiency and availability of the plant depending on the water quality and seasonal influences. Typical risks include biofouling, sedimentation, and crystallization, as well as algae, foliage, plastic waste, and other large items of debris. In addition, corrosion can hamper operational reliability and shorten the service life of the components.
Stable performance through clean systems
TAPROGGE Systems
We support planners and operators using process engineering solutions that are specially designed and engineered for the requirements of large industrial heat pumps. The basis for this is our experience from more than 18,000 systems installed worldwide, including 100 that are used in industrial heat pumps. The aim is to tackle fouling early, keep heat transfer surfaces clean, and reliably prevent performance losses.
Below are some examples of the equipment we use
Water intake systems
Our TAPIS® Single-Stage Water Intake can be backwashed with compressed air and reliably protects downstream pumps from macrofouling and debris.
Backwashable filters
These filters are available in different series and protect downstream components such as evaporators and heat exchangers from macrofouling and clogging as a prefiltration solution.
Taprogge Systems
These are equipped with backwashable strainers and reliably prevent microfouling in evaporator and heat exchanger tubes. The aim is to keep the heat transfer coefficient of the heat exchanger as close as possible to the initial value using Taprogge Cleaning Balls that are specially tailored to the tube type and operating conditions.
Finding the right solution together
It is crucial to customize the water intake, filtration, and cleaning processes on a case-by-case basis in order to utilize surface water efficiently and sustainably as a heat source. This improves cost-effectiveness, operational reliability, and resource efficiency in the long run. We use our experience in the analysis and optimization of heat transfer systems to develop solutions that suit your specific application. In the process, we take into account risks such as micro- and macrofouling, choice of material, heat exchanger design, and suitable cleaning strategies.
CONTACT
Questions?
We are all ears!
To leverage the full potential of heat recovery from surface water, benefit from the expertise of engineers who not only know the technologies and materials but also develop solutions that are tailored to your specific needs. Reach out to us and we will be happy to support you.
Customized solutions
- Continuous cleaning of heat exchanger tubes without operational interruptions
- Environmentally friendly, chemical-free methods
- Use in straight-tube and U-tube heat exchangers
- Reducing seasonal risks by preventing icing during winter operation
- Materials adapted to the process conditions, for example corrosion-resistant materials
