Rotor recuperators: principle of operation, calculation of air and heat transfer area, which recuperator is better – plate or rotary?

Maintaining comfort and energy efficiency in your home requires proper insulation and heating. The use of rotor recuperators is essential to achieving this. These cutting-edge gadgets are essential for recovering and recycling thermal energy inside buildings, which lowers energy expenses and consumption.

But how precisely do recuperators for rotors operate? They basically work on the basis of heat exchange between streams of air entering and leaving the system. The rotor recuperator absorbs the heat energy of the departing stale air and transfers it to the incoming fresh air. Significant energy savings are achieved because this process makes sure that the heat from the outgoing air is not wasted and is instead used to warm the incoming air.

The computation of air and heat transfer areas is crucial in determining the efficacy of a rotor recuperator. Both homeowners and HVAC specialists can choose the right-sized rotor recuperator for their unique requirements by precisely evaluating these variables. The amount of air being circulated, the intended temperature differential, and the thermal characteristics of the rotor’s materials are all taken into account in this computation.

One frequently asked question is which type of recuperator—a plate or rotary one—is better suited for a given application. Each variety has benefits and drawbacks. For example, plate recuperators are renowned for their simple installation and compact design. To help with heat exchange between the air streams, they use flat plates. Conversely, rotary recuperators accomplish the same thing by using a rotating wheel or cylinder. Although rotary recuperators might take up more room, they frequently have higher efficiency and work better in larger-scale HVAC systems.

To sum up, rotor recuperators are essential for improving the insulation and heating systems’ energy efficiency in both residential and commercial buildings. Through comprehension of their operational principles, accurate computations, and evaluation of the benefits associated with various varieties, homeowners and HVAC experts can make knowledgeable choices to maximize comfort and minimize energy expenditures.

Principle of Operation	Rotor recuperators use rotating heat exchangers to transfer heat between incoming and outgoing air streams.
Calculation of Air and Heat Transfer Area	The air and heat transfer area in rotor recuperators is calculated based on factors like air flow rate, temperature difference, and desired efficiency.
Plate vs. Rotary	Choosing between plate and rotary recuperators depends on factors like space availability, energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, and initial cost. Plate recuperators are more compact but may have higher pressure drops, while rotary recuperators are larger but offer lower pressure drops and potentially higher efficiency.

Corps and optional equipment

Sheet steel is used for the case’s supporting components in rotors up to 2620 mm in diameter. Typically, an alloy of zinc or aluminum is applied to steel to prolong its useful life. Use profile aluminum to reduce the rotor’s dimensions. This will speed up equipment installation, which is crucial for segment components.

The profile case’s maximum height and width are 4.2 meters. In the event that installing a more potent design is necessary, utilize the welding machine. The case is designed with open sides for ventilation, making unit maintenance easier.

Air leakage is prevented by transverse and radial seals. Zero-rigidity springs are installed on the sheet steel houses, causing pressed sliding oil seals to adhere to them.

Double springs in the profile case press against the seal around the perimeter to seal the rotor. An electric motor and belt drive its rotation. There are various kinds of connections for engines.

It is not possible to control the equipment’s power because turning on or off the electric motor is sufficient to maintain the rotor’s constant rotation. However, some engines can be adjusted via the control unit. Use a frequency converter and a block adjustment unit to accomplish this.

The advantages and disadvantages of recuperators of different types

Recuperators have the obvious benefit of saving a lot of energy when it comes to heating supply air in the winter and cooling it in the summer. Among the recuperators’ shortcomings, the following stand out:

• They create additional aerodynamic resistance on the network. Indeed, like any other element in the ventilation network, recuperators have some resistance that should be taken into account when choosing a fan. However, this resistance is not large (usually not more than 100 PA), and does not lead to a significant increase in the power of the fan.
• Rectors increase both the cost of the ventilation installation and the cost of its maintenance. Like any other solution aimed at increasing the energy efficiency of the system, recuperators cost certain money and require regular maintenance. However, the experience has repeatedly proved that the cost of heat recovery is much lower than the benefit received.
• Rotor, chamber and to a much lesser extent lamellar recuperators have one drawback, which can be critical at some objects – they can flow air flows in them. In this case, the danger is a flow of exhaust air into the supply. Such foxes are undesirable in ventilation systems of clean rooms and are not acceptable, for example, in the infectious departments of hospitals and operating rooms. The reason is the danger of flowing viruses that entered the hood from any room, into the air flow of air, followed by the distribution of the facility in all rooms. As a result, recuperators with intermediate coolant or freon recuperators are used at such objects.
• Recuperators increase the dimensions of the ventilation unit. First of all, this applies to plate recuperators, as they are air-air heat exchangers and have quite large sizes. In addition, this applies to recuperators with an intermediate coolant due to the presence of two separate heat exchangers, two lines of pipelines and binding nodes near each of the heat exchangers

Principle of operation

The heat transfer system from the exhaust flows to the supply is how the rotary recuperator operates. As fresh air enters the rotor, it warms up from the action of the plates and enters the space. You can select the ideal rotor speed using the setting, and the device operates off the network. Heat exchange happens because of the precise temperature difference between two air flows, not because they mix. The recuperator cools the hot air while heating the cold.

Installation and connection of a recovery system

Sealant, aluminum adhesive tape, and a crimping clamp are used to attach the recuperator.

The type of device will determine how to install a recuperator. The device is mounted by analogy with other system components in the majority of cases. For instance, the following tools are required to install a plate recuperator, the manufacturing process for which was previously discussed:

1. With the help of a partner, the structure rises to the ceiling. Marking under the holes for fastening steel studs is performed. Next, holes are drilled, plastic plugs are clogged and steel hairpins are screwed up.
2. The recuperator rises again under the ceiling and is fixed at the desired height. For this, a steel plate is mounted between the studs, which will hold the recuperator by weight.
3. To connect the device to the air ducts system, it will be necessary to process part of the connected flange and a squeezing clamp with a solvent. After that, the inside of the clamp is smeared with sealant and fixed to the flange. Similarly, the duct is mounted to the recuperator. The joints of the joints are glued with aluminum adhesive tape.

Video: Installation of a ventilator with a recovery system

What is different from the plate?

It is evident that rotary models outperform plastic recuperators, primarily because the latter lack an electric drive. The only things you can do with plate devices are to limit or increase the throughput and change the direction of the plates. Everything is more efficiently arranged in rotary devices. When compared to plate models, it exhibits the best energy-saving results, is more adjustable, and doesn’t freeze in the winter. The latter are therefore significantly less expensive than rotary models.

Plastic and rotary recuperator: comparison, characteristics, advantages and disadvantages

Throughout the winter, it is imperative that the living room be kept warm. Heating is used to accomplish this. Typically, heating is accomplished with hot water and metal pipes. The majority of residential buildings only have services that provide heat control over the heating of individual apartments. It is expensive and not very convenient. Being able to instantly regulate the temperature spares the user from excessive heat energy usage and enables you to set the ideal temperature for the space.

We spoke of the winter season. On the other hand, keeping the room cool during the summer is equally crucial. Open windows are useless in the summer. The room’s stuffiness is maintained because the walls heat up so much during the day that they have no time to cool down at night. Fans and air conditioners are used in this situation. There are additional methods, though, which we will discuss in the article.

Rotor recuperators

Devices used for room ventilation are called recuperators. You must ponder over the basic idea behind how these kinds of devices work. In layman’s terms, the working principle is this: the device maintains the temperature in the room by heating the cold air that enters from the outside and expels warm air through it. In hot weather, the same principle is used, but in the opposite way (warm air from the outside is cooled out of the room).

In the modern world, one common method of preserving energy in air ventilation is the use of recuperators. These devices can be classified as either rotary or plate.

As implied by the name, the rotary recuperator has a rotary heat exchanger that spins at a specific speed. The device has two channels: influx and exhaust. In the supply zone, the heat exchanger cools down after heating up in the exhaust canal. In this way, heat is transferred from the exhaust channel to the supply. The air condenses (or becomes moist) when it is heated and cools. Condensate becomes extremely cold during the winter and solidifies into ice, which collects on the heat exchanger’s walls.

The following list of benefits for the rotary recuperator:

1. Small dimensions of the device. This indicator is very important, since installing it in a relatively small room, I would not want the device to take up a lot of space, and, therefore, narrowed the space.
2. The ability to adjust the speed of rotation of the heat exchanger, which allows you to regulate heat supply.
3. High efficiency of the device.
4. Such a device is able to partially return moisture to the room, which allows you to maintain the desired humidity.

Any device’s potential drawbacks must be discussed in addition to its benefits. This is also evident in this instance. Of the drawbacks, you can identify the primary ones as follows:

1. The complexity of the design of the device. It"s no secret that the more complicated the design, the result it is much more difficult to serve it. The repair of the recuperator is quite complicated and expensive.
2. Due to the design features, contaminated air can partially enter the influx. From here it is necessary to use additional filters for optimal work.
3. Another shortcomings include the fact that the rotation of the heat exchanger requires electricity. Its consumption is small, but still it is present.

Air recuperator. Types and principle of work.

Pros and cons of rotor devices

The following are the primary benefits of rotating equipment:

• higher efficiency in winter;
• decrease in cooling costs in summer;
• complete automation of the recovery process;
• partial normalization of humidity in the room;
• lack of thawing cycles, need for condensation.

The effectiveness of these intricate devices is by far their greatest advantage. You must familiarize yourself with the numbers in order to comprehend and compare. Only 50–65% of returns are guaranteed by plate "simpletons" if rotary devices have an efficiency of 70–85%.

Although there aren’t many minor drawbacks to these expert recuperators, it’s best to address all of them at once. Listed here:

• higher price due to complexity of the design;
• a certain level of noise during work;
• possible mixing of oncoming air flows;
• the need to provide a power source;
• mobile elements – the reason why the equipment requires frequent, difficult maintenance;
• The massiveness of some models of devices, it requires the arrangement of a rather spacious ventilation chamber.

When it comes to the disadvantages, the largest and most recent drawback frequently prevents the rotary device from being installed in a home setting.

Choosing the type of recuperator

Considerations for selecting the type of recuperator include the following:

• The possibility of combining the supply and exhaust installation in one case
• Installation dimensions
• Desired effectiveness
• The possibility of small diets
• Price

Recuperators using an intermediate coolant were very common in prior years. These days, rotary is gradually replacing them. Plate cross-only recuperators are used in small supply and exhaust installations (such as those found in apartments, cottages, small offices, or retail spaces). Finally, recuperators with intermediate coolant or freon recuperators should be preferred at objects where the flow of exhaust air into the influx zone is prohibited.

Varieties of the device

In the standard performance, the working mechanism of the recuperator is divided into several segments – from 4 to 12. Such models are used to remove excess heat formed as a result of technological operations in enterprises. These are condensation rotors that activate their function when the temperature of the serviced air drops below the “dew point”. The features of condensation units include the ability of metal elements to withstand the effects of moisture. Highly temperature devices intended for work in conditions of elevated temperatures are also common. Household rotary recuperator is not designed to eliminate excess heat. Such a mechanism is used precisely for its distribution in fresh air flows. However, such models provide for the possibility of regulation of heating.

How to calculate the efficiency?

It is necessary to perform certain calculations to ascertain the recuperator’s efficiency before selecting the best model. For individuals who wish to build a recuperator on their own, these details are extremely important.

It is best to split the difference in air temperature between before and after recovery into two categories: exhaust air temperature difference and recovery temperature difference.

One needs to multiply the resultant value by 100%. Only when each recuperator component is manufactured independently can the recuperator’s heat transfer area be computed.

Methods of organizing recuperative ventilation

There are two ways to equip recovery: centrally and decentralized. Whereas ventilation flows from one room pass through the heat exchanger in the first scenario, they pass through it in the second.

Centralized complex-supply and exhaust installation

During the ventstem’s construction or capital modernization phase, the centralized system is outfitted.

The installed recuperator-equipped forced supply and exhaust installation (PVA) is chosen. The primary criterion for selection is the complex’s overall performance as determined by the calculation of the structure’s total air volume (+)

Recuperated air (PVA) allows for adequate ventilation even in homes with sealed windows. In addition, there are no drafts since the air flow is dispersed uniformly.

A monoblock-style complex supply and exhaust unit is equipped with:

• fans – round -the -clock supply of clean air and the release of jets saturated with carbon dioxide;
• heaters – preliminary heating of the influx;
• filters – delay dust and microparticles;
• recuperator – different types of installations can be used.

The power regulator, moisture level sensors, delay timer, and other features increase the functionality of certain PVA.

Monoblock models have a layer of noise-absorbing material covering their bodies, which makes the PVA operate extremely quietly. Vein execution options include suspended, vertical, and horizontal.

Production of recovery monoblock PVA: Dantex (England), Daikin (Japan), Ventts (Ukraine), and Dantherm (Denmark) have all shown their mettle.

Local units – an addition to the current ventsistem

Decentralized tributaries equipped with heat recovery are a good option for reestablishing air mass circulation within the operated room.

They either mount through the window or smash into the building’s facade. Enhancing the house’s supply ventilation is their primary responsibility.

A plate heat exchanger and a fan are provided by local recuperators. Material that absorbs noise isolates the tributary’s "sleeve." On the inside wall is where the small ventilation control unit is located.

Features of recovery-oriented decentralized marketplaces:

• Efficiency-60-96%;
• low performance-devices are designed to provide air exchange in rooms up to 20-35 square meters.m;
• affordable cost and wide selection of units, ranging from conventional wall valves to automated models with a multi -stage filtration system and the ability to adjust humidity;
• Simplicity of installation – for commissioning, no duct laying is required, you can install the wall valve yourself.

Prana (Ukraine), O.Erre (Italy), Blizzard (Germany), Ventts (Ukraine), and Aerovital (Germany) are well-known producers of local recuperators.

Important considerations when selecting a wall triber include the temperature of the pumped medium, performance, recuperator efficiency, air channel diameter, and allowable wall thickness.

In the realm of heating and insulating your home, understanding rotor recuperators is key. These devices work by reclaiming heat from the air being ventilated out of your house and transferring it to the fresh air coming in. But figuring out which one suits your needs best — the plate or rotary type — involves considering factors like their operational principles and how they calculate air and heat transfer. Each type has its pros and cons, so it"s crucial to grasp their workings to make an informed decision for your home"s comfort and efficiency.

Rotor recuperator: the advantages of the system, features of your own hands

The most promising advancement in the field of ventilation is the recuperator, which is basically a heat exchanger and allows for a significant reduction in the energy costs required for heating the air masses during the cold season. Because of the technical and thermal jargon, the rotary recuperator in ventilation technical systems is usually better referred to as the regenerator because thermal energy is transmitted through the alternate contact of standard heat exchange surfaces with different kinds of coolants.

Currently, the second type of heat exchanger utilized in supply and exhaust ventilation systems are rotor air recuperators.

The following are the primary benefits of rotary supply installations:

• high efficiency. Due to the lack of freezing of the efficiency of the rotary recuperator, it can reach 65-85%;
• the return of not only thermal energy, however, and moisture, which allows you to do without the additional use of humidifiers of the incoming air;
• the absence of thawing cycles and the need for the organization of the discharge of condensed fluid;
• a significant decrease in cooling costs in the summer period;
• the ability to adjust the overall intensity and speed of rotation rotation.

The following are some of the drawbacks of rotary heat exchangers:

• The transfer of exhaust air flows to the influx – the alternity of the passage of the exhaust and supply air through the microcanals of the rotor leads to the flow of a certain volume of exhaust air. To maximally reduce the occurrence of such situations, special devices are installed on the rotor recuperators of heat, allowing you to immediately send a purge air flow to the extract. These influences lead to a decrease in the general level of efficiency, since, thus, part of the previously stored thermal energy is lost;
• a complex design – a rotary heat exchanger, as a rule, includes many components, which, in turn, increases the number of necessary stages of maintenance and the probability of a breakdown of the device as a whole;
• the presence of mobile parts and the need to consume electricity – given the electric power supply of the rotor drive, it is necessary to make the appropriate projection for subsequent operation.

Types and main characteristics of rotor -sample recovers

The rotary heat exchanger is a small device of a cylindrical shape, densely filled with longitudinal layers of corrugated steel, which is equipped with ventilation installations on the basis of an axial direction. The principle and mechanism of operation of the operation of rotary equipment are based on the rotational movements of the drum of the recuperator, which passes the initially warm and then cold air. In this case, sequential heating and cooling of the rotor occurs, allowing the transfer of part of the heat with progressive cold air flows. A similar type of thermal utilizer is considered the most productive and effective, however, despite this, it is quite bulky. In this regard, rotary installations are often used at objects with a large area and with the possibility of ventilation location in spacious cells.

Several recuperator modifications are made today:

• Standard performance of the mechanism – involves the division of the regenerator into 4, 6, 8 or 12 sector parts. Such recuperators are used to remove the excessive heat of the exhaust air and are representatives of condensation rotors that carry moisture in cases where the exhaust air masses are below the temperature, the so -called “dew point”. In this case, the matrix of the main rotor is wound from aluminum resistant to the effects of sea water;
• High -temperature – such types of heat exchangers are designed to remove the apparent heat of air flows with a temperature reaching values + 250 degrees;
• Entalpine – are used to remove complete thermal energy with additional implementation of moisture transmission.

Additionally, the supply installation with a rotary recuperator is separated into a horizontal and vertical rotor based on the constructive execution.

Features of the rotary device’s independent manufacturing

First, a specific calculation of the rotary recuperator is required for the setup of the supply rotor installation. This calculation entails figuring out the equipment’s overall performance and payback period. The following scheme determines the calculation:

Q = c (specific heat capacity of air) x m (mass of heated air) x dt (temperature difference)

Q/efficiency calorifier = Ek

E is equal to EC times 24 hours a day, 30 days a month, and 7 heating months.

Ratlek. = E X efficiency throughout the recovery system’s consumption

Money-equivalent savings = RELEK x Cost = 1 kW/email.energy

• The payback period of the energy efficiency of the installation using a rotary recuperator (T):

T is the rotary recuperator’s cost / the financial savings

To build a rotary recuperator by hand, you should follow these fundamental guidelines:

• the correct determination of the size of the future ventilation device;
• selection of materials and tools;
• Equipping the structure with fasteners.

Aluminum rotating rotors and a steel recuperator casing make for an air duct connection that is more efficient. The cuneiform transmission must be used to bring the rotor into operation. In order to operate recuperators at extremely high temperatures, the engine is placed externally to the heat exchanger casing, and the belt is switched out for a chain.

The rotary recuperator must attempt to be equipped with a specialized sensor inside the unit that enables prompt correction of pressure drops in order to prevent freezing.

A silicone sealant is applied to all the cracks in the rotary recuperator, which is equipped with mineral wool or fiberglass to ensure appropriate sound insulation of the operating device.

While maintaining a functional ventilation system, the use of such a basic ventilation structure will result in a significant reduction in the cost of heating the premises during the winter.

The benefits of the rotary recuperator system and your own manufacturing features Select a recovery device? Be mindful of how the rotary recuperator is installed. There are several benefits to this system. Such as great efficiency, the capacity to modify the overall intensity, and… with the device’s independent manufacture, it is required to… in order to keep the rotary recuperator from freezing.

Determination of performance

The three most crucial variables for the recuperator as part of ventilation are the above aerodynamic resistance, the allowable duct, and efficiency, which are expressed in relation to the total amount of energy in the air at the current temperature delta and the returned heat. This mindset is unstable because the recuperator operates more effectively the colder the air supply is, and these changes do not depend linearly on one another. As a result, it is crucial to pay attention to the diagrams showing how the primary characteristics vary based on different circumstances.

Also see: Correct light switch installation

• Q – the throughput of the ventilator, m 3 /h;
• S is the cross -sectional area of the channel, in m 2;
• V – flow rate, m/s.

• KT – the coefficient of the effectiveness of the recuperator in temperature;
• T1 – outdoor temperature, ° C;
• T2 – air temperature in the room, ° C;
• T3 – temperature of the supply air, ° C.

The ventilation system’s parameters establish the first criterion, which is the duct’s allowable value. The air exchange, of course, cannot be less than the standards set by SNiP, which are 3 m 3 /h · m 2 or 30 m 3 /h per person with a security rate of less than 20 m 3 an individual. Additionally, there should be at least 0.35 air exchanges per hour overall. In the event that the ventilation system’s current parameters are below average, the recuperator is chosen in compliance with regulatory standards, and the ventilation system is then completed.

The installation of a muffler reduces excessive noise if the recuperator’s forced air movement performance surpasses the ventilation system’s throughput by more than 50%. It’s important to keep in mind that the fan’s performance in the supply channel is higher than that in the exhaust, and the difference needs to be chosen based on the quantity of extra natural air removal points.

Where they are sold and how much they cost?

Rotor recuperators are available for purchase at specialty stores that sell climate control and ventilation equipment. The simplest method is to place an order with specialized businesses that handle ventilation system design and installation rather than choosing the product yourself.

Circuit of air current across a recuperator

After determining which option is best for you, they will install the necessary equipment. At the start of 2018, the product’s average cost was as follows (for a few models, for instance):

• RR 500×250 – 209,000 rubles;
• RR 1000×500 – 363 050 rubles;
• RR 800×500 – 361 000 rubles;
• RR 700×400 – 320,000 rubles;
• RR 600×300 – 253,000 rubles;
• RR 500×250 – 209,000 rubles;
• RR 400×200 – 208,000 rubles.

Although the lesson is very complex and achieving "store characteristics" is nearly impossible, you can attempt to make a recuperator by hand.

How to calculate?

It is possible to manually calculate the device’s payback period and overall efficiency, or, to put it another way, performance. This scheme should be followed when performing the calculation:

• The required amount of heat (parameter q): Q = C (parameter of the specific heat capacity of the air) * m (the mass parameter of heated air) * DT (temperature difference parameter);
• Electric energy consumption by a caloriece (EK parameter): EK = Q/ PPD of the califfer;
• year -round costs for electric energy (parameter E): E = EK * 24 (day) * 30 (days of the month) * 7 (heating months);
• The volume of potential savings in the amount of electrical energy (REL parameter): RAL = E * efficiency at the cost of the recovery system, as a result, the savings are RAL * cost 1 kW/electric energy;
• Installation payback periods: T (parameter of the cost of the apparatus) / E (saving parameter expressed in monetary equivalent).

As you can see, these computations can be performed on their own without the need for outside consulting from specialized businesses (which incurs additional costs).

What does the rotary recuperator look like: photo

The appearance and circuit of the air flow through the rotating retractor are depicted in the picture below.

Rector for a private house: types and characteristics

Recoverators for exhaust and supply can have a variety of design elements. The seller-consultant in any heat engineering device specialty store will assist in selecting the best solution.

Head of the household

These kinds of devices exist:

• plate;
• rotary;
• roof;
• Recirculation water.

Whether it’s an apartment, a big mansion, or a country house, they’re all made to put out a good atmosphere in the space.

Loaded

Is the most popular kind because of its affordable price, low cost, and good performance. This kind of recuperator consists of stationary metal plates that have a high specific heat capacity and a light weight. The plates are gathered in odd cassettes that have a faint hive-like appearance. The apparatus containing cassettes is subjected to heat or cold depending on the season, as ambient air passes through its box. Condensation generated during operation is redirected via a drainage border or channel that is specifically designed for that purpose.

The lamellar recoverer’s supply and exhaust device installation

In addition to the aforementioned benefits, there is one disadvantage to the system: ice buildup inside the box, which is particularly noticeable during the fall and winter months.

Rotary

Because of the blades, this kind of recuperator causes the air stream to enter and exit. Depending on the model, the heating system has one or two drive rotors. From the outside, the installation resembles a drum-equipped cylindrical barrel. The atmospheric mass is fenced as the air is pumped out of the room and heated in the cylindrical box.

Benefits of this apparatus:

• improved efficiency;
• increased efficiency;
• lack of condensate, and, consequently, the diverting gutters;
• lack of ice;

• does not drain air, which does not require additional moisture;
• adjustment of the amount of feed and air intake due to the speed of rotation of the blades.

However, there are drawbacks as well:

• increased electricity consumption;
• rotating elements wear out faster than motionless;
• the need for additional hoods to prevent possible mixing of incoming and outgoing air masses.

The recuperator is connected to the supply and exhaust ventilation systems.

Roof

Large air masses are processed by this recuperator. The rationale behind its utilization can be attributed to a sizable estate or other residential or commercial properties. Although the plate unit operates on a different principle from the roof in smaller sizes, the principles are essentially the same. The device’s ease of installation, low maintenance costs, and low operating costs made it an essential component of production facilities, repair shops, and retail stores’ ventilation systems. When a recuperator like this is installed on the roof, noise and sounds usually cannot enter the room.

Glycolic recuperator

Rotating heating components and plate quality are combined in glycolic (or recirculation) regenerative machinery. The use of an intermediate coolant is the primary distinction between it and the earlier models. The latter is a water-glycole solution made of distilled water diluted with either ethylene or propylene glycol. Because of its high heat capacity, the mixture can dissipate a lot of heat and continues to function at very low temperatures. It is feasible to use antifreeze in place of the recommended coolant in extremely cold weather. With the equipment, you can operate multiple ventilation ducts, sleeves, or hoods at once.

Comparison with plate models

Compared to rotary units, the plate models do not have a drive and carry out heat transfer in autonomous mode. The user can manually change the direction of accumulating plates only to change the throughput of the mechanism. From this we can draw conclusions about the pros and cons of both systems. But first it is worth saying about the common advantages. Both rotary and plate recuperator are small in size and sufficient performance. This eliminates the need to use additional devices, including power. If we talk about the differences, then the rotary mechanism is more flexible in adjustments, is relieved of the risk of freezing in winter and energy efficient. But at the same time, it has a more complex device and provides for a certain share of mixing spent streams and fresh air.

How to independently make a tubular coaxial recuperator

Aluminum tube and plastic pipe combined to create a tubular recuperator

The working principle of a tubular recuperator is comparable to that of a plate type. Similar to the last instance, you can put it together by hand if you know how to operate a system power tool.

Advantages and disadvantages of the structure

The following are some benefits of an air recovery device based on tubes:

• simple design without the use of moving parts;
• simple installation and quick maintenance during operation;
• The efficiency of the recuperator is up to 65–70%, depending on the conditions;
• Small size and low noise level.

One of the major drawbacks, similar to the plate river, is the possibility of freezing during the winter. This disrupts the natural level of traction and makes it difficult for fresh air to enter the space. An electric or water calorifier needs to be added to the system in order to stop this.

Materials for the manufacture of the device

Components needed to make a tubular recuperator

What you’ll need to assemble a tubular recuperator is:

• aluminum or steel hollow tubes with a diameter of 3-5 mm;
• plastic channel for ventilation;
• plastic connector for the duct;
• galvanized metal or plastic size 50 × 50 cm;
• silicone sealant.

Each connector and section of the air duct are chosen separately. ideal if the section’s diameter matches that of the ventilation system’s duct. Fans can be installed on the influx and air removal if needed.

Production process

Aluminum workpieces and tubes used in the heat exchanger’s construction

An electric drill, a metal hacksaw, a caliper, roulette, and a pencil are needed to manufacture the recuperator. The following steps are involved in the production of a tubular recuperator:

1. A plastic channel is adjusted along the length. At the same time, it is taken into account that the length of the working elements will be 15–20 cm shorter than the length of the case itself. At the end of the pipe, plastic connector is put on.
2. The internal section of the plastic channel is measured using a caliper. Further, two blanks are cut out of plastic or metal taking into account the measured section. In the workpiece, holes are drilled with a cross section equal to the outer diameter of the metal tube.
3. According to the length of the case, trimming of steel tubes is performed. The number of tubes is equal to the number of holes in the workpiece. For assembly, you will need to insert the pipe between the two blanks. The gap between the hole and the tube is filled with sealant or epoxy glue.
4. After assembling the tubular heat exchanger, the structure is placed in a plastic case. The joint between the workpiece and the body is sealed with epoxy glue. After drying, the structure is ready for installation.

Using channel products that are dressed at one of the recuperator’s mounting ends is preferable as a fan. All that is needed to install the above-described design is a crimp clamp, sealant, and the connector of the relevant section.

Video: DIY pipe recuperator

For comfort and energy efficiency, selecting the appropriate heating and insulation system for your house is essential. To assist you in making an informed choice, we have examined the fundamentals of rotor recuperators and contrasted plate and rotary designs in this post.

An inventive method for heat recovery in ventilation systems is provided by rotary recuperators. They effectively transfer heat between the incoming and outgoing air streams via revolving heat exchangers. This procedure aids in preserving a comfortable interior temperature and lowering energy usage.

There are a number of considerations to make when deciding between plate and rotary recuperators. Plate recuperators are renowned for being easy to use and dependable. They are made up of compactly arranged flat plates that allow for easy heat exchange. Conversely, heat is transferred by revolving wheels or drums in rotary recuperators. Rotating designs have the potential to be more efficient under some circumstances, but they can also be more complicated and need constant upkeep.

To ascertain a recuperator’s efficacy, the air and heat transfer area must be calculated. The sizing process is influenced by variables like material properties, temperature differential, and airflow rate. Compared to rotary models, plate recuperators usually have a larger surface area for heat exchange, which can have an impact on how well they function in various situations.

In summary, there are benefits and drawbacks to both plate and rotary recuperators. Plate designs are simple and dependable, which makes them appropriate for a wide range of uses. Although rotary recuperators are more efficient, they may need more upkeep and careful sizing. In the end, the decision is based on your preferences, financial situation, and unique needs. Regardless of the option you select, a well-made insulation and heating system is essential to building a cozy and energy-efficient home.

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