Cross-flow heat exchanger

A cross-flow heat exchanger exchanges thermal energy from one airstream to another in an air handling unit (AHU). Unlike a rotary heat exchanger, a cross-flow heat exchanger does not exchange humidity and there is no risk of short-circuiting the airstreams.

A cross-flow heat exchanger is used in a cooling and ventilation system that requires heat to be transferred from one airstream to another. A cross-flow heat exchanger is made of thin metal panels, normally aluminium. The thermal energy is exchanged via the panels. A traditional cross-flow heat exchanger has a square cross-section. It has a thermal efficiency of 40-65 %. A counter-flow or dual cross-flow heat exchanger can be used if greater thermal efficiencies are required – typically up to 75-85 %.

In some types of exchanger, humid air may cool down to freezing point, forming ice. A cross-flow is typically less expensive than other types of heat exchanger. It is normally used where hygienic standards require that both airstreams are kept completely separate from one another. It is often used in heat recovery installations in large canteens, hospitals and in the food industry. Unlike a rotary heat exchanger, a cross-flow heat exchanger does not exchange humidity.