Liquid to liquid - WCAC Twin Core Heat Exchangers

Liquid-to-Liquid Water-Cooled Aftercoolers (WCAC) with Twin Core Heat Exchangers play a critical role in the hydraulic industry by efficiently transferring heat between two liquid systems. Here’s an overview of their function and benefits:

How They Work

Hydraulic Heat Exchange Process

In hydraulic systems, fluids (typically oil or hydraulic fluid) can become extremely hot during operation. A WCAC twin-core heat exchanger cools this hydraulic fluid by transferring heat to a secondary liquid coolant, usually water or a water-glycol mixture.

Twin-Core Design

The twin-core configuration provides a two-stage cooling system for increased heat transfer capacity. Each core has a series of tubes or plates where the hydraulic fluid and coolant flow in opposite directions, enhancing the efficiency of heat exchange due to counterflow dynamics.

Flow Paths

The hot hydraulic fluid enters one side of the exchanger, while coolant flows in a separate but adjacent channel. The large surface area in the twin-core design ensures that heat is rapidly transferred from the hydraulic fluid to the coolant without direct contact between the two liquids.

Temperature Control

Thermostatic controls or automated systems may regulate the flow of the coolant to maintain optimal operating temperatures. This protects sensitive hydraulic components from overheating and reduces wear and energy loss.

Benefits in Hydraulic Applications

Improved System Efficiency: By keeping hydraulic fluids at optimal temperatures, WCAC heat exchangers ensure consistent viscosity and better overall system performance.

Extended Equipment Lifespan: Effective cooling prevents thermal degradation of hydraulic fluids and wear on seals, pumps, and valves.

Compact and High-Capacity Design: The twin-core structure provides a large cooling capacity within a relatively compact footprint, making it suitable for space-constrained industrial machinery.

Energy Savings: Efficient cooling systems reduce the need for additional mechanical cooling, lowering energy consumption and operational costs.

Applications in the Hydraulic Industry

Mobile Hydraulics: Heavy machinery like excavators and loaders use WCAC systems to cool hydraulic oil.

Industrial Presses: Hydraulic presses generate substantial heat, making efficient heat exchangers essential.

Marine Hydraulics: Shipboard hydraulic systems benefit from liquid-to-liquid heat exchangers to manage heat from steering and propulsion hydraulics.