Steam has extensive ranges of applications in many industries. Therefore, the industrial players need different types of heaters for their operations. Due to that, the steam heater makers put a significant level of research and innovation to make better products.

When you are planning to buy a steam heater for your plant, you should consider a number of factors. Often times, people make a mistake of purchasing heaters that are either not meeting their needs or going beyond the requirements. In some cases, energy could be wasted because of incorrect heating usage. A basic checklist may help you acquire the right heater based on your needs.

Flow Rate

The steam flow rate of different steam heaters is an important factor while you choose your product. It showcases the capacity of the particular heater, and it results in the final output of your plant operations. Steam flow capacity is generally calculated in lbs/hour. While choosing the heater, you should match the capacity of the heater with the steam or hot water requirement of your plant.

Another critical factor you can consider is the water flow rate to the heater. It is calculated in gallons per minute (gpm). These two numbers will also help you use the steam heater, so it is the most efficient and effective.

Energy Efficiency and Capital Cost

You should pay attention to the energy efficiency of your steam heater considering the rising utility prices. Heaters with better energy efficiency offer you recurring benefits as long as you use it.

You should also check the capital cost of the equipment. If an expensive heater provides you better energy efficiency, it may not ultimately help you to save your money. Similarly, cheap heaters with more energy consumption is also not a prudent option for plant operations. Therefore, you should consider both the price of the heater as well as efficiency while choosing the product.

Applications of the Heater

While some heaters can only heat water, many others can be used for various liquids. You can use certain types of steam heater for slurries, starch cooking, sanitary cooking or heating, paper pulp stock, bitumen froth, sludge, and more. Various industries including pulp and paper, oil and gas, biofuel, food processing, oil sands, and power industries use such heaters.

If you have such varied needs, you can better get a heater that can fit all your industrial needs. However, you should assess whether you can use the heater for multiple needs of your plant effectively.