District heating and cooling networks
District heating and cooling networks are centralised systems that provide heating and cooling of buildings through a network of underground pipes. These systems are designed to use and recover the thermal energy coming not only from dedicated thermal power plants but also from industrial plants where the surplus energy would otherwise be dispersed. So these canvas systems improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide a sustainable alternative to traditional autonomous heating and cooling systems.
District heating
District heating is the distribution of heat produced in a centralised thermal power plant to a network of residential, commercial or industrial buildings.
Heat is generated through various processes, including the combustion of fossil fuels, biomass, municipal waste or the use of geothermal energy but also energy recovery from industrial processes. Once produced, the heat is transferred to a heat transfer fluid, usually hot water or steam, which is pumped through a network of insulated pipes to the connected buildings. We then find the heat exchangers both in the thermal power plant and widely in each building.
Inside the buildings, the heat transfer fluid transfers its heat through the heat exchangers, to heat the water for domestic use and power the different heating systems. The cooled fluid is then returned to the plant to be heated again, creating a continuous cycle.
With a view to energy saving and efficiency and in accordance with the new regulations, the plate heat exchanger finds more and more space thanks to the considerable thermal yields in view of a reduced footprint.
Telecooling
District cooling works similarly to district heating, but the process is reversed to provide cooling to buildings.
Chilled water is produced in a cooling plant using refrigerating machines often combined with natural sources such as geothermal, sea/lake/river water. This chilled water is then distributed through a network of pipes to the connected buildings.
In buildings, chilled water passes through heat exchangers, which absorb internal heat and cool the rooms. The heated water is then returned to the plant to be cooled again, ensuring a constant cooling cycle.
Advantages of district heating and cooling networks
- Energy Efficiency: Using centralised thermal energy production, these grids can leverage modern management technologies and renewable energy sources more efficiently than stand-alone systems.
- Reduction of Emissions: These systems contribute significantly to the reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants by exploiting less polluting fuels and recovering heat from industrial processes and waste.
- Flexibility and Reliability: Centralised grids can be easily modified in case of expansions, new technologies or renewable energy sources. In addition, the maintenance and centralised management of thermal power plants guarantee greater reliability and continuity of service compared to autonomous systems.
- Cost Reduction: Capital costs for end users are reduced as there is no need to install and maintain boilers, heat pumps or individual cooling systems.
The plate heat exchanger in district heating and district cooling
The heat exchanger is a crucial component in district heating and cooling networks, essential for the efficient transfer of thermal energy between two fluids without them mixing, preventing contamination and ensuring health safety.
Plate heat exchangers are particularly effective in this context for their high efficiency and compactness, allowing instant heat transfer and with minimal energy losses.
This translates into a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a lower environmental impact, supporting sustainability goals and the fight against climate change.
Cipriani PHE's experience in district heating and cooling
- Design: the study and realisation of specific products for the operational and dimensional needs of the customer
- Quality and reliability: certified materials for a durable product suitable for healthcare use
- Maintenance: After-sales service of a district heating/cooling network involves periodic and predictive maintenance of plate heat exchangers. Cipriani PHE responds to this need thanks to dedicated digital tools (MyPHE, PHExpress), a dedicated team of experts and partnerships with companies specialising in the service of these networks.
Maintenance of heat exchangers in district heating and cooling networks is crucial to ensure system efficiency and reliability. Regular maintenance prevents the build-up of deposits and scale, which can reduce thermal efficiency and increase energy consumption. In addition, a periodic check ensures that there are no leaks or malfunctions, avoiding expensive repairs and service interruptions. Keeping heat exchangers in optimal condition contributes to sustainable energy management and continuous and safe operation of district heating and cooling networks.