Heat Exchangers: Types, Applications, Design, Operation & Maintenance

Upcoming Sessions

Classroom sessions
Online sessions

Course Introduction

This Heat Exchangers: Types, Applications, Design, Operation & Maintenance Training Course provides a comprehensive understanding of the technical and operational aspects of heat exchangers used across thermal power plants, petrochemical facilities, and process industries. The course focuses on widely applied exchanger designs such as shell-and-tube heat exchangers (STHE), air-cooled heat exchangers (ACHE), and plate heat exchangers (PHE), highlighting their functional roles in heat transfer systems. Participants will develop a strong grasp of the fundamental heat transfer principles and the interrelationship between thermal, hydraulic, and mechanical parameters that influence efficient heat exchanger design and operation.

The Heat Exchangers Training Course is structured to bridge the gap between theory and industrial practice. It familiarises engineers and technicians with international codes, standards, and best practices applied during design, fabrication, operation, inspection, and maintenance stages. Special emphasis is placed on operational efficiency, fouling mitigation, performance monitoring, and maintenance strategies. Practical workshops, real-world case studies, and engineering examples are integrated throughout the course to support root cause analysis and effective troubleshooting of common heat exchanger problems encountered in industrial environments.

This COPEX Training Course will feature:

  • Key design characteristics of industrial heat exchangers
  • Practical understanding of heat transfer principles and mechanisms
  • International codes and standards for fabrication, operation, and maintenance
  • Common operational issues including fouling and performance degradation
  • Inspection practices addressing corrosion, erosion, and structural integrity

Objectives

By the end of this Heat Exchangers Training Course, participants will be able to achieve the following objectives, enabling them to apply sound engineering judgment in real operating environments:

  • Understand established design guidelines, specifications, and limitations associated with different types of heat exchangers used in industry.
  • Analyse thermal and hydraulic operational parameters, including flow arrangements, temperature profiles, pressure drops, and heat transfer rates.
  • Determine correct selection criteria for sizing and rating heat exchangers based on process requirements and operating conditions.
  • Identify operational problems such as fouling, vibration, corrosion, and scaling that lead to performance deterioration and reduced reliability.
  • Apply appropriate troubleshooting techniques to diagnose root causes and implement corrective actions for improved exchanger performance and longevity.

Training Methodology

This Heat Exchangers Training Course is delivered using a workshop-based methodology that combines structured lectures with interactive learning activities. Core concepts are introduced through focused presentations, followed by practical case studies and worked examples that demonstrate how theoretical principles are applied in real industrial situations. This approach ensures participants gain both conceptual understanding and practical insight.

Hands-on exercises and problem-solving sessions are integrated throughout the training course to reinforce learning outcomes. Participants are encouraged to share operational experiences, discuss challenges, and explore alternative solutions under guided facilitation. Individual learning goals are also discussed to ensure the course content addresses specific technical needs and supports practical application in the participants’ respective work environments.

Who Should Attend?

This Heat Exchangers Training Course is designed for technical professionals involved in the design, operation, inspection, and maintenance of heat exchange equipment. The course is suitable for individuals seeking to enhance their understanding of exchanger performance, reliability, and optimisation across industrial applications.

The training course will be especially beneficial for:

  • Maintenance professionals responsible for exchanger reliability and upkeep
  • Inspection personnel involved in condition assessment and integrity evaluation
  • Process supervisors overseeing thermal systems and process efficiency
  • Plant operators engaged in daily operation and monitoring of heat exchangers
  • Plant and technical managers responsible for operational performance and asset integrity

Course Outline

Day 1: Types and Applications of Heat Exchangers

  • Heat Exchanger Types and Applications: Choice of Working Fluid
  • Heat Transfer Fundamentals and Heat Transfer Rates
  • Heat Exchanger Elements: Tube Bundles, Tube Sheets, Baffles and Nozzles
  • TEMA Nomenclature of Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers (STHE)
  • Air Cooled Heat Exchangers (ACHE) and Plate Heat Exchangers (PHE)
  • Condensers, Evaporators and Reboilers

Day 2: Thermal and Hydraulic Design of Heat Exchangers

  • Flow vs. Temperature Difference in STHE
  • Thermal Specification of Heat Exchangers: Sizing and Rating
  • Hydraulic Design of STE: Fluid velocity and Pumping Power Calculation
  • Aerodynamic Design of ACHE: Sizing of Fans and Drive
  • Sizing and Specifying of PHE Units: Compabloc Design
  • Workshop: Case Studies, Examples & Solutions

Day 3: Mechanical Design of Heat Exchangers

  • Mechanical Design of Heat Exchangers
  • Calculation of Basic Elements of STHE
  • Piping Loads on Exchanger Nozzles
  • Material selection and Construction of Heat Exchangers
  • Fabrication Technologies of Heat Exchangers
  • Workshop: Case Studies, Examples & Solutions

Day 4: Operation and Maintenance of Heat Exchangers

  • Fouling and scaling in tubes and shells: Problem Solutions and Remedies
  • Inspection Techniques of Vital Elements of Heat Exchangers
  • Corrosion & Erosion Reduction Techniques, Fitness for Service Analysis (FFS)
  • Control in Operation: Tube Vibration & Troubleshooting
  • Cleaning, Maintenance and Repair Techniques: Tube Plugging and Re-tubing
  • Workshop: Case Studies, Examples & Solutions

Day 5: Performance Enhancement and Optimisation of Heat Exchangers

  • Performance Monitoring and Testing
  • Performance Validation
  • Heat Transfer Augmentation Techniques
  • Tubes with external and internal fins
  • Heat Integration Basics: Pinch Technology
  • Workshop: Case Studies, Examples and Solutions

Providers and Associations

Anderson
Aztech Training
Coventry

Certificate

  • Copex Certificate of Attendance will be provided to delegates who attend and complete the course

Material published by Copex shown here is copyrighted. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized copying, distribution, use, dissemination, downloading, storing (in any medium), transmission, reproduction or reliance in whole or any part of this course outline is prohibited and will constitute an infringement of copyright.

Whats Makes Copex Courses Unique?

COPEX Training is your gateway to professional growth, with over 20 years of experience turning potential into success. Each year, we deliver over 1,000 courses in 50+ countries, earning a stellar 98% satisfaction rate. Trusted by global giants like BP, the United Nations, and HSBC, we partner with top certification bodies to provide career-focused training that empowers individuals and drives organizational breakthroughs. Our mission? To transform the way professionals learn and grow in today’s fast-changing industries. Through expert insights, cutting-edge methods, and hands-on approaches, we equip you with the skills and confidence to tackle challenges, seize opportunities, and thrive in your career.

Led by a passionate leadership team and supported by a network of world-class trainers, COPEX Training connects professionals worldwide with life-changing opportunities. We are committed to excellence, ensuring every participant leaves with the tools, expertise, and confidence to conquer an ever-evolving world.

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Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ section provides quick answers to the most common questions about our services, procedures, and policies. We aim to make your experience with us as straightforward as possible. For further assistance, our support team is ready to help.

Yes, and we'd love to make that happen. COPEX  specialises in fully customised in-house training, adapting course content to align with your organisation's unique goals, culture, and industry demands. Get in touch with us directly and we'll craft the right solution for your team.

Yes, the choice is yours. The Heat Exchangers: Types, Applications, Design, Operation & Maintenance Training Course  runs in a traditional classroom setting across various international locations, and it's also available as a live online programme for those who prefer to learn from wherever they are. Pick the format that fits your lifestyle and schedule best.

Not at all. The Heat Exchangers: Types, Applications, Design, Operation & Maintenance Training Course doors are open to everyone, regardless of your background or how many years you've been in the industry. That said, having some familiarity with the subject area can help you get even more out of the experience.

Our team is available around the clock — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — ready to answer any question you have. Whether you need help choosing the right course, completing your registration, or sorting out logistics, we're here for you.

Expect an engaging, hands-on journey — not a room full of slides and passive listening. COPEX’s delivery blends presentations with group discussions, real-world case studies, practical exercises, and collaborative workshops. The goal is simple: everything you learn, you can use immediately back at work.

You'll be in good hands. COPEX hosts its courses in premium 4-star and 5-star hotels, with professional, fully equipped training spaces designed for focus and comfort. Throughout each day, you'll enjoy refreshment breaks with coffee and snacks, plus a complimentary lunch following every session.

This Heat Exchangers: Types, Applications, Design, Operation & Maintenance Training Course welcomes professionals from all walks of corporate life — whether you're a seasoned manager, an emerging team leader, a subject-matter specialist, or simply someone driven to grow in their field. If you're serious about advancing your career and deepening your expertise, this course was built with you in mind.

Absolutely. Every participant who successfully completes the Heat Exchangers: Types, Applications, Design, Operation & Maintenance Training Course earns an COPEX Certificate of Completion — a recognised mark of professional achievement. Depending on the specific course, it may also qualify for Training credits, which will be clearly noted in the course details.

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