Technical Knowledge/Performance
Performance

How to assess a heat recovery opportunity

Match the available heat source to a real demand before estimating savings.

Match source and demand

Check whether both streams are available at the same time. Record operating hours, temperatures and approximate flow rates.

Define process constraints

Include fluid properties, separation requirements, cleaning access, plant layout and varying loads. State which equipment is inside the calculation boundary.

Make the result measurable

Ask how much heat can be reused at a defined operating point. Energy savings and payback require verified project calculations, not a generic percentage.

Prepare for the discussion

  • Fluids, composition and relevant material requirements
  • Flow rates and inlet/outlet temperatures on both circuits
  • Design conditions and allowable pressure drop on each side
  • Exact model, nameplate and current technical documents