Training Manual on Energy Efficiency - APO Asian Productivity ...

Convection recuperators
Convection recuperators consist essentially of bundles of drawn or cast tubes.
Internal and/or external fins can be added to assist with heat transfer. The
combustion air normally passes through the tubes and the exhaust gases
outside the tubes, but there are some applications where this is reversed. For
example, with dirty gases, it is easier to keep the tubes clean if the air flows
on the outside. Design variations include ‘U’ tube and double pass systems.
Convection recuperators are more suitable for exhaust gas temperatures of
less than about 900°C. Beyond 900 º C, ceramic recuperators can be used which
can withstand higher temperatures.
Figure 4-8 Convection recuperators
Regenerative burners
In regenerative burners, the heat of the gases is stored before they exit
and incoming combustion air is preheated from this stored heat, switching
between two chambers alternately. The cycle time is accurately controlled for
switchover. Options include regenerative burners and regenerative air preheaters
for heat recovery.
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Energy Efficiency in Furnaces