What type of pressure control is essential for safety in a heat exchanger?

In a heat exchanger, overpressure relief is essential for maintaining safety because it helps prevent excessive internal pressures that could lead to equipment failure or catastrophic incidents. Heat exchangers operate by transferring heat between two fluids, and as the temperature or flow rates change, pressure can increase. If these pressures are not controlled, they can exceed the design limits of the exchanger, potentially causing leaks or ruptures.

Overpressure relief mechanisms, such as pressure relief valves, are designed to automatically release excess pressure when it approaches dangerous levels. This proactive safety measure protects both the equipment and personnel by allowing the heat exchanger to operate within a safe pressure range and preventing the risks associated with pressure buildup.

Maintaining atmospheric pressure, vacuum pressure, or negative pressure are important in various contexts, but they do not directly address the specific need for managing high internal pressures in heat exchangers. Thus, the focus on overpressure relief underscores the critical importance of safety in high-pressure systems used for heat exchange processes.