What happens to the temperature if a liquid's flow through a heat exchanger decreases?

When the flow of a liquid through a heat exchanger decreases, the temperature of the liquid typically increases. This phenomenon occurs due to the fundamental principles of heat transfer. In a heat exchanger, a liquid is used to absorb or transfer heat from one medium to another.

When the flow rate slows down, the liquid has a longer residence time in the heat exchanger. This extended contact time allows for greater heat absorption from the hotter medium or increased heat release to the cooler medium, depending on the design of the heat exchanger. As a result, the liquid can achieve a higher temperature before exiting the heat exchanger.

This relationship highlights the importance of maintaining appropriate flow rates to ensure efficient heat exchange processes. If the liquid flow is too low, it may lead to overheating, reduced efficiency, or failure to meet process requirements. Understanding this principle is crucial for operating heat exchangers effectively and maintaining thermal equilibrium in industrial applications.