SWEP B120T

They mean the frame is published with European pressure-equipment (PED), UL and Japanese high-pressure gas (KHK) approvals, which covers most building and refrigeration work. The approval belongs to the individual build and its pressure class, and the nameplate on the unit delivered is what an inspector reads.

The common mistake is assuming an ASME or CRN stamp because the unit being replaced had one. If the jurisdiction or the insurer requires either, write it on the quote request.

The plate count after the x and the letters after the dashes. The builds we have on file for this frame run from 30 to 223 plates in the S and M pressure classes, so a legible x70 and a final S already narrow the unit to a few configurations. The nine-digit SWEP article number, if it survives, settles it outright.

If the count is gone, count the plate edges down the side of the pack. Then measure the port centres: 456 x 174 mm confirms a B120T, because the 525 x 243 mm outline alone is shared with other frames. Keep the trailing T - it marks the plate generation, and the non-T plate is a physically different part.

Yes, glycol is routine on this frame, but a unit selected on water will fall short on glycol. The mixture is more viscous and carries less heat, so the same plate count gives a higher pressure drop and a wider approach. Give the glycol type, the concentration and the coldest fluid temperature with the duty so the plate count is selected for it.

Freezing is a water-side problem. Each channel holds only 0.241 dm3, so if water flow stops while cold glycol keeps circulating, the water freezes in seconds and the expansion splits the pack. Prove water flow before the cold side starts, and see freeze protection for the control arrangements.

The full designation is best: frame, plate letter, plate count, pass arrangement, material code, pressure class and the connection string. With that the quote names one exact unit.

State the material code rather than assuming it. The datasheet standard for this frame is 304 plate (NC), yet every catalogued part number we hold for it is SC, the 316/316L build. A nameplate reading NC and one reading SC are different units.

Without a nameplate, send the duty and the existing connection type and size.

Go larger, or at least have both selected. The published 27.4 m3/h (120.64 GPM) is a ceiling set by the ports, not a design point. Near that figure the port velocity is high, and adding plates does not help because the restriction is in the ports rather than the channels.

A B120T works best with the larger of its two flows comfortably under the ceiling. If the selection only meets the pressure drop allowance near the 250-plate maximum, that is a second sign the frame is too small. The B200T is the next step in this flow band, and a larger-port frame usually ends up with fewer plates for the same duty.

These models are catalogued alongside the B120T. Each has its own page with its dimensions, materials and part numbers.

SWEP F120T - A copper-brazed 316/316L evaporator with long thermal length for chillers and heat pumps.

SWEP P120T - A copper-brazed 316/316L evaporator on the 120T frame with six catalogued connection types.

SWEP V120T - Evaporator on the B120T frame, 525 x 243 mm, up to 250 plates, 120.64 GPM max flow.