AKK
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- Offer Profile
- Welcome to the Plate Heat
Exchanger Service Experts
AKK Industrieservice & Handels GmbH is an independent service and trading company specialising in the repair, maintenance and spare parts trade for plate heat exchangers and plate heat exchangers of all makes.
Product Portfolio
Spare Parts
- A LARGE NUMBER OF SPARE PARTS IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE
FROM STOCK
We have all spare parts for your plate heat exchanger in stock and are pleased to help you promptly to prevent production downtimes. Both heat exchanger plates (new or reworked) and the corresponding gaskets can be obtained immediately from us- without long waiting times. In addition, according to your individual wishes we provide you with our tailor-made and perfectly customized to your needs replacement plate packages. You are welcome to inform yourself about the detailed services around our spare parts on the corresponding subpages. Replacement Plates
- REPLACEMENT PLATES FOR PLATE HEAT EXCHANGERS
As a manufacturer-independent service company for plate heat exchangers, AKK Industrieservice & Handels GmbH supplies replacement plates of all makes. Due to a high stock of new heat exchanger plates, we are able to assemble replacement plates or complete replacement plate packages at short notice. We supply products of the following manufacturers AGC, Alfa Laval, API-Schmidt-Bretten, APV Pasilac/SPX, Balcke Dürr, Bell & Gossett, Cetetherm, Cherry-Burrel, CIAT, Cipriani, Fischer, Funke, GEA /Kelvion/Tuchenhagen/Ecoflex, Hisaka, HRS, Hydac, ITT-Standard, Kapp, Mueller, Otto Heat, Polaris Plate Heat Exchangers, Reheat, Sondex, Stork, SWEP, Tetra Pak, Thermowave, Tranter, Thermaline, Vicarb, VIEX and others. 
Plate heat exchangers - important components in process engineering
- Plate heat exchangers (PHE) are important components of
thermal process engineering and are used in all industrial sectors. In the
chemical industry, they are used to heat, evaporate and cool acids,
caustics, emulsions and dispersions. Due to their low initial costs, compact
design and high thermal efficiency plate heat exchangers play an important
role in process engineering.
The heat exchanger plates are subject to mechanical and chemical wear. Due to pressure fluctuations, frequent start-up and shut-down of the system or pressure surges, the plates are subjected to bending and alternating stress. This mechanical stress results in hairline cracks, which lead to leaks and subsequently to mixing of the products.
In the case of chemical wear, the plate surfaces are damaged by chlorides, for example. Particularly at the contact points where the individual plates support each other, chloride nests can develop which can lead to chlorination, resulting in pitting corrosion.
Excessive flow velocities in the inlet area of the plates cause erosion. This is a further criterion which has impact on the reusability of the plates. Damage can also be caused when in the event of leaks the PHE is retightened by untrained personnel below the minimum compression dimension (amin) specified by the manufacturer. In this case, the plates are deformed and can no longer be used.
If a high system availability must be given, e.g. in dairies (milk processing, also on weekends) or chemical factories, it is necessary to have a spare plate package in stock. High production losses can occur due to leakage or product mixing. Only if a spare plate pack is available in these situations it can be installed quickly and thus a major loss of production can be avoided.
AKK stocks large quantities of heat exchanger plates - both new and refurbished replacement plates
- The manufacturers of heat exchanger plates only produce
to order and do not stock replacement plates anymore. This can lead to
delivery times of up to 8 weeks. AKK Industrieservice & Handels GmbH has a
stock of approx. 7,000 new and approx. 20,000 used and reconditioned plates
in stock. Thus, replacement or exchange plate packages can be put together
at short notice in order to reduce production losses.
AKK Industrieservice & Handels GmbH supplies new heat exchanger plates of all common makes, e.g.- Alfa Laval, Vicarb, APV/Pasilac/SPX, API Schmidt Bretten, Tetra Pak,
- GEA Ahlborn/Tuchenhagen/Ecoflex, Fischer Austria, Funke,
- Sondex, Swep / ReHeat, Tranter, Arsopi/Hisaka, Balcke Dürr,
- Otto Heat, Cetetherm/CTC, Scheer, Cipriani, Thermowave,
Replacement Gaskets
- HIGH-QUALITY REPLACEMENT GASKETS OF ALL REPUTABLE
MANUFACTURERS
As an independent service and trading company, AKK Industrieservice & Handels GmbH can supply you with high-quality replacement gaskets of all makes. You receive the delivery immediately, reliably and at fair prices.
We check our incoming goods very carefully and constantly conduct quality controls at certified producers. In this way we ensure that only gaskets of OEM quality are supplied. Production of plate heat exchanger gaskets for plate heat exchangers
- In the production of plate heat exchanger gaskets raw
materials from renowned manufacturers are used. This guarantees for
consistently good quality and prevents from any changes in properties due to
the use of other raw materials and mixtures. Our gasket suppliers are based
in Western Europe. Through regular visits of the production facilities, we
personally see for ourselves that the quality standards are observed.
The raw materials are FDA (Food and Drug Association) approved for food. The production of the gaskets is certified according to ISO 9002. All gaskets comply with the EU Regulation 1935/2004 on objects intended to come into contact with food. They also comply with Regulation (EU) No. 2023/2006 Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
The elastomer gaskets used to seal the individual plate channels in the plate heat exchanger should be checked regularly for proper condition. The service life of these gaskets has a decisive influence on the service life of the plate heat exchanger. The service life of the gaskets can vary greatly depending on the operating conditions and the medium.
The first signs of wear on the elastomer gaskets can be seen as leakage during cold start or during decommissioning in the cooling phase, i.e. the plate heat exchanger begins to drip.
Replacement Plate Packages
TAILORED REPLACEMENT PLATE PACKAGES
- Replacement plate packages are individually tailored to
your requirements and needs. We have approx. 20,000 used, refurbished and
tested heat exchanger plates in stock. This enables us to assure production
processes at short notice. For emergencies, complete used plate heat
exchangers are also available. With the aid of complex calculation software
for plate heat exchangers we can precisely calculate and supply replacement
units according to the respective requirements.
Replacement plate packages are put together according to the circuit diagram and are delivered and directly installed on the day of installation. The downtime of the system therefore is only a few hours. The „original“ plate package is now subjected to reconditioning. Within the next planned shutdown, the packages are simply exchanged again.
RECONDITIONING
- RECONDITIONING OF PLATE HEAT EXCHANGERS
In cooperation with experts from various branches of industry, we have developed a special process. This allows us to effectively and cost-efficient clean, test and recondition plate heat exchangers to 100%. This reconditioning includes the following measures:- Incoming Goods Inspection
- Chemical Plate Cleaning
- Dye Penetrant Testing
- Re-Gasketing
- Final Inspection and Shipping
Reconditioning is carefully planned. Thus, the production process is hardly interfered and the performance of the corresponding process systems is significantly improved, also. As a result, the risk of production downtime with all its consequences is reduced to a minimum. At the same time, the risk of energy losses due to contamination is reduced. For this reason, we recommend fixed maintenance intervals through our maintenance and framework contracts. In this way you reduce the risk of production downtime to a minimum and can react quickly in the event of a breakdown. 
Incoming Goods Inspection
- CHECK OF PLATE HEAT EXCHANGERS IN THE INCOMING
GOODS
After receipt of the delivered plates, they are checked for completeness and reusability in the incoming goods department. In addition, the gasket groove is checked and reworked if necessary.
When complete units are delivered, they are thoroughly inspected for external damage before dismantling. If erosion is suspected, a wall thickness measurement is carried out.
Chemical Plate Cleaning
- CHEMICAL PLATE CLEANING - PLATE HEAT EXCHANGERS BECOME
DIRTY OVER THE YEARS
Why is chemical plate cleaning so important and sensible? Heat exchanger plates tend to form deposits due to diverse media contamination. This reduces the efficiency of plate heat exchangers and increases energy costs. In order to guarantee optimum operation of the plate heat exchanger, we, AKK Industrieservice & Handels GmbH, have developed a process to subject heat exchanger plates to optimum refurbishment. In cooperation with chemical suppliers, we have developed special acid and caustic baths for this process.
Dye Penetrant Testing
- INSPECTING PLATE HEAT EXCHANGERS USING DYE PENETRANT
TESTING
After cleaning, the plates are thoroughly inspected for corrosion, holes or cracks by dye penetrant testing. Using this method, which originated in the aviation industry, even the finest hairline cracks in the plate can be made visible.
After cleaning, the entire surface of each single plate is sprayed with a fluorescent paint. After the appropriate exposure time, the plate is rotated and thoroughly inspected under UV light in the darkened test room. Damaged plates are marked accordingly and sorted out. Flawless plates are now cleaned again by means of high pressure. In addition, the plates are checked for deformation and the gasket grooves are checked. If necessary, the gasket grooves are reworked.
Re-Gasketing
- RE-GASKETING OF PLATE HEAT EXCHANGER GASKETS
During re-gasketing, the glued gaskets of the plate heat exchangers are replaced. The gasket groove is degreased and the new gasket is fixed to the plate with a two-component glue specially developed for this application.
Procedure of Re-Gasketing plate heat exchangers
The glue is first applied to the plate with a dispensing gun. However, in order to obtain a good wetting of the groove, the adhesive is then spread evenly with a brush.
The gasket is then fixed to the plate in the specified position and pressed down with a roller.
The reconditioned plates are stacked into a plate pack and tightened in special frames. To cure the adhesive, for evaporation of the solvents and to achieve optimum bonding, these packages are finally treated in an industrial oven.
Only after cooling the frames are untightened again. In the case of glue-free (clip-on or snap-on) gaskets, these are properly attached to the plate, taking into account the different systems.
Final Inspection and Shipping
- FINAL INSPECTION AND SHIPPING COMPLETE OUR
RECONDITIONING WORK
Our reconditioning work on your plate heat exchangers ends with final inspection and dispatch. Each gasket is checked for proper seating and adhesion to the plate. The plates are then assembled and packed according to the drawings or installation arrangements.
For complete devices, the plates are installed, the plate pack is tightened and then the heat exchanger is pressure tested on both sides with test pressure (incl. test certificate). Now the respective devices are shipped back to the place of use. The plate packs are then installed by the customer or by our experienced fitters. For further information please use our contact form or give us a call.
Electropolishing
- Electropolishing is useful when plate heat exchangers are
exposed to products that tend to form fouling. In this case, the surface can
be polished by electrochemical treatment in such a way that the system
downtime is reduced to a minimum.
Depending on the medium used, fouling at the heat transfer surfaces is more frequent, which has a negative effect on the transfer performance. To restore the transfer performance, it is necessary to disassemble the heat exchanger and clean the plates chemically or mechanically. Electrochemical polishing can significantly reduce this fouling and at the same time increase the corrosion resistance and thus the service life of the stainless steel plates.
In this process, the metal surface is being smoothed so that the surface is homogeneous, metallically clean and passivated. In addition, the gap speed in the heat exchanger can be increased, which improves the self-cleaning effect. This ensures that the performance is maintained for longer. If the increased fouling had not been taken into account in the system design and selection of the plate heat exchangers and if the plates have not been electrochemically polished while new, this can be done retrospectively.
Assembly
- ASSEMBLY SERVICE FOR PLATE HEAT EXCHANGERS
Our assembly service includes all works related to plate heat exchangers: On-site cleaning, gasket replacement, repairs, extensions, transport and installation of new plate packs. 
Assembly service around the clock: We are also on the road at weekends.
- In order to ensure a smooth production process, our fitters are also on the road for you at weekends.
Maintenance Contracts
- AVOID PRODUCTION DOWNTIMES WITH OUR MAINTENANCE
CONTRACTS
We tailor our maintenance contracts individually to you and your circumstances. In this way we reduce the production downtimes of your plate heat exchanger to a minimum. We achieve this mainly through preventive maintenance according to the maintenance schedule and appropriate definition of maintenance intervals. In addition, regular maintenance also extends the service life of your device.
Taking into account temperature, cleaning intervals and treated products (of the respective plate heat exchangers), we determine your individual maintenance plan. This is smoothly integrated into your production process in order to prevent production downtimes..
Tools
- OUR TOOLS FOR A SHORTER ASSEMBLY TIME
Our many years of experience in handling plate heat exchangers enable us to offer tools for opening and tightening. These tools have proven themselves in everyday use and are extremely user-friendly. With our professional tools, assembly times can be significantly reduced.
Hydraulic tightening device with 4 hydraulic punches, pump, distributor and hoses for large plate heat exchangers (size of more than 1 sqm/plate).
NEW DEVICES
- We have a wide range of new devices on offer for you: gasketed, brazed, welded and fully welded plate heat exchangers from all manufacturers belong to our range. Shell and tube heat exchangers are also available from us. If you are looking for the right device and need competent advice for the purchase, we will be pleased to assist you.
Gasketed Plate Heat Exchangers
- We offer gasketed plate heat exchangers of all manufacturers. Gasketed plate heat exchangers are used wherever liquids need to be cooled or heated, condensed or evaporated in the production process. Gasketed plate heat exchangers are characterized by high efficiency at low operating costs, as well as various application possibilities with smaller investment costs. The range of plate embossments, connection widths as well as plate widths and lengths allow for precise tailoring to your requirements. We can design a new device for you based on your individual requirements. We can rely on all manufacturers and can independently advise you on the procurement. In addition, maintenance-friendly assembly and gasketing technologies are used to ensure that service and maintenance costs remain low. If you buy a new device from us or from a manufacturer, you can rely on our flexible, fast and competent service. We offer you reconditioning, replacement gaskets from stock, replacement plates from stock and assembly works for your plate heat exchanger, irrespective of the manufacturer.
Brazed Plate Heat Exchangers
- We offer brazed plate heat exchangers for diverse
applications. Copper brazed plate heat exchangers offer efficient heat
transfer at a small footprint. They are maintenance-free, have a long
service life and can withstand high temperatures and extremely high design
pressures. They are used in a wide variety of applications including
cooling, heating, evaporation and condensing. See the complete product range
below. We look for an economical solution for you. We use different
manufacturers and independently advise you with the acquisition.
Should you wish to replace an old brazed plate heat exchanger, we can offer you such a unit again with the best delivery time. If your old brazed plate heat exchanger is no longer available, we will search for a suitable new device so that in the best case the connections or pipings do not have to be changed.
If your brazed plate heat exchanger is dirty and no longer performing, we can clean the plate heat exchanger for you. We rinse your plate heat exchanger with our CIP system. Our CIP system is mobile, so we can clean your plate heat exchangers on site. However, for economic reasons it often makes more sense to purchase a new one.
Welded Plate Heat Exchangers
- Welded plate heat exchangers are produced using the
fusion process. Therefore, these plate heat exchangers are 100% stainless
steel and provide efficient heat transfer with a small footprint. They are
maintenance-free and have a long service life. They are suitable for
applications with high cleanliness requirements, or where aggressive media
such as ammonia are used, or where copper and nickel contamination is not
permitted. They can also handle very high temperatures or extremely high
pressures.
If your welded plate heat exchanger is dirty and no longer performing, we can clean the plate heat exchanger for you. We rinse your plate heat exchanger with our CIP system. Our CIP system is mobile, so we can also clean your plate heat exchanger on site.
FULLY WELDED PLATE HEAT EXCHANGERS (COMPABLOC)
- Fully welded plate heat exchangers (Compabloc) convince
with their compact size, excellent heat transfer coefficients and
comparatively low investment costs. They are notably robust and require very
little cleaning and maintenance.
Fully Welded Plate Heat Exchangers (Compabloc)Fully welded plate heat exchangers are used in applications with high temperatures and high pressures. They are available in different designs, e.g. as Bloc (e.g. CompaBloc from Alfa Laval, FunkeBloc from Funke). This type of construction consists of a welded plate pack (Bloc) and is completed with 4 screwed frame plates. Application ranges up to 400°C and up to 40 bar are possible (depending on manufacturer). In addition to the Bloc design, there are also plate and shell heat exchangers (e.g. XPS heat exchangers from Gesmex). Compared to the shell and tube heat exchangers, the plate and shell design has the advantage that the heat transfer surface is designed as a plate and the cylindrical shell is taken over from the shell and tube heat exchanger. The application limits range from vacuum up to 400 bar and from -200 °C up to 500 °C.
Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers
- Shell and tube heat exchangers can be found in all
important branches of industry. They are used as heaters, coolers,
evaporators or heating condensers in process engineering, especially in the
project business. Our proven designs are in use all over the world. We will
design a new unit for you according to your individual requirements. In
addition, we have the potential to rebuild old devices with similar
dimensions.
How does a heat exchanger actually work? A heat exchanger is a non-fired pressure vessel in which two media are led past each other in such a way that in the presence of a certain temperature difference they exchange heat with each other. The two media are separated by a wall as thin as possible to prevent them from mixing.
If you have performance or contamination problems with your shell and tube heat exchanger, we will be pleased to clean your tube bundle for you. We can carry out chemical and mechanical cleaning. We can also burn out the tube bundles. In this process the tube bundle is exposed to high temperatures for a longer time so that the dirt combusts and becomes detachable.
