How do regenerative air heaters transfer heat?

Regenerative air heaters are designed to efficiently transfer heat from exhaust gases to the incoming combustion air, thereby improving overall thermal efficiency. This process is typically accomplished using a rotary wheel system. In this system, the rotary wheel consists of a heat-absorbing material that rotates between the hot exhaust gases and the cooler incoming air.

As the wheel turns, it passes through the hot exhaust stream, absorbing heat. When the section of the wheel moves into the path of the cooler incoming air, the absorbed heat is released to the incoming air. This method allows for a continuous exchange of heat, maximizing the temperature differential and enhancing the efficiency of the heating process. The rotary wheel's design helps to minimize energy loss and ensures a consistent flow of warmed air into the combustion process.

This principle of operation highlights the regenerative air heater's ability to utilize waste heat effectively instead of letting it escape, which ultimately contributes to energy savings and reduced emissions.