What is the best all-around material for heat exchangers?

The selection of stainless steel as the best all-around material for heat exchangers is grounded in its robust properties that suit a wide range of applications, particularly in the medical and industrial fields, including cardiovascular perfusion. Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion, which is essential in environments where it may be exposed to various fluids, including blood and other biological materials. This corrosion resistance ensures a longer lifespan and reduces the risk of contamination, making it particularly useful in clinical settings where hygiene is paramount.

Moreover, stainless steel has excellent thermal conductivity, allowing for efficient heat exchange despite its slightly lower conductivity compared to metals like aluminum. Its durability and mechanical strength also provide resistance to high pressures and temperatures, which are common in heat exchanger applications during perfusion.

Aluminum, while lightweight and having good thermal conductivity, can be more susceptible to corrosion, especially in acidic environments. Although bio-coated aluminum offers some improvements, it may not provide the same level of durability as stainless steel. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is not typically used in heat exchangers due to its lower thermal conductivity and lower mechanical strength compared to metals, rendering it less suitable for high-performance applications.