After a slight increase in epichlorohydrin prices in September, the market remained relatively stable. By the end of the month, domestic prices closed at Dayang level. However, on October 8th, Qilu Petrochemical and Tianjin Chemical raised their prices to 18,000 yuan per ton, triggering a wave of price hikes across the market. The current round of increases exceeded 2,000 yuan, which was quite surprising. At this point, the market had not yet seen prices above 18,000 yuan, with contract customers accepting 18,000 yuan, while spot buyers were paying around 18,500 yuan. The epichlorohydrin market has finally turned around from its long-term decline, with sharp price increases and an overall improvement in market sentiment. This sudden shift caught many by surprise, as the previous trend had been downward for months. One key reason behind the price surge was the unexpected drop in domestic supply. In September, there had been expectations of a significant increase in production in October, leading to cautious market behavior and limited confidence in price movements. However, in October, several major producers faced operational issues. For example, Shandong Bohui Chemical's second phase 80,000-ton plant was temporarily shut down, Jiangsu Yangnong Chemical was undergoing maintenance, and Tianjin Chemical scheduled repairs for the month. Qilu Petrochemical also planned to halt operations on the 20th for overhauls. Meanwhile, Baling Petrochemicals reduced its foreign sales due to increased demand in September. These disruptions led to a supply shortage that was even more severe than expected, intensifying the supply-demand imbalance. As a result, the trading atmosphere improved significantly, with transaction prices steadily rising. Low-cost sources became harder to find, and once the price broke through the 18,000 yuan threshold, it approached the 20,000 yuan mark. Another factor contributing to the price increase was the growing demand from downstream sectors. Although the epoxy market remained relatively stable, demand started to pick up. Some previously idle companies resumed operations, and overall production rates increased. Solid one-step resin prices reached around 23,000 yuan, while liquid resin prices ranged between 27,000 and 28,500 yuan. Initially, weak epoxy resin demand had kept production rates low, reducing supply and creating a better market environment. However, as epichlorohydrin prices surged, buying interest picked up, further tightening supply and making procurement more challenging. This added to the active trading environment. Additionally, changes in the import and export markets also influenced domestic prices. In August, China exported 1,003 tons of epichlorohydrin and imported 6,676 tons of chloropropane. Export volumes rose by 161% compared to the previous month, while imports fell by 63 tons. Russian supply sources have become tighter, and October imports are expected to remain low, adding pressure to the domestic market. Import prices in October were concentrated between 1,950 and 2,000 U.S. dollars (CFR). In the short term, the sharp price increase is driven by supply shortages, marking a new phase for the epichlorohydrin market after years of decline. Traders began reluctantly selling products in October due to ongoing equipment instability and concentrated maintenance schedules. Domestic supply remains tight, and foreign trade associations are expected to raise their quotes in the second half of the month. The likelihood of higher external prices is increasing. Currently, the domestic market trend needs close monitoring. While the factors supporting further price increases are strong, from an operational perspective, pushing prices higher may not be sustainable in the long run.

Plate Heat Exchanger U Series

Plate Heat Exchangers (PHEs) are highly efficient devices used for heat transfer between two fluids. The U Series of plate heat exchangers is a specific design known for its compactness, flexibility, and high thermal efficiency. Below is a detailed classification and introduction to the U Series Plate Heat Exchangers:

1. Based on Design Features

  • Gasketed Plate Heat Exchangers:

    • Uses gaskets to seal plates and create flow channels.

    • Easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance.

    • Suitable for applications with moderate temperature and pressure.

  • Brazed Plate Heat Exchangers:

    • Plates are brazed together using copper or nickel.

    • Compact and leak-proof design.

    • Ideal for high-pressure and high-temperature applications.

  • Welded Plate Heat Exchangers:

    • Plates are welded together for a robust construction.

    • Suitable for corrosive or high-temperature fluids.

    • Commonly used in industrial applications.

      2. Based on Flow Configuration

      • Single-Pass U Series:

        • Fluids pass through the heat exchanger once.

        • Simple design with lower pressure drop.

      • Multi-Pass U Series:

        • Fluids pass through the heat exchanger multiple times.

        • Increases heat transfer efficiency but may result in higher pressure drop.

          3. Based on Application

          • HVAC U Series:

            • Used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

            • Efficient for heat recovery, chillers, and heat pumps.

          • Industrial U Series:

            • Designed for industrial processes such as chemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries.

            • Handles high temperatures, pressures, and corrosive fluids.

          • Refrigeration U Series:

            • Used in refrigeration systems for evaporators or condensers.

            • Compact and efficient for low-temperature applications.

          • District Energy U Series:

            • Connects to district heating or cooling networks.

            • High-capacity and energy-efficient.

              4. Based on Plate Material

              • Stainless Steel Plates:

                • Corrosion-resistant and durable.

                • Suitable for most applications, including food and beverage industries.

              • Titanium Plates:

                • Highly resistant to corrosion, especially in seawater or chloride environments.

                • Used in marine or chemical industries.

              • Nickel Plates:

                • Resistant to high temperatures and corrosive fluids.

                • Ideal for chemical processing or oil and gas industries.

                  5. Based on Gasket Material

                  • Nitrile (NBR) Gaskets:

                    • Suitable for water, oils, and low-temperature applications.

                  • EPDM Gaskets:

                    • Resistant to high temperatures and steam.

                    • Commonly used in HVAC and heating applications.

                  • Viton (FKM) Gaskets:

                    • Resistant to aggressive chemicals and high temperatures.

                    • Used in chemical or industrial applications.

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Siping Juyuan Hanyang Plate Heat Exchanger Co., Ltd , https://www.tj-heatexchange.com