Answer 5 quick questions and get the right exchanger type — fixed-plate, rotary (ERV core), polymer-membrane or heat-pipe — plus the key specs to send to suppliers.
Which air-to-air heat exchanger recovers both heat and moisture?
Rotary (energy-recovery wheel / ERV core) and polymer-membrane plates recover total enthalpy — both sensible heat and moisture. Fixed metal plates and heat pipes recover sensible heat only.
What heat exchanger avoids any cross-contamination between airstreams?
Fixed-plate exchangers, polymer-membrane plates and heat-pipe exchangers keep the two airstreams fully separated with no moving parts. Rotary wheels allow a small amount of carry-over and are not recommended where streams must stay separate (e.g. pharma, cleanroom).
Which type needs the least maintenance?
Static types — fixed-plate, polymer-membrane and heat-pipe — have no rotating parts and the lowest maintenance. Rotary wheels need a motor, seals and periodic cleaning.