What is the primary function of a heat exchanger?

The primary function of a heat exchanger is to transfer heat between two or more fluids without allowing them to mix. This is crucial in many industrial applications where thermal energy transfer is required for processes such as heating, cooling, or energy recovery while maintaining fluid separation.

Heat exchangers operate on the principle of conduction and convection, allowing one fluid to release heat while the other absorbs it. This process is fundamental in applications such as HVAC systems, power generation, and chemical processing, where efficient heat management is essential for both operational efficiency and safety.

The other choices do not accurately describe the heat exchanger's function. For instance, increasing pressure in gas systems pertains to pressure vessels or compressors, while converting thermal energy into mechanical work relates to engines or turbines. Measuring flow rates is the role of flow meters rather than heat exchangers. Understanding the specific function of a heat exchanger in thermal systems is essential for many engineering applications involving fluid dynamics and thermal management.