Indirect heaters have many applications in the oil and gas industry. Basically they are used to prevent hydrates from forming after pressure reduction by choke or regulator. These hydrates "freeze up," causing blockage of gas-liquid flow.

Indirect heating by means of a firetube heats a fluid solution to a desired temperature of 160° F. or below. Flow coils are positioned above the firetube in the hottest portion of the water bath. Because combustible fluids are heated in these flow coils and are completely isolated from the direct fire, safe conditions are maintained. Also, confining gas-liquid flow to the coils eliminates the necessity for a high-pressure shell, effectively lowering the cost of the unit.

Indirect heaters are designed in a wide range of sizes. Firebox ratings range from 125,000 BTU's per hour to 2,000,000 BTU's per hour. Construction details are similar, regardless of the tube configuration or heating medium.

These units are completely trimmed and interconnect piped to allow ease in field hook-up.