🔥 Bowman EC120 Cupro-Nickel Heat Exchanger – 70kW (240,000 BTU)

🌡️ Professional-Grade Pool Heating Performance with Superior Corrosion Resistance for Chlorinated Pools

📋 Product Overview

The Bowman EC120-5113-3C is a professional 70kW cupro-nickel heat exchanger engineered for medium to large swimming pool applications. This British-manufactured unit delivers exceptional heat transfer performance, efficiently transferring thermal energy from your boiler system to pool water through its high-quality cupro-nickel tubestack.

Cupro-nickel construction provides excellent resistance to corrosion in chlorinated freshwater environments, making this heat exchanger ideal for conventional pool sanitisation systems. The compact shell-and-tube design maximises heat transfer efficiency while maintaining a space-efficient footprint that integrates seamlessly into existing plant room configurations.

Designed for pools up to 120,000 litres (26,000 gallons), the EC120 features Bowman’s proven counter-flow design with optimised tube configurations that deliver faster heat-up times compared to conventional units. With over 60 years of swimming pool heat exchanger manufacturing expertise, Bowman remains the acknowledged brand leader for quality, performance, and durability.

⭐ Key Features

✅ 70kW / 240,000 BTU Heat Transfer Capacity – Powerful output suitable for pools up to 120,000 litres when used with 82°C boiler water

✅ Cupro-Nickel Tubestack Construction – Superior corrosion resistance for chlorinated freshwater pool systems with excellent thermal conductivity

✅ Compact Shell-and-Tube Design – Space-efficient 542mm length with 86mm diameter body for easy plant room integration

✅ Universal Fit End Covers – Composite end covers accommodate both metric 50mm (DN40) and imperial 1½” NPS pipework for flexible installation

✅ Counter-Flow Heat Transfer – Optimised design achieves maximum thermal efficiency by flowing pool and boiler water in opposite directions

✅ Integral 7mm Thermostat Pocket – Built-in pocket on inlet end for accurate pool water temperature monitoring and control

✅ 6 Bar Maximum Operating Pressure – Robust construction rated for demanding commercial and residential applications on both circuits

✅ Horizontal or Vertical Mounting – Flexible installation options with included mounting brackets for various plant room configurations

✅ Easy Maintenance Access – Removable end covers and tubestack allow straightforward cleaning and servicing

✅ British Manufacturing Quality – Designed and built by Bowman in Birmingham, UK with over 100 years of heat transfer expertise

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Model Number	EC120-5113-3C
Heat Output (82°C Boiler Water)	70 kW / 240,000 BTU/hr
Heat Output (60°C Boiler Water)	40 kW / 135,000 BTU/hr
Shell Material	Cast Iron
Tube Material	Cupro-Nickel
Maximum Pool Volume	120,000 litres / 26,000 gallons
Boiler Water Flow Rate	3.6 m³/h (60 l/min)
Maximum Pool Water Flow Rate	13.5 m³/h (225 l/min)
Max Operating Pressure (Both Sides)	6 bar
Max Operating Temperature (Heating Side)	110°C
Max Operating Temperature (Pool Side)	100°C
Pool Water Connections	Solvent Weld Ø48/Ø50mm (DN40 Pipe)
Boiler Water Connections	¾” BSP (Threaded)
Overall Length	542mm
Body Diameter	86mm
Mounting Hole Centres	130mm
Thermostat Pocket	Ø7 x 40mm (Inlet End)
Weight (Dry)	5.5 kg
Warranty	12 months against manufacturing faults

📊 Heat Transfer Performance

The EC120-5113-3C delivers variable heat output depending on your boiler water temperature, allowing flexibility across different heating system configurations.

🏊 Pool Heating Performance:

Boiler Water Temperature	Heat Output	Suitable Pool Volume
82°C	70 kW (240,000 BTU/hr)	Up to 120,000 litres
60°C	40 kW (135,000 BTU/hr)	Up to 120,000 litres

⚡ Efficiency Factors:

The heat exchanger’s performance is optimised when:

• Pool water flows in counter-flow direction (opposite to boiler water)
• Boiler water flow rate maintained at 60 l/min (3.6 m³/h)
• Pool water flow rate does not exceed 225 l/min (13.5 m³/h)
• Heat exchanger is properly sized for pool volume
• Pool temperature target is 30°C (performance ratings based on this)

ℹ️ Note: All performance figures are manufacturer-rated based on achieving a pool water temperature of 30°C. Actual results depend on your specific heat source output, ambient conditions, and installation configuration.

⏱️ Heat-Up Times & Temperature Maintenance

⚠️ Heat-up times vary based on multiple factors including:

• Heat source output (boiler kW rating)
• Starting water temperature
• Target pool temperature
• Ambient/outdoor temperature
• Pool cover usage and insulation
• Heat exchanger sizing match
• Weather conditions and heat losses

The Bowman EC120 is a passive heat transfer device – actual heating times depend entirely on your boiler’s output capacity and environmental conditions.

📐 Sizing Guidance:

The EC120-5113-3C is rated for pools up to 120,000 litres (26,000 gallons) when paired with an appropriately sized boiler providing 82°C flow water. For optimal performance, ensure your boiler can deliver sufficient output to match the heat exchanger’s 70kW transfer capacity.

🛡️ Material & Compatibility Guide

Cupro-Nickel Tubestack – Why It Matters

Cupro-nickel (copper-nickel alloy) is specifically selected for its excellent balance of heat transfer efficiency and corrosion resistance in chlorinated freshwater applications. This material choice provides reliable long-term performance in conventional pool water conditions.

✅ Recommended For:

✅ Chlorinated freshwater swimming pools

✅ Bromine-treated pools

✅ Conventional chemical sanitisation systems

✅ Indoor and outdoor pool installations

✅ Residential and light commercial applications

⚠️ Water Chemistry Requirements (Cupro-Nickel):

Parameter	Required Range
Free Chlorine	1.0 – 3.0 ppm
pH Level	7.2 – 7.8
Calcium Hardness	200 – 400 ppm
Total Alkalinity	100 – 150 ppm
Bromine	2.0 – 4.0 ppm
Chloride Content	Less than 150 ppm

❌ Not Suitable For:

❌ Salt water chlorinator systems (use Titanium model)

❌ Salt water pools (use Titanium model)

❌ High chloride environments exceeding 150 ppm

ℹ️ Note: If your pool uses a salt water chlorinator or operates with elevated chloride levels, please consider the Bowman Titanium range which offers superior resistance to chloride-induced corrosion.

🎯 Applications & Use Cases

🏊‍♂️ Residential Swimming Pools

Ideal for medium to large domestic pools up to 120,000 litres, providing efficient heat transfer from gas, oil, or LPG boiler systems.

🏢 Light Commercial Facilities

Suitable for holiday lets, small hotel pools, leisure facilities, and rental property pools requiring reliable, professional-grade heating.

🛁 Large Spa & Hot Tub Installations

Capable of handling high-demand spa applications where rapid heat recovery is essential for continuous use.

🔥 Boiler System Integration

Designed specifically for use with conventional boiler systems operating at 60-82°C flow temperatures, connecting via ¾” BSP threaded connections.

☀️ Solar Thermal Compatibility

Can be integrated with solar thermal systems, though for lower temperature applications (45-70°C), consider the EC160 solar-specific models for optimal performance.

🔨 Installation Considerations

Mounting Options:

The EC120 can be installed horizontally or vertically, providing flexibility for various plant room configurations. Mounting brackets with Ø7mm holes at 130mm centres are included.

Connection Requirements:

Pool Water Side:

• Solvent weld connections for Ø48mm or Ø50mm (DN40) pipework
• Universal Fit end covers accommodate metric and imperial pipe sizes
• 28mm socket depth for metric, 56mm for imperial connections

Boiler Water Side:

• ¾” BSP threaded male connections
• Ensure adequate thread engagement for watertight seal

Counter-Flow Installation (Critical):

⚠️ The heat exchanger MUST be installed in counter-flow configuration – pool water must flow in the opposite direction to boiler water. Failure to install correctly will significantly reduce performance.

Positioning Guidelines:

• Install downstream of filtration equipment
• Fit dosing systems downstream of heat exchanger with non-return valve
• Position thermostat in pool water pipe before heat exchanger inlet
• Ensure frost-free, dry location with non-aggressive atmosphere
• Allow access for maintenance and end cover removal

Flow Direction:

• Pool Water: Inlet and outlet via end covers (solvent weld)
• Boiler Water: Inlet and outlet via shell connections (¾” BSP)

⚠️ Professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure correct configuration, warranty compliance, and optimal performance.

📥 Downloads & Resources

 Swimming Pool Heat Exchanger Brochure – Complete product range specifications and performance data (PDF)

 Installation, Operation & Maintenance Guide – Full technical installation instructions and maintenance procedures (PDF)

🏆 Why Choose Bowman Heat Exchangers

✅ British Manufacturing Excellence – Designed and manufactured in Birmingham, UK by E.J. Bowman Ltd with over 100 years of heat transfer expertise

✅ Industry-Leading Reputation – Tens of thousands of units operating reliably worldwide, from residential spas to Olympic swimming pools

✅ Superior Heat Transfer Design – More heat transfer tubes than competitors, delivering faster heat-up times and reduced energy consumption

✅ Premium Material Quality – Choice of cupro-nickel, stainless steel, or titanium tubestacks to match any water chemistry requirement

✅ Proven Durability – Robust construction designed and built to the highest quality standards for outstanding reliability

✅ Comprehensive Range – Full selection of sizes from 20kW to over 1,000kW covering domestic pools to commercial aquatic centres

✅ 12 Month Warranty – All units guaranteed against manufacturing faults (Titanium models include 10-year tube material guarantee)

🛒 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ UK-Based Pool Heating Specialists – Dedicated expertise in swimming pool and spa heating equipment

✅ Expert Technical Advice – Knowledgeable team to help with sizing, selection, and installation guidance

✅ Fast UK Delivery – Quick dispatch to get your pool heating project completed promptly

✅ Competitive Pricing – Quality Bowman products at excellent value

✅ After-Sales Support – Ongoing assistance with spare parts, technical queries, and servicing

✅ Genuine Bowman Products – Authorised stockist supplying authentic manufacturer equipment

✨ Summary

The Bowman EC120-5113-3C 70kW Cupro-Nickel Heat Exchanger represents the perfect combination of professional-grade performance and reliable construction for chlorinated swimming pool heating. With its compact design, flexible mounting options, and proven Bowman quality, this unit delivers efficient heat transfer for pools up to 120,000 litres when paired with a suitable boiler system. British-built to exacting standards with over 60 years of pool heat exchanger expertise, the EC120 is the trusted choice for pool owners seeking dependable, long-lasting heating performance.