🔥 Bowman GK190-5117-3C Heat Exchanger | 1,060,000 BTU (310kW) Cupro Nickel

🌡️ Industrial-Grade Pool Heating for Major Commercial Facilities – British Engineering Excellence with Superior Heat Transfer Performance

📋 Product Overview

The Bowman GK190-5117-3C is an industrial-grade cupro nickel heat exchanger engineered for heating the largest commercial and institutional swimming pools. Manufactured by E.J. Bowman in Birmingham, UK, this unit represents over 100 years of heat transfer technology expertise, delivering exceptional performance where it matters most.

This shell-and-tube heat exchanger transfers thermal energy from your boiler system to pool water through its high-efficiency cupro nickel tube stack. The design features significantly more heat transfer tubes than competitor products, enabling pools to heat up to three times faster while reducing energy consumption and running costs.

The GK190-5117-3C is purpose-built for large-scale applications, suitable for pools up to 660,000 litres (145,000 gallons). Its cupro nickel construction provides excellent corrosion resistance for chlorinated freshwater pools, making it the ideal choice for aquatic centres, leisure complexes, and competition facilities requiring reliable, high-output pool heating.

⭐ Key Features

✅ Exceptional Heat Output – Delivers 310kW (1,060,000 BTU/hr) at 60°C boiler water temperature, or 556kW (1,900,000 BTU/hr) at 82°C boiler water

✅ Cupro Nickel Tube Stack – Premium corrosion-resistant construction providing excellent durability and heat transfer efficiency for chlorinated pool water

✅ Removable Tube Stack Design – Easy access for inspection, cleaning and maintenance without full system disassembly

✅ High Flow Capacity – Handles maximum pool water flow of 75.0m³/h (1,250 l/min) for rapid circulation and even heat distribution

✅ Flexible Mounting Options – Can be installed vertically or horizontally to suit your plant room configuration

✅ Flanged Pool Connections – DN100 flanged connections (PN6/10/16 compatible) for secure, professional installation on large pipework

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

✅ Counter-Flow Operation – Optimised counter-flow design maximises heat transfer efficiency between boiler and pool circuits

✅ Robust Industrial Construction – Engineered to withstand continuous operation in demanding commercial environments

✅ British Manufacturing Quality – Designed and built by E.J. Bowman in Birmingham, UK, with over 60 years of swimming pool heat exchanger expertise

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Model Number	GK190-5117-3C
Heat Output (82°C Boiler)	556kW / 1,900,000 BTU/hr
Heat Output (60°C Boiler)	310kW / 1,060,000 BTU/hr
Shell Material	Cast Iron
Tube Stack Material	Cupro Nickel
Maximum Pool Volume	660m³ / 660,000 litres / 145,000 gallons
Boiler Water Flow Rate	19.2m³/h (320 l/min)
Maximum Pool Water Flow Rate	75.0m³/h (1,250 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	Flanged DN100 (PN6/10/16)
Boiler Water Connections	Threaded 2″ BSP
Overall Length	704mm
Body Diameter	198mm
Flange Configuration (PN10/16)	8 × Ø18mm holes on 180mm PCD
Weight (Dry)	57 kg
Warranty	12 months against manufacturing defects

📊 Heat Transfer Performance

The Bowman GK190-5117-3C delivers outstanding heat transfer capability for large-scale pool heating applications. Performance varies based on your boiler water temperature:

🏊 Pool Heating Performance:

• Heat Output at 82°C Boiler Water: 556kW (1,900,000 BTU/hr)
• Heat Output at 60°C Boiler Water: 310kW (1,060,000 BTU/hr)
• Suitable for pools up to: 660,000 litres (145,000 gallons)
• Target pool temperature: 30°C (performance ratings based on this)

⚡ Efficiency Factors:

• Counter-flow installation is essential for optimal performance
• Maintain boiler water flow at 19.2m³/h (320 l/min) for rated output
• Pool water flow should not exceed 75.0m³/h (1,250 l/min)
• Higher boiler water temperatures yield greater heat transfer rates
• Proper sizing ensures the heat exchanger operates within design parameters

ℹ️ Note: The performance figures shown are based on achieving a pool water temperature of 30°C, as stated in Bowman manufacturer documentation. Actual heat transfer depends on boiler water temperature, flow rates, and system configuration.

⏱️ Heat-Up Times & Temperature Maintenance

⚠️ Important Information About Heating Times

Heat-up times for swimming pools vary significantly based on multiple factors that are unique to each installation. The manufacturer documentation does not provide specific heat-up time calculations for this model.

Variables that affect pool heating time:

• Heat source capacity (boiler kW output)
• Starting water temperature
• Target water temperature
• Pool cover usage (critical for reducing heat loss)
• Ambient/outdoor temperature
• Building insulation (for indoor pools)
• Wind exposure (for outdoor pools)
• Pool surface area and depth

General Guidance:

The GK190-5117-3C is rated for pools up to 660,000 litres when paired with an appropriately sized boiler system. The heat exchanger itself is a passive device – actual heating speed depends entirely on your boiler’s output capacity and the temperature differential between boiler water and pool water.

🛡️ Material & Compatibility Guide

Cupro Nickel Construction – The Professional Choice

The GK190-5117-3C features a cupro nickel tube stack, offering an excellent balance of heat transfer performance, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness for commercial pool installations.

✅ Recommended For:

• ✅ Chlorinated freshwater swimming pools
• ✅ Indoor and outdoor pools with standard chemical treatment
• ✅ Commercial and institutional facilities
• ✅ Leisure centres and aquatic complexes
• ✅ Competition and training pools
• ✅ Hotel and resort pools

Water Chemistry Requirements (from Bowman documentation):

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

❌ Not Recommended For:

• ❌ Salt water chlorinator systems
• ❌ Salt water pools
• ❌ High chloride content water

⚠️ For salt water or salt chlorinator applications, consider the Bowman GK190-5117-3T Titanium model instead.

🎯 Applications & Use Cases

The Bowman GK190-5117-3C is designed for the largest commercial pool heating installations:

🏢 Major Aquatic Centres – Purpose-built for large public swimming facilities with high bather loads and continuous operation requirements

🏊‍♂️ Olympic & Competition Pools – Delivers the high heat output needed for 50-metre competition pools and training facilities

🏨 Large Leisure Complexes – Ideal for multi-pool leisure centres, water parks, and resort developments

🏫 Institutional Facilities – Universities, schools, and military installations with substantial pool heating demands

🔥 Boiler Integration – Designed primarily for connection to commercial gas, oil, or biomass boiler systems operating at 60-82°C

⚡ Multi-Pool Systems – Can form part of a larger heating infrastructure serving multiple pools from a central plant room

Heat Source Compatibility:

• Commercial gas boilers
• Oil-fired boilers
• Biomass heating systems
• District heating connections
• Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems

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🔨 Installation Considerations

Professional Installation Required

The GK190-5117-3C must be installed by qualified heating engineers in accordance with the Bowman Installation, Operation & Maintenance Guide.

Key Installation Points:

Mounting:

• Can be mounted vertically or horizontally
• Ensure adequate access for maintenance and tube stack removal
• Install in a frost-free, dry location with non-aggressive atmosphere

Counter-Flow Configuration:

• Must be installed in counter-flow arrangement (pool water flows opposite direction to heating water)
• Failure to install correctly will significantly reduce performance

Pipework Connections:

• Pool water: DN100 flanged connections (PN6/10/16 compatible)
• Boiler water: 2″ BSP threaded connections
• Install isolation valves on all flow and return pipes

System Position:

• Install downstream of pumping and filtration equipment
• Automatic dosing systems must be fitted after the heat exchanger
• Fit non-return valve before any dosing system

Thermostat:

• Use the integral 7mm thermostat pocket on the pool water inlet
• Connect to heat source control for accurate temperature regulation

Boiler Circuit:

• Boiler water must be pump-assisted
• Add inhibitor to boiler circuit to protect against corrosion
• Ensure system is properly vented to prevent air locks

⚠️ Important: Always follow Bowman’s Installation, Operation & Maintenance Guide. Professional installation is required for warranty compliance and safe operation.

📥 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

✅ 100 Years of Heat Transfer Expertise – E.J. Bowman has been manufacturing heat exchangers since 1924, with over 60 years specialising in swimming pool applications

✅ British Manufacturing Quality – Designed and built in Birmingham, UK, to the highest engineering standards

✅ Industry-Leading Performance – More heat transfer tubes than competitor products enables heating pools up to three times faster

✅ Proven Reliability – Tens of thousands of Bowman units operating efficiently worldwide, from domestic spas to Olympic facilities

✅ Premium Material Options – Choice of cupro nickel, stainless steel, or titanium tube stacks to match any water type

✅ Easy Maintenance Design – Removable tube stack and accessible end covers make servicing straightforward

✅ Comprehensive Spare Parts – Full range of replacement components available for long-term serviceability

✅ 12-Month Warranty – All Bowman swimming pool heat exchangers guaranteed against manufacturing defects

🛒 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ UK-Based Pool Heating Specialists – Expert knowledge of commercial and domestic pool heating solutions

✅ Technical Support – Our team can help with product selection, sizing advice, and installation queries

✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on genuine Bowman heat exchangers and accessories

✅ Fast UK Delivery – Quick dispatch to get your project moving

✅ Genuine Products – Authorised stockist of authentic Bowman heat exchangers

✅ After-Sales Service – Ongoing support for spare parts, maintenance advice, and technical assistance

✨ Summary

The Bowman GK190-5117-3C represents the pinnacle of commercial pool heating technology. With an impressive 310kW (1,060,000 BTU/hr) output at 60°C boiler water temperature and capacity for pools up to 660,000 litres, this industrial-grade cupro nickel heat exchanger delivers the performance demanded by major aquatic facilities. Backed by Bowman’s century of British engineering excellence and designed for reliability in the most demanding commercial environments, the GK190-5117-3C is the professional choice for large-scale pool heating installations.