🔥 Bowman Stainless Steel Heat Exchanger – 190kW (650,000 BTU)
🌡️ Professional-Grade Pool Heating Power for Commercial & Large Residential Installations
📋 Product Overview
The Bowman FG100-5115-2S Stainless Steel Heat Exchanger delivers exceptional heating performance with a substantial 190kW (650,000 BTU) output at 82°C boiler water temperature. This robust shell-and-tube heat exchanger is purpose-built for large-scale pool heating applications where high capacity and reliable performance are essential.
Designed and manufactured in Birmingham, UK, this unit represents over 100 years of Bowman heat transfer expertise. The stainless steel tubestack provides excellent heat transfer efficiency and corrosion resistance for freshwater pool applications. With more heat transfer tubes than most competitor products, Bowman heat exchangers can heat pools up to three times faster, reducing energy costs and saving money.
This model is ideal for commercial pool facilities, large aquatic centres, and substantial residential installations with pool volumes up to 250,000 litres (55,000 gallons). Compatible with boilers, heat pumps, and solar thermal systems, it integrates seamlessly into new or existing pool heating infrastructure.
⭐ Key Features
✅ High Heat Transfer Capacity – 190kW (650,000 BTU) output at 82°C boiler water; 110kW (376,000 BTU) at 60°C
✅ Stainless Steel Tubestack – Excellent corrosion resistance for freshwater chlorinated pools with long-lasting durability
✅ Large Pool Volume Capacity – Suitable for pools up to 250,000 litres (55,000 gallons)
✅ High Flow Rate Design – Maximum pool water flow of 550 litres/min (33 m³/h) for efficient heat distribution
✅ Counter-Flow Configuration – Optimised heat transfer with pool water flowing opposite to heating water
✅ Integral Thermostat Pocket – 7mm x 52mm thermostat pocket at inlet end for accurate temperature monitoring
✅ Versatile Mounting Options – Can be installed horizontally or vertically to suit your plant room layout
✅ Compact, Heavy-Duty Construction – 470mm overall length with 128mm diameter shell; weighs just 16kg
✅ Easy Maintenance Access – Removable tubestack and end covers for straightforward cleaning and servicing
✅ British Manufacturing Quality – Designed and built in the UK to the highest quality standards
🔧 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Number | FG100-5115-2S |
| Heat Output (82°C Boiler Water) | 190 kW / 650,000 BTU/hr |
| Heat Output (60°C Boiler Water) | 110 kW / 376,000 BTU/hr |
| Shell Material | Cast Iron |
| Tube Material | Stainless Steel |
| Max Pool Volume | 250,000 litres / 55,000 gallons |
| Boiler Water Flow Rate | 8.4 m³/h (140 l/min) |
| Maximum Pool Water Flow Rate | 33.0 m³/h (550 l/min) |
| Max Operating Pressure (Both Sides) | 6 bar |
| Max Operating Temperature (Heating Side) | 110°C |
| Max Operating Temperature (Pool Side) | 100°C |
| Connections (Pool Water) | 2½” BSP Threaded |
| Connections (Boiler/Heating) | 1¼” BSP Threaded |
| Overall Length | 470 mm |
| Shell Diameter | 128 mm |
| Weight (Dry) | 16 kg |
| Thermostat Pocket | Ø7 x 52mm (Inlet End) |
📊 Heat Transfer Performance
🏊 Pool Heating Capacity
This heat exchanger delivers substantial heating power suitable for large pool installations:
With 82°C Boiler Water:
- Heat Output: 190 kW (650,000 BTU/hr)
- Suitable for pools up to: 250,000 litres (55,000 gallons)
With 60°C Boiler Water:
- Heat Output: 110 kW (376,000 BTU/hr)
- Suitable for pools up to: Based on lower temperature differential
⚡ Efficiency Factors
The FG series features an optimised tube configuration that maximises heat transfer surface area. Key performance considerations:
- Counter-Flow Installation – Essential for maximum efficiency; pool water must flow opposite to heating water
- Flow Rate Optimisation – Performance based on achieving 30°C pool water temperature at specified flow rates
- Boiler Temperature – Higher source temperatures deliver proportionally greater heat output
- Proper Sizing – Unit sized to match your heat source capacity and pool volume requirements
⏱️ Heat-Up Times & Temperature Maintenance
⚠️ Heat-up times vary significantly based on multiple factors including:
- Heat source output (boiler/heat pump kW rating)
- Starting water temperature
- Target water temperature
- Pool cover usage
- Ambient/outdoor temperature
- Weather conditions and heat losses
The heat exchanger itself is a passive device that transfers heat from your boiler or heat pump to the pool water. The actual heating time depends primarily on your heat source capacity and pool conditions.
💡 Key Variables Affecting Heating Performance
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Heat Source Capacity | Larger boilers/heat pumps = faster heating |
| Pool Cover | Reduces heat loss by up to 75% |
| Outdoor Temperature | Colder conditions increase heat loss |
| Pool Insulation | Well-insulated pools retain heat better |
| Wind Exposure | Increases evaporative heat loss |
ℹ️ Note: For accurate heating time calculations tailored to your specific installation, please contact our technical team with details of your heat source, pool volume, and environmental conditions.
🛡️ Material & Compatibility Guide
Stainless Steel Tubestack – Application Guidance
The stainless steel tubestack offers excellent heat transfer and durability for appropriate applications:
✅ Recommended For:
- Freshwater chlorinated swimming pools
- Standard pool chemical treatment systems
- Commercial and residential freshwater installations
- Boiler, heat pump, and solar thermal integration
❌ NOT Suitable For:
- Salt water pools
- Salt water chlorinator systems
- Saline or brackish water applications
⚠️ Important: Stainless steel heat exchangers should not be used with salt water chlorinators or salt water pools. For these applications, please consider Bowman Titanium or Cupro-Nickel models.
Chemical Limits for Stainless Steel
| Parameter | Recommended Range |
|---|---|
| Free Chlorine | 1.0 – 3.0 ppm |
| pH Level | 7.2 – 7.8 |
| Calcium Hardness | 200 – 1000 ppm |
| Total Alkalinity | 100 – 150 ppm |
| Bromine | 2.0 – 4.0 ppm |
| Chloride | Less than 350 ppm |
🎯 Applications & Use Cases
This high-capacity heat exchanger is designed for demanding pool heating applications:
🏊♂️ Commercial Swimming Pools – Hotels, leisure centres, health clubs, and public pool facilities requiring substantial heating capacity
🏢 Large Aquatic Centres – Multi-pool complexes and sports facilities with high-volume heating demands
🏠 Large Residential Pools – Luxury homes with substantial outdoor or indoor swimming pools up to 250,000 litres
🔥 Boiler Integration – Direct connection to oil, gas, LPG, or biomass boilers for efficient pool heating
⚡ Heat Pump Systems – Compatible with air source or ground source heat pump installations
☀️ Solar Thermal Integration – Works with solar panel arrays at various water temperatures (45°C–70°C)
🏭 Industrial Applications – Process heating and cooling applications requiring high-capacity heat transfer
🔨 Installation Considerations
Mounting & Positioning
- Orientation – Can be mounted horizontally or vertically as required
- Location – Install in a frost-free, dry area with non-aggressive atmosphere
- Access – Ensure adequate space for assembly, disassembly, and maintenance
- Level – Install above or below pool water level as layout permits
Connection Requirements
| Connection Type | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pool Water (In/Out) | 2½” BSP | Threaded connection |
| Boiler/Heating Water | 1¼” BSP | Threaded connection |
| Thermostat Pocket | Ø7 x 52mm | Located at pool water inlet end |
Critical Installation Points
✅ Counter-Flow Configuration – The heat exchanger MUST be installed in counter-flow arrangement where pool water flows in the opposite direction to heating water. Failure to install correctly will reduce performance.
✅ Dosing System Placement – Any automatic dosing systems must be installed AFTER the heat exchanger and BEFORE the pool, incorporating a non-return valve.
✅ Flow Direction – Install downstream of pumping and filtration equipment
✅ Heating Circuit – Boiler/solar water must be pump-assisted with precautions taken to prevent air locks
✅ Thermostat Position – For accurate temperature monitoring, install the thermostat on the pool water INLET to the heat exchanger
⚠️ Professional Installation Recommended – We strongly recommend installation by a qualified plumber or pool heating engineer to ensure 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
✅ 100 Years of Heat Transfer Expertise – Bowman has been manufacturing heat exchangers since the 1920s, with unmatched industry experience
✅ British Manufacturing Quality – Designed and built in Birmingham, UK, to the highest quality standards
✅ Market-Leading Performance – More heat transfer tubes than most competitors, heating pools up to three times faster
✅ Global Track Record – Tens of thousands of units operating reliably worldwide, from domestic spas to Olympic swimming pools
✅ Comprehensive Range – From 20kW domestic units to 1,170kW commercial systems, with Cupro-Nickel, Stainless Steel, and Titanium options
✅ ISO Certified Quality – FM38224 certified manufacturing processes ensuring consistent product excellence
🛒 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
✅ UK-Based Specialist – Dedicated pool and spa equipment supplier with expert product knowledge
✅ Technical Advice – Our team can help you select the right heat exchanger for your specific requirements
✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on genuine Bowman products
✅ Fast UK Delivery – Prompt despatch to get your installation completed quickly
✅ After-Sales Support – Ongoing assistance with spare parts, technical queries, and troubleshooting
✅ Genuine Products – Authorised stockist of authentic Bowman heat exchangers with full warranty coverage
✨ Summary
The Bowman FG100-5115-2S Stainless Steel Heat Exchanger delivers professional-grade 190kW heating capacity for commercial pools and large residential installations up to 250,000 litres. Backed by over 100 years of British manufacturing expertise, this robust unit offers exceptional heat transfer performance, easy maintenance access, and proven reliability. With its compact design, versatile mounting options, and compatibility with boilers, heat pumps, and solar systems, it represents the ideal solution for demanding pool heating applications where performance and durability are paramount.











