Chicago FD special operations apparatus (part 1 of 4)

June 24, 2025

Several contributors recently had the chance to tour the CFD Special Operations warehouse located at 39th & Honore, where they captured a series of photos showcasing the specialized equipment and apparatus stored there. These images were taken by Dennis McGuire, Jr., who provided a detailed look into the department's unique fleet.
Chicago Fire Department Special Operations

Haz Mat 5-1-3 is a 2002 Ford F-350/American LaFrance Medic Master. This is an “Ex” Training Ambulance used at the Fire Academy. Dennis McGuire, Jr. photo

Chicago Fire Department Special Operations

CFD Special Operations support unit 5-6-4 is a 2010 Ford F-550/Auto Truck Inc. Shop ID G-578. Dennis McGuire, Jr. photo

Chicago Fire Department Special Operations

CFD 5-6-7 is a support unit that transports any of the four POD units. This is a 2008 Freightliner M2/H.C.I. Fabrications Roll Off truck with a 3000-pound capacity. Shop ID# G-570. Dennis McGuire, Jr. photo

Chicago Fire Department Special Operations

New Deluge Wagon 6-7-3 is awaiting deployment to Engine 108’s station. Dennis McGuire, Jr. photo

The photos offer a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes operations of the Chicago Fire Department’s Special Operations unit, highlighting their readiness and versatility in responding to a wide range of emergencies. Each vehicle serves a specific purpose, from hazmat response to heavy equipment transport, ensuring that the department is always prepared for any situation.

Plate Heat Exchanger

Plate Heat Exchangers (PHEs) are compact, efficient devices used to transfer heat between two fluids without mixing them. They are widely used in industries such as HVAC, chemical processing, food and beverage, and power generation. Below is a detailed classification of Plate Heat Exchangers based on their design, construction, and application:

1. Based on Construction and Design

  • Gasketed Plate Heat Exchangers:

    • Consist of multiple plates with gaskets to seal the edges and create flow channels.

    • Easy to disassemble for cleaning, maintenance, or capacity adjustment.

    • Suitable for moderate temperature and pressure applications.

  • Brazed Plate Heat Exchangers:

    • Plates are brazed together using copper or nickel, creating a compact and leak-proof unit.

    • Ideal for high-pressure and high-temperature applications.

    • Commonly used in refrigeration and HVAC systems.

  • Welded Plate Heat Exchangers:

    • Plates are welded together, eliminating the need for gaskets.

    • Suitable for corrosive fluids, high temperatures, or high pressures.

    • Used in chemical, oil, and gas industries.

  • Semi-Welded Plate Heat Exchangers:

    • Combines welded and gasketed plates.

    • One fluid path is welded (for aggressive fluids), and the other is gasketed (for less aggressive fluids).

    • Ideal for applications requiring a balance between durability and maintenance flexibility.

  • Fully Welded Plate Heat Exchangers:

    • All plates are welded together, providing a robust and leak-proof design.

    • Suitable for extreme conditions, such as high temperatures, pressures, or corrosive environments.

      2. Based on Flow Configuration

      • Single-Pass Plate Heat Exchangers:

        • Fluids pass through the heat exchanger once.

        • Simple design with lower pressure drop.

      • Multi-Pass Plate Heat Exchangers:

        • Fluids pass through the heat exchanger multiple times.

        • Increases heat transfer efficiency but may result in higher pressure drop.

          3. Based on Application

          • HVAC Plate Heat Exchangers:

            • Used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

            • Efficient for heat recovery, chillers, and heat pumps.

          • Industrial Plate Heat Exchangers:

            • Designed for industrial processes such as chemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries.

            • Handles high temperatures, pressures, and corrosive fluids.

          • Refrigeration Plate Heat Exchangers:

            • Used in refrigeration systems for evaporators or condensers.

            • Compact and efficient for low-temperature applications.

          • District Energy Plate Heat Exchangers:

            • Connects to district heating or cooling networks.

            • High-capacity and energy-efficient.

              4. Based on Plate Material

              • Stainless Steel Plates:

                • Corrosion-resistant and durable.

                • Suitable for most applications, including food and beverage industries.

              • Titanium Plates:

                • Highly resistant to corrosion, especially in seawater or chloride environments.

                • Used in marine or chemical industries.

              • Nickel Plates:

                • Resistant to high temperatures and corrosive fluids.

                • Ideal for chemical processing or oil and gas industries.

Plate Heat Exchanger,Plate Type Heat Exchanger,Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger,Plate Fin Heat Exchanger

Siping Juyuan Hanyang Plate Heat Exchanger Co., Ltd , https://www.tj-heatexchange.com