Steam-heat exchangers are used to raise the temperature of well effluents to prevent hydrate formation, reduce viscosity, and break down emulsions for efficient separation of oil and water. Because steam-heat exchangers drastically reduce risk, they are used on offshore platforms and in other work conditions where safety regulations do not permit the use of indirect-fired heaters.

Heat exchangers are used to transfer heat from one medium to another. These media may be a gas, liquid, or a combination of both. The media may be separated by a solid wall to prevent mixing or may be in direct contact.