How Intercoolers and Subcoolers Power the Compression Industry

Whether you're fueling a city or moving massive volumes of gas across a pipeline, compression is the heartbeat of both industrial gas and power generation systems. But with high compression comes high heat—and that's where intercoolers and subcoolers prove their worth, day in and day out.

At Genemco, we’ve been helping facilities large and small find reliable, high-quality used intercoolers and subcoolers for decades. We carry industry-trusted brands like E.L. Nickell Co., RVS, RECO, FES, Frick, Vilter, and many more—so you don’t have to compromise on quality or value.

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Let’s take a closer look at how these components keep things cool under extreme pressure in two of the world’s most demanding industries.


Intercoolers & Subcoolers in the Industrial Gas Compression Industry

In gas compression systems, whether you're working with air, nitrogen, CO₂, natural gas, or other gases, the compression process generates substantial heat. As gases are compressed, their temperature increases significantly, which can put enormous stress on the system.

Intercoolers play a critical role in reducing this heat between compression stages. By cooling the gas before it moves to the next compression level, they:

  • Improve energy efficiency

  • Reduce wear and tear on compressors

  • Make downstream equipment safer and more effective

  • Help facilities meet environmental and performance standards

Subcoolers, meanwhile, are used in systems where refrigerants or liquids are part of the cooling or compression cycle. They lower refrigerant temperature below its normal condensing point, which increases cooling capacity and system efficiency.

In practical terms, that means:

  • More efficient cooling for dehydration units, separators, and gas treating systems

  • Lower operational costs

  • Extended equipment life


In Power Generation, Cooler Means Stronger

In power plants—especially those using turbine or engine-driven compressors—intercoolers and subcoolers are essential. These systems rely on large volumes of compressed air and gas to operate efficiently. If that air gets too hot, combustion becomes less effective, equipment strains, and overall performance drops.

By reducing the temperature of compressed air before it enters the combustion chamber, intercoolers help:

  • Increase power output

  • Improve combustion efficiency

  • Reduce emissions

  • Lower the risk of equipment failure during peak demand

Subcoolers also support cooling loops, turbine auxiliary systems, and heat recovery cycles, ensuring critical systems stay within safe temperature ranges.

So whether you’re powering a remote community or supporting an energy grid, intercoolers and subcoolers are key to performance and reliability.


Real Equipment for Real-World Demands

The common thread in both industries? These systems can’t afford failure. That's why facility managers, engineers, and maintenance teams across North America turn to Genemco for high-performance cooling components they can count on—without the high cost or lead times of buying new.

We specialize in tested, quality used intercoolers and subcoolers that meet industry demands and budget realities. Our inventory features top-tier brands like:

  • Frick

  • FES

  • Vilter

  • RECO

  • RVS

  • E.L. Nickell Co., and many more


Why Genemco?

We’re more than a supplier—we’re a partner. When you're working with tight deadlines, system upgrades, or emergency replacements, our team is here to help you find the right solution quickly and confidently.

  • Large inventory of ready-to-ship equipment

  • Expert support from people who understand your application

  • Fair pricing and trusted performance


Let’s Keep Your System Running Cool

At Genemco, we know how important it is to keep things moving without overheating. If you're in the gas compression or power generation industry and looking to replace or upgrade an intercooler or subcooler, we’ve got the equipment—and the experience—to help you get it done right.

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Link to Intercoolers & Subcoolers

👉 Explore our inventory at Genemco.com, or reach out to speak with a team member. We’re here to help you stay cool under pressure.