Boiler tube removal can be an extremely difficult process and the method used will vary depending on the application. The amount of expansion, as well as, the age of the tube and whether or not it was welded will all impact the removal process. Despite the challenging nature of removal, there are a few tips that can help make this tough job a little bit easier.
Confined spaces are one of the most common challenges boilermakers face during tube installation and maintenance. From squeezing into drums, to working in tight utility rooms, space constraints are present in all aspects of the job. In order to get the job done quickly and effectively, it’s important that operators have the proper tooling on hand. Using the wrong tooling can make the job harder and pose safety concerns.
Vienna, VA – April 27, 2022 – ABMA is excited to share that Elliott Tool Technologies, Nationwide Boiler and WARE are the inaugural recipients of the Excellence in Boiler Innovation (EBI) Awards that were presented at BOILER 2022.
Let’s Talk About Boilers: How Often Should They Be Serviced? Whether you are an Industrial Maintenance, or Manufacturing Manager, you have a lot on your plate. [...]
Tubes are welded for many different reasons, such as providing additional leak protection or to carry additional load. Although welds can be beneficial while the vessel is in service, it can cause some challenges during the removal process.
Enhanced surface tubing has grown in popularity in recent years, with many different styles and options available. While enhancements are preferred for efficiency, they can pose some challenges to operators. As a result, it’s important to be aware of best practices before working with enhanced tubes to ensure that the job is done efficiently and without any damage.
There are two motor power sources that are used for expanding tubes mechanically: electric rolling motors and pneumatic rolling motors. Determining what motor to use for a job will depend on operator preference, availability of electricity or air, and the application.
Firetube boiler tubes consist of an expanded and beaded tube end. The method for achieving a bead has advanced over the years to include both hand beading and single roll beading expanders. In order to ensure a proper bead, there are several steps that need to take place before expansion can occur.
Single roll beading expanders simultaneously expand and bead the tube ends in firetube boiler applications. This tool accomplishes the creation of a pressure-tight tube-to-tube sheet joint, and a beaded tube end, by utilizing the natural feed force built into the expander to push the beading roll against the end of the tube while expansion is taking place. The successful operation of these expanders can be achieved by following a few simple steps.
Elliott offers the 445 Series Motors in both roll and lever throttle for tube sizes 2.000” (50.8mm) to 4.000” (101.6mm) to suit your tube expansion needs. The powerful 445 Series Motors are ideal for tough boiler tube applications. The right angle heads are suited for rolling tubes in hard to reach, tight areas.
