In order to increase efficiency and lower operating costs, many boiler makers are switching to X-ID enhanced tubing. While X-ID tubes are beneficial for the end user, they can be challenging to install.
As end users strive for increased heat transfer efficiency, customers are often tasked with building vessels that will withstand heavy use and the test of time. This often results in the use of more wear resistant tube sheet and tube materials, such as Inconel, Hastelloy, and Duplex Stainless Steel. While exotic materials often mean longer tube life, they can take a big toll on expander tool life.
The design of a chiller can pose some challenges when it comes to tube installation and maintenance. From the center tube sheet to tube enhancements, special considerations need to be made when choosing the correct tooling for the job.
Tube expansion can be challenging regardless of the application. From inconsistent wall thicknesses to exotic materials, a lot of factors can influence the quality of an expansion. In smaller applications, there can be some additional complexity to the process which makes choosing the right expander more critical.
Elliott Announces A Faster Way To Expand Small Heat Exchanger Tubes New and improved design expands tubes faster than any Elliott expander before, now at a [...]
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.
Expanding tubes after they have been welded can be frustrating for operators. If not rolled properly, tube material can build up and put stress on the weld. In extreme cases the tube material can build up so much that the expander can get stuck in the tube, delaying the job.
Before you can start rolling, you will need to select the right expander for the job. Tube OD, and Wall/BWG will determine the size of the expander. However, there are some other factors to consider, such as tube projection, roll length, reach requirements, space constraints, and whether it’s minimum or average wall tubing.
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.
In general, you want to roll to the lowest wall reduction possible where a tight tube to tube sheet joint can be achieved. The harder the material the less wall reduction required to obtain a tube joint. You should always consult the manufacturer of the heat transfer vessel for specific information before undertaking any maintenance procedures.
