Tube removal is a common challenge regardless of the application. In air cooled exchangers, the layout of the tubes, as well as the outer diameter of the fins, could pose some challenges if using traditional methods. However, there are a few tips to make this process quicker.
Tube removal can be a daunting task, especially when encountering challenges like corrosion or tight spaces. One of the most frustrating situations operators face is the inability to pull a tube using a hydraulic puller. This article explores the four primary reasons behind this issue and offers simple solutions to overcome them.
The abundance of tube cleaning methods on the market can make it challenging to select the best option for a specific application. While factors like vessel type and deposit composition are crucial, it’s equally important to consider the limitations of each cleaning method.
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.
Grooved tube sheets are the standard in most shell and tube heat exchanger applications. Providing both leak protection and improving the tube-to-tube sheet joints, grooves play an important role in prolonging the life of a tube and the efficiency of a vessel. However, in few applications where grooves are not required, there can be challenges during the tube expansion process.
Tube patterns describe how the tube holes are distributed through a tube sheet. Manipulating tube patterns helps increase flow but these modifications can create challenges for tube expansion.
Dunn Heat Exchanger, Inc., a fabrication company located in Texas City, Texas, offers heat exchanger cleaning, decontamination, repair, and fabrication services in the highly competitive shell and tube market.
To get the best performance out of a vessel it’s important that it maintains necessary operating capacity. While there are several preventative maintenance procedures that can prolong the life of the vessel, eventually a decision on retubing or replacing the unit will need to be made.
When it comes to removing tubes, there are many different options to choose from. Hydraulic or automated pulling options can be a great way to speed up the job, reduce tube sheet damage, and improve operator ergonomics. However, before selecting a pulling package, it’s important to consider the vessel type, tube condition, and space constraints
In recent years, the use of exotic materials in heat exchanger tubing has become a lot more common. While these materials are great for working in tough conditions, they can have be very challenging to work with as they often require more tooling and job time. This is especially true in tube removal where pulling spears are used. Tapping spears have become an effective way to overcome many of these issues.
