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.
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.
Historically, many railroad companies used steam locomotives for transportation. Today, most steam locomotives are reserved for private rails, museums, and other charity organizations. As these systems age, they present several unique maintenance challenges that can arise due to the design and location of these units. Understanding the composition of locomotive boilers, as well as the maintenance needs, can make restoration jobs a little bit easier.
Tube cleaning is a necessary part of any vessel maintenance process. Depending on the application, water, gases, and other caustic chemicals can be run through the unit. Overtime, these compounds cause deposit build-up inside of the tubes, resulting in a loss in operating efficiency.
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 needing to use and install mechanical tube plugs, having the correct tools for the job can make it easier and quicker to get the job. Below are step by step instructions to help overcome this challenge.
Training programs can benefit to all organizations, especially, those in competitive markets. From improving operator retention, boosting productivity, and cutting job costs, training is a great investment to ensure your staff is up to date on all the latest industry practices.
Pneumatic tools are utilized in a variety of tube tool applications from expansion to cleaning. While the power source is often determined based on operator preference, there are some applications where air may be required or preferred over electric. However, to get the best life and performance out of pneumatic tooling, it’s important that the quality of air and the amount used is regulated correctly.
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.
