Top 10 Cleaning and Inspection Challenges: No. 4
A Comprehensive Guide to TWISTED TUBE Cleaning
With invaluable input from 500 refinery operators across the globe, Tube Tech has compiled a definitive list of the most common obstacles faced by the industry. In this article, we will focus on the challenge voted forth most prevalent: TWISTED TUBE™ Heat Exchangers by Koch Heat Transfer Company.
TWISTED TUBE™ Heat Exchangers offered by Koch have revolutionized the field with their superior heat transfer coefficient. This type of tubular heat exchanger boasts a complex swirl flow on the external shell side, which induces maximum turbulence and leads to improved heat exchange. Additionally, the uniquely twisted tube bore design allows for high and low velocities, ensuring efficient tube-side turbulence. The uniform flow distribution further enhances the overall effectiveness of this remarkable heat exchanger.
With the increasing popularity of Twisted Tube™ heat exchangers, cleaning contractors have faced new and unique challenges. Traditional cleaning methods, including high pressure water jetting and chemical treatments, often struggle to tackle fouling on both the shell and tube sides of these heat exchangers.
The Challenge
When it comes to removing blockages in narrow, twisted tube bores and “cleaning lanes” measuring 3 to 6mm, traditional methods fall short. Additionally, achieving as-new performance requires physically navigating every internal tube bore and external cleaning lane. It is also necessary to clean both the tube and shell side simultaneously to minimize downtime. Furthermore, visual heat exchanger inspection and recording of fouling levels before and after cleaning, as well as Eddy Current and/or IRIS inspections, are essential.
Introducing the Solution
Tube Tech has developed a Micro Bore ShellJeTT™ solution; a remote tube and shell side cleaning technology that revolutionizes the process. With its 360-degree surface contact, this advanced solution effectively removes scale and blockages from deep within the tube bundle. Unique technology is used to clean the internally twisted tube bore, expanding to the required diameter and tube twist configuration. Remote control technology, along with tailored cleaning heads for the tube and shell side, ensures efficient and recoil-free cleaning.
Unbeatable Results and ROI
Clients who have utilised Tube Tech’s Twisted Tube™ Heat Exchanger cleaning service are astounded by the remarkable speed and return on investment. While there may be a slightly higher initial investment, the long-term benefits far outweigh the cleaning costs.
A recent client attested, “We were incredibly impressed with Tube Tech’s performance, witnessing the cleanest bundles since their installation in 2008. Our investment costs were fully recovered within just 4 months.”
Conclusion
To achieve peak heat exchanger performance, adopting state-of-the-art cleaning technology is crucial. By investing in advanced solutions like Micro Bore ShellJeTT™, industries can minimize downtime, improve productivity, and ensure optimal return on investment. Experience the power of cutting-edge technology and witness outstanding results in heat exchanger maintenance.