As core equipment for heat exchange in industrial production, the operating status of shell-and-tube heat exchangers directly affects production efficiency and energy consumption. Scientific maintenance not only extends equipment service life but also avoids losses caused by unplanned downtime. Below are the key maintenance points explained in detail.
1. Regular Cleaning: Remove Fouling, Keep Heat Exchange Channels Unobstructed
Fouling, oil stains, and medium residues easily accumulate on the inner walls of heat exchangers, reducing heat exchange efficiency. It is recommended to set cleaning cycles based on medium characteristics: clean every 3–6 months for scenarios with poor water quality, and every 6–12 months for oil-based media. Cleaning can be done via chemical methods (using compatible cleaning agents to avoid equipment corrosion) or physical flushing (high-pressure water jetting, mechanical scraping) to ensure the tube side and shell side are unobstructed.
2. Corrosion Protection: Strengthen the Equipment's "Protective Barrier"
Most industrial media contain corrosive components, making corrosion protection a priority. Daily checks should verify the integrity of coatings and linings, with timely repairs for damages. For carbon steel equipment, regular anti-corrosion coating or cathodic protection can be applied. Additionally, control the medium's pH value to prevent direct contact with strong acids or alkalis on the inner walls.
3. Sealing Inspection: Eliminate Leakage Risks
Aging or damaged seals are common faults in heat exchangers. Regularly inspect flange sealing surfaces, gaskets, and tube sheet connections for leakage traces. When replacing seals, use matching models and ensure tight fitting during installation to avoid medium mixing or energy loss due to poor sealing.
4. Reference for Scientific Maintenance Cycles
Daily inspections: Check pressure and temperature parameters daily and record operating status.
Quarterly maintenance: Focus on cleaning, sealing inspections, and instrument calibration.
Annual overhauls: Conduct comprehensive disassembly inspections, replace aging components, and perform pressure testing to ensure the equipment meets operational standards.
Professional maintenance is key to the stable and efficient operation of shell-and-tube heat exchangers. For customized maintenance plans or professional services, contact our technical team for one-stop operation and maintenance support, ensuring your equipment continues to create greater value!
