Tube Sheet Waterjet Cutting in Chennai
In today’s world, all manufacturing processes have to meet three main objectives: increase production, reduce waste and improve quality. Processes such as 3D printing, sheet forming, injection moulding, laser and plasma cutting try to achieve these goals at reduced cost and production times while increasing efficiency and sustainability at the same time.
Every one of those processes has its place in the manufacturing industry due to various benefits and limitations. Modern waterjet cutters have also incorporated CNC technology into their design to meet these goals with even better results.
Tube sheet waterjet cleaners can be categorized into function by application:
Tube sheet waterjet Cleaners-tube cleaning demands vary widely by application Shell and tube heat exchangers, condensers and chillers: Modern methods involve pneumatic or electric motors to pulsate the brush automatically with a medium pressure water jet to further clean out residual deposits.
Tube Testers- Use air pressure or vacuum to test for leaks, cracks, and material failures in a tube. Both manual activated and air activated models are available. To test for leaks in tubes, two operators are required with an operator at each end of the vessel.
- Step 1 – Seal the tube at both ends.
- Step 2 – Build air pressure or vacuum in the tube.
- Step 3 – Observe gauge to see if air pressure is dropping or vacuum is not holding.
Tube Plugs (Repair)- To regain efficiency of a heat exchanger or chiller, tube plugs are installed to take leaky tubes out of service. The rule of thumb is that a vessel will need to be retuned after approximately 10% of the tubes have been plugged. Tubes need to be plugged at both ends of the pressure vessel.
It is a good practice to: Install a plug that is the same as or a compatible material to the tube and tube sheet. Puncture the leaky tube using a one revolution tube cutter to relieve back pressure. Some contractors weld the tube plugs to the tube sheet after they are installed to permanently secure the plugs in place.
