Heat Exchanger Tube Cracks
Due to the effects of heavy thermal cycling, surface cracks may develop on the upper tubesheet of shell and tube heat exchangers. These cracks occur where the tubes and tube sleeves are welded together. In more extreme cases, these circumferential cracks cause the heat exchanger tube to drop and create a drastic air leak between the shell and tube air flows. This loss in airflow can then cause bed fluidization troubles and forces a plant shutdown. CBE has extensive experience in diagnosing these heat exchanger leaks and specifying necessary repairs to be able to resume operations. |