How to address internal leakage in plate heat exchangers
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How should internal leakage in plate heat exchangers be addressed? Last edited by Love in the Rain on 2009-4-5 08:14]
This is a disadvantage of plate heat exchangers: due to the thin internal partitions, internal leakage is likely to occur. In such a situation, work should be stopped and the manufacturer should be contacted for handling
Replace the leaking gaskets or reduce the number of gaskets, and then purchase an appropriate amount of spare gaskets and plates.
There are two types of internal leakage: one is caused by damaged plates, and the other is due to inadequate sealing of the gaskets. Each case must be handled separately – replace the plates if they are damaged, and replace the gaskets if their sealing is insufficient; also check the sealing grooves.
Plate heat exchangers have thin partitions, and if they corrode, internal leakage can occur easily; our factory has experienced such a situation.
There are two types of plate heat exchangers: one is brazed, and the other is detachable. Internal leaks in brazed heat exchangers cannot be repaired; a new unit must be replaced. In detachable heat exchangers, the plates can be replaced
The main cause of internal leakage is generally cracks or perforations in the plates. Inspection method: During normal operation, open the low-pressure side outlet vent to check whether a second liquid is present. If the system is shut down for cleaning, there are several ways to inspect the plates: coloring method: use a coloring agent for inspection. Translucency method: A light source is placed on one side, and the inspection is carried out from the other side. Single-sided pressure testing method: Apply water pressure on one side up to 0.4 MPa (gauge pressure); if there is water at the lowest point on the other side, quickly remove the inspection piece to check the wet area. Replace the plates or gaskets according to the actual situation (if replacement is not necessary, simply remove the faulty plate or gasket and avoid installing it).