A boiler can continue to operate even when it is not performing at the expected efficiency level. One reason for the poor performance of the boiler tubes is due to the buildup of Combustion residue and scale inside the boiler tubes. Combustion residues are created as a result of the combustion process within the boiler tubes, while the scale that forms inside the boiler tubes is due to the presence of minerals in the water that form deposits inside the boiler tubes. Both types of buildup can reduce the efficiency of the heat that is transferred through the boiler tubes. Using boiler tube cleaners as part of a regular maintenance plan can help to prevent these issues.
What Builds Up Inside Boiler Tubes?
The type of deposit that builds up inside the boiler tubes depends upon the operating conditions of the boiler. Soot deposits tend to form on the boiler tubes that are exposed to the flue gases from the combustion of the fuels, while scale deposits form on the boiler tubes that are exposed to the water. Both forms of deposit lead to a decrease in the efficiency of heat transfer, which can be restored using effective tube cleaners.
The increase in the consumption of fuel for the boiler may be due to the dirty boiler tubes. However, there are many other causes for the increase in fuel consumption and performance of the boiler, and so a careful inspection of the boiler tubes and other components of the boiler is required.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Tool
A brush is usually sufficient to clean the boiler tubes of soot deposits. For scale deposits, which are more difficult to remove from the boiler tubes, a cutting tool will have to be used to remove the deposits.
The diameter of the boiler tubes, the material of the boiler tubes, the length of the boiler tubes and the shape of the boiler tubes all determine the specialized tube cleaners that can be used to clean the boiler tubes effectively.
The use of the wrong cleaning tool inside the boiler tubes can lead to the damage of the boiler tubes. For example, using a cutting tool that is not suited for the diameter of the boiler tubes can lead to the cutting of the boiler tubes. Using a brush that is not suitable for the length of the boiler tubes can lead to deposits remaining inside the boiler tubes. Therefore, using the appropriate cleaning tools will help to remove any deposits while also reducing the risk of damage to the boiler tubes.
Cleaning Is Only Part of Maintenance
When a boiler requires frequent cleaning, removing the deposits may improve its efficiency but only for a limited time. Deposits can form due to poor water treatment or the formation of soot in the combustion chamber.
Inspecting the boiler before and after cleaning helps identify the type of deposit and choose the correct cleaning tools for the boiler’s tubes. This inspection also informs teams of the condition of the tubes and helps plan the frequency of cleaning.
Conclusion
One of the most important tasks in the upkeep of steam facilities is the cleaning of boiler tubes. Cleaning the boiler tubes removes the scale and deposits that affect the facility’s heat transfer performance. It is essential that the appropriate tools are chosen to accomplish the task, as well as that the causes of the scale and deposits are identified and eliminated prior to beginning cleaning. The facility’s boiler tubes can be inspected for any problems that may contribute to the performance of the steam facility prior to any decline in performance from the boiler tubes.
Powermaster manufactures boiler tube cleaners for industrial boilers. The company provides the appropriate tools for cleaning the boiler tubes and can assist facility management teams in eliminating the causes of scale and deposit buildup in the boiler tubes.