PLANT MANAGEMENT
Measuring the level of carbon in the system is key to understanding the degree of system fouling. If the thermal fl uid expert detects high levels of carbon deposits, it suggests that there is more carbon in the system, which can harden in the pipes, acting as an insulator. As a result, the entire system heat transfer effi ciency will reduce and more energy is required to heat up the system. Manufacturers should consider how they can prevent carbon build-up as it can create hot spots that accelerate wear on the pipes and increase the risk of leaks. Analytical chemists will then test the total acid number (TAN). If there is a high level of acid in the fl uid, it can lead to increased corrosion of the system and accelerated carbon creation. By measuring this parameter, manufacturers can understand how the fl uid impacts the
Testing is crucial for regulatory compliance reasons
pipes of the system, ensuring that they can slow down degradation and reduce the frequency of scheduled maintenance needed to replace corroded parts. Particulate quantity and iron tests highlight the degradation of components of the heat transfer system. Both tests can show signs that there is wear in the system that needs addressing so that manufacturers can intervene before the wear turns into a dangerous leak. Manufacturers should also look at the
results of the Pensky-Martens Closed Cup fl ash point, Cleveland Open Cup fl ash point and fi re point tests to reduce health and safety risks. T e industry standard suggests that closed fl ash point of the fl uid cannot be below 100°C, because it means the fl uid could ignite at lower temperatures, so these tests are vital to understanding if the fl uid is safe for use.
Analytical chemists conduct sample testing at their impartial labs
REPORTING Once analysis is complete, the thermal fl uid expert delivers a report to the plant manager, organising points into cautions, actions, or serious fi ndings. At this point engineers can take the recommendations and plan interventions based on the priorities in the report. Making a record of each result will also help plant managers in the long term. By monitoring thermal fl uid condition over time and looking for trends, helping them to anticipate when the system will require maintenance before downtime occurs. Maintaining an effi cient heat transfer system is integral to productivity, so unlike domestic pipes where a blockage may cause a minor overfl ow, manufacturers should consider how they can eff ectively monitor fl uid inside the system. T ermal fl uid testing can be complex, so manufacturers can work with thermal fl uid experts, such as Global Heat Transfer, to ensure they complete the process eff ectively and get an accurate representation of what’s happening inside the system. For example, by including Global Heat Transfer’s T ermocare as part of a preventative maintenance programme that aligns with the ATEX triangle, experts can off er both on-site and remote technical support to help manufacturers rapidly sample and analyse fl uid. From this, manufacturers can track fl uid condition, anticipate and resolve issues quickly and implement preventative measures to extend fl uid lifespan, reduce downtime and the facility’s environmental impact, and ensure system compliance.
Clive Jones is managing director of Global Heat Transfer.
www.globalhtf.com
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