PHE Polymer can provide cleaning services for your plate heat exchanger. We can help your company with the following:
Preparation
Before cleaning, it is essential to prepare the PHE by isolating it from the system and draining all fluids. Ensure that the PHE is completely cooled down to avoid any risk of burns. Disassemble the PHE by removing the bolts and separating the plates. This will allow access to the gaskets for thorough cleaning.
Mechanical Cleaning
Mechanical cleaning involves using tools such as brushes, scrapers, or high-pressure water jets to remove any debris, scale, or corrosion from the gaskets and plate surfaces. Be careful not to damage the gaskets during this process. For stubborn deposits, chemical cleaning agents may be used in conjunction with mechanical cleaning.
Chemical Cleaning
Chemical cleaning is often necessary to remove organic deposits, scale, or corrosion. The choice of cleaning agent depends on the type of deposit and the material of the gaskets. Common cleaning agents include acids, alkalis, and solvents. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the safe use of chemical cleaning agents. After chemical cleaning, thoroughly rinse the gaskets and plates with clean water to remove any residual chemicals.
Ultrasonic Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaning uses high-frequency sound waves to agitate a cleaning solution, effectively removing contaminants from the gaskets and plate surfaces. This method is particularly useful for removing fine particles and deposits that are difficult to remove with mechanical or chemical cleaning alone. Ultrasonic cleaning is gentle on the gaskets and plates, making it a preferred method for delicate components.
Drying and Reassembly
After cleaning, allow the gaskets and plates to dry completely. Ensure that there is no moisture left, as this can affect the sealing performance. Once dry, reassemble the PHE by carefully aligning the plates and installing new gaskets if necessary. Tighten the bolts to the recommended torque specifications to ensure proper sealing.
Post-Cleaning Inspection
After reassembly, perform a post-cleaning inspection to ensure that the gaskets are properly seated and there are no leaks. Conduct a final leak test and monitor the operational performance of the PHE to confirm that it is functioning correctly.