Maintenance
Condenser tube fouling is indicated when the approach temperature (the difference between the condensing refrigerant temperature and the leaving condenser water temperature) is higher than predicted.
If the annual condenser tube inspection indicates that the tubes are fouled, two cleaning methods, mechanical and chemical, can be used to rid the tubes of contaminants.
Use the mechanical cleaning method to remove sludge and loose material from
To clean other types of tubes including
1.Remove the retaining nuts and bolts from the water box covers at each end of the condenser. Use a hoist to lift the covers off the water box. (A threaded connection is provided on each water box cover to allow insertion of an eyebolt).
2.Work a round nylon or brass bristled brush (attached to a rod) in and out of each of the condenser water tubes to loosen the sludge.
3.Thoroughly flush the condenser water tubes with clean water.
Scale deposits are best removed by chemical means. Be sure to consult any qualified chemical house in the area (one familiar with the local water supply’s chemical mineral content) for a recommended cleaning solution suitable for the job. Remember, a standard condenser water circuit is composed solely of copper, cast iron and steel.
CAUTION
Unit Corrosion Damage!
Proper procedures must be followed when using corrosive chemicals to clean water side of unit. It is recommended that the services of a qualified chemical cleaning firm be used. Proper personal protective equipment as recommended by the chemical manufacturer should be used. Refer to the chemicals MSDS sheet for proper safety procedures. Failure to follow proper procedures could result in corrosion damage to the unit and tubes.
IMPORTANT: ALL OF THE
MATERIALS USED IN THE EXTERNAL CIRCULATION SYSTEM, THE QUANTITY OF THE SOLUTION, THE DURATION OF THE CLEANING PERIOD, AND ANY REQUIRED SAFETY PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE APPROVED BY THE COMPANY FURNISHING THE MATERIALS OR PERFORMING THE CLEANING.
REMEMBER, HOWEVER, THAT WHENEVER THE CHEMICAL TUBE CLEANING METHOD IS USED, IT MUST BE FOLLOWED UP WITH MECHANICAL TUBE CLEANING, FLUSHING AND INSPECTION.
Cleaning the Evaporator
Since the evaporator is typically part of a closed circuit, it does not accumulate appreciable amounts of scale or sludge. Normally, cleaning every 3 years is sufficient. However, on open evaporator systems, such as air washers, periodic inspection and cleaning is recommended.
Control Settings and
Adjustments
Time delays and safety control cutout settings need to be checked annually. For control calibration and
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