Can Any Thickness of Plate Be Serviced on PHEs?
Plate and frame heat exchangers (PHEs) are critical for efficient heat transfer in industries like HVAC, food processing, and power generation. Their plates, typically ranging from 0.4mm to 1.0mm in thickness, are prone to fouling and wear, requiring regular servicing.
A common question is: Can any thickness of plate be serviced on PHEs?
Yes, PHE plates of various thicknesses can be serviced, but the process requires careful consideration to avoid damage
Understanding PHE Plate Thickness
PHE plates, often made of stainless steel or titanium, vary in thickness (e.g., 0.4mm for high-efficiency units, 0.7mm or thicker for durability. Thinner plates (0.4mm) are more delicate, while thicker plates withstand higher pressures but may be harder to clean due to complex fouling patterns.
How Are PHE Plates Serviced?
Servicing methods for PHE plates include:
- Clean-in-Place (CIP): CIP systems, circulating chemicals like citric acid dissolve scale without disassembly, suitable for all plate thicknesses.
- Chemical Flushing: Heat Exchanger Ontario uses portable units to circulate mild acid solutions for 6–8 hours, effective for 0.4mm to 1.0mm plates, though hardened scale may require additional methods.
- High-Pressure Water Jetting: For severe fouling, T.H. Industrial Solutions employs a 10 hp gas pressure washer, but thin plates (0.4mm) risk denting or puncturing if pressure exceeds safe limits.
- Inspection and Testing: Dye penetrant testing, used by T.H. Industrial Solutions, detects cracks or pinholes, critical for thin plates prone to the “pop can effect” (flexing-induced cracking).
Risks and Considerations by Plate Thickness
- Thin Plates (0.4mm): Highly susceptible to damage from high-pressure jetting or aggressive chemicals Over-tightening during reassembly can deform gasket grooves
- Thicker Plates (0.7mm–1.0mm): More durable but may retain stubborn fouling, requiring combined chemical and mechanical cleaning
- Material Compatibility: Chemicals must match plate materials (e.g., titanium or stainless steel) to avoid corrosion
- Environmental Compliance: Spent chemicals must be neutralized
Effectiveness of Servicing Across Plate Thicknesses
Servicing restores efficiency by removing fouling, which can cause a 20% thermal efficiency loss even at paper-thin levels. CIP is effective for all thicknesses, while high-pressure cleaning suits thicker plates better. Regular servicing every 5–6 years or at 7–10 psi differential pressure prevents severe fouling
Conclusion
PHE plates of any thickness can be serviced using CIP, chemical flushing, or high-pressure jetting, but thinner plates require extra care to avoid damage. Industry leaders like T.H. Industrial Solutions offer tailored services to ensure safe, effective maintenance.
