Services > Specialty Custom Solutions > EPIC® Finned Tube Offline Cleaning
EPIC® HRSG and Industrial Furnace Off-line Cleaning
The EPIC® Extraction Pressure Impulse Cleaner is revolutionizing EPIC® HRSG and Industrial Furnace Off-line Cleaning. This off-line cleaning technology uses safe, effective and directly targeted impulse cleaning energy to remove deposits deep within and throughout tube bundles. The patent-pending cleaning procedure that is employed systematically concentrates its affect just to the fouled tube sections, with no indiscriminate blasting impact to the surrounding area, nor mechanical fatigue to the tubes or superstructure.
This type of cleaning system has been used effectively for over a decade for on-line boiler cleaning including HRSGs. IMPULSE® pressure waves are generated in a controlled, pulsed manner, safely within a 3-inch system chamber to direct cleaning waves into surfaces where debris has collected. EPIC® utilizes pressure waves to create a high amplitude particle displacement to resonate and dislodge particulate deposits. This creates a very targeted, deep 360° cleaning so heat transfer efficiency can be restored.
Read the case study below to learn how combined-cycle facilities are regaining 3-6 inches of pressure drop and improving their bottom line by $600,000 or more annually.
Safely and cost-effectively mitigate dust.
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Significantly reduced CT back pressure Optimizes heat rate efficiency Reduced confined space entry Eliminates scaffolding On-site, in-situ component assembly, typically ~2 hours/setup Targeted impulses create deep, penetrating & encompassing 360° cleaning No mechanical integrity damage to tubes, expansion joints, baffles, refractory or other components No mechanical tube stretching or spreading required; pressure waves achieve 360° coverage Energy is directionally controlled and focused directly into and through the module harps Typically, considerably reduced outage duration compared to alternative methods Proven on-line cleaning technology for 15+ years supported by multiple US & International patents No need for regulatory permits or neighborhood pre-notification of disrupted blast or bursting events. Extends the life between costly retubing projects. |
Problem
A large combined cycle utility plant in the SE was experiencing substantially reduced efficiency and performance from their HRSG due to the insulating and CT back pressure effects from excessive deposits on and deep within the finned tube bundles. Prior cleanings performed, typically every other year, had not been sufficiently effective.
Solution
The plant researched multiple options to achieve a more effective and penetrating means to clean all their bundles downstream of the SCR and selected the patented EPIC technology that safely utilizes a series of repeated and concentrated dynamic shockwave cleaning impulses directly and deeply into the tube bank. The cleaning is coordinated via a remotely controlled navigation system with all personnel located safely outside of the HRSG unit.
Several unique features include:
- Real time visual observation from 6 camera positions monitored within the ground level command center module.
- Progressive back pressure reduction of each segment, as its being cleaned, is also captured and trended in the control module.
- Before and after borescope videos proved the visual results
- Multiple pneumatic vibrators used as subtle additional motivation of dislodged material to drop to grade level for its removal
Reduced outage time compared to alternative methods
Why EPIC Over Other Methods
Safe for Your Entire Unit
EPIC’s impulses are highly targeted through the tube bundle and do not cause any damage to the mechanical integrity of the tubes. Plus, there is no violent shock or indiscriminate blast impact to the HRSG structure. In addition, the tubes will never be stretched or spread.
No Pre-Cleaning Work
No scaffolding is required nor tube spreading, or other modifications are necessary to gain access for cleaning. Minimal site support resources are needed.
Reduced Cleaning Time
Utilizing the advanced EPIC technology, with remote positioning and activation of the IMPULSE cleaning equipment, results in reduced overall outage duration as well as confined space exposure compared to several other methods. The service is also complemented by the post-cleaning removal of the considerable dislodged debrisby incorporating Thompson’s own vacuuming equipment and personnel, rather than orchestrating additional arrangements with yet another contractor for the turnkey HRSG cleaning project.
EPIC™ and IMPULSE® are the property of PowerPlus Cleaning Systems, Inc. Thompson Industrial Services, with over 30 years of cleaning experience, proudly executes the EPIC technology in the field.
Downloads
EPIC HRSG Pressure Wave Cleaning Technology
EPIC HRSG Cleaning Technology Example Results
