Client requested a change in metallurgy for improved corrosion resistance. A large Type 316L Stainless Steel (SS) shell and tube heat exchanger had been in service for 3½ years and was in the process of being re-tubed for the third time! Severe erosion corrosion was occurring over most of the SS inlet tube sheet and tube ends with a nominal 185 degree F. inlet gas temperature. Outlet gas temperature was approximately 150 degree F. No corrosion was noted on the outlet tube sheet or on 99 percent of the tubes. Recommended heat exchanger orientation and piping changes to avoid reoccurrence. No change in metallurgy was required. Made additional recommendations to reduce maintenance on a packed column which was subject to scaling.
Client requested a change in metallurgy for improved corrosion resistance. A large Type 316L Stainless Steel (SS) shell and tube heat exchanger had been in service for 3½ years and was in the process of being re-tubed for the third time! Severe erosion corrosion was occurring over most of the SS inlet tube sheet and tube ends with a nominal 185 degree F. inlet gas temperature. Outlet gas temperature was approximately 150 degree F. No corrosion was noted on the outlet tube sheet or on 99 percent of the tubes. Recommended heat exchanger orientation and piping changes to avoid reoccurrence. No change in metallurgy was required. Made additional recommendations to reduce maintenance on a packed column which was subject to scaling.