May 23, 2024
HEAT EXCHANGER FAILURE
EVENT REPORTED by SAM GUARD®
Detected a problem with a Heat Exchanger.
The caustic soda inlet flow rate to the heat exchanger experienced a sudden decrease, which was then accompanied by a drop in the heat exchanger’s outlet temperature.
MAINTENANCE TEAM FINDINGS
An on-site inspection revealed a leak in the heat exchanger.
Frequent occurrences of leaks in the heat exchanger, caused by corrosive substances, are resulting in a reduction in heating/cooling efficiency and an increase in energy expenses.
COST / DOWNTIME AVOIDED
The estimated cost of the potential failure ranged between €10,000 and €50,000. However, pinpointing the exact value is challenging as a total breakdown was averted.
CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
“Preventing the safety hazard resulting from the leakage was crucial, and it proved beneficial that the alert was issued two hours before a DCS alarm.”