Top 10 tips
Field-oriented checklists for keeping process equipment reliable and efficient. Pick a topic below.
Ten tips to keep gasketed plate heat exchangers in top condition
This supplied Alfa Laval guide sets out ten service practices to protect heat-transfer performance, operational reliability and equipment life.
- 1Service it regularly
The exchanger is vital to your process. Regular servicing keeps it performing like new and delivers the best return on investment.
- 2Monitor operating conditions
Keep temperatures, pressures and flow rates within design limits. Trending them reveals performance loss that wastes energy and raises CO₂.
- 3Start up and shut down properly
Vent the unit at start-up and open/close valves slowly to prevent pressure surges and water hammer.
- 4Protect it upstream
Use filters, strainers and back-flushing upstream to shield the plates from debris and minimise fouling.
- 5Run a condition audit
Assess remaining plate and gasket life so maintenance can be planned proactively instead of reacting to a leak.
- 6Run a performance audit
Audit the unit while running to identify issues and get the right cleaning recommendation — CIP, reconditioning or manual.
- 7Prefer cleaning-in-place
Where feasible, CIP extends gasket and plate life, cuts labour and downtime. Reserve reconditioning for moderate-to-heavy fouling.
- 8Manual clean with care
When hydro-jetting or brushing, tighten to the correct specification and follow the plate-hanging list to avoid damage and malfunction.
- 9Stock spare parts
Keep spares for critical exchangers so a component failure never turns into prolonged, expensive downtime.
- 10Use original spare parts
Original gaskets and plates guarantee performance, reliability and long service life.