Case Studies
Improving Heat Exchanger Leakage Using 3500 VALVELON
Challenge
Background
At a chemical plant, leakage from tube-type heat exchangers was occurring frequently. The heat exchangers in use had threaded tube sections, and gaskets from another manufacturer were being used.
Root Cause
The competitor’s gaskets combined metal gaskets with expanded graphite gaskets. However, due to insufficient flexibility, they could not adequately seal the threaded areas, resulting in leakage.
Before improvements: approximately 80% of the holes were leaking.
Solution
Recommended Product
A PTFE gasket was installed deep inside the stuffing box as an anti-extrusion measure, and 3500 VALVELON was then packed in over it.
Chesterton 3500 VALVELON is a high-purity PTFE sealant with excellent flexibility and high-pressure resistance, providing strong adhesion to the sealing surfaces.
In addition, by tightening the gland follower fitted with 800 GoldEnd high-purity PTFE seal tape, the 3500 VALVELON was compressed and conformed tightly into the threaded areas, delivering even higher sealing performance.
Chesterton 3500 VALVELON.
Results
Improved Reliability
Compared with the previous configuration, the tube leak points identified during the periodic inspections conducted every three years have been switched over to the new specification one by one, and leakage at the modified locations has been resolved.
Reduced Replacement Effort and Cost
Because the number of tubes requiring gasket replacement decreased, the workload on maintenance staff was reduced and the associated replacement costs were also lowered.
Proposed 3500 Valvelon Specification.
About Us
Chesterton® is a world leader in helping process industry companies and manufacturers improve the reliability and efficiency of their rotating, stationary, and fluid power equipment platforms. We are known across a wide range of industries for our award-winning pump and valve sealing solutions, applications expertise, equipment maintenance and wear-prevention products, and knowledgeable hands-on local service. Chesterton product range includes mechanical seals, packing and gaskets, industrial lubricants and coatings.
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