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Best Practices for Cleaning Air-Cooled Condensers (ACC) and Preventing Damage to Fin Tubes

In previous articles, we explored the origins and effects of ACC fouling and the optimal times for cleaning. Now, let’s delve into some recommendations for best practices in cleaning ACCs and preventing damage to fin tubes.

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Essential Precautions for Effective Cleaning

  1. Clean at Counter Flow: Always clean from the outside to the inside, moving the fouling back to where it originates. Most fouling accumulates on the inside bundle surface. By cleaning from the outside, the fouling is directly washed away in the direction it came from, ensuring efficient removal.

  2. Spray Perpendicular to the Fins: It is crucial to spray in front of the fins without any angle. This prevents the fins from being folded or damaged, ensuring the integrity of the ACC structure.

  3. Stop the Fans Before Cleaning: Always stop the fans before initiating the cleaning process. This halts the air flow, allowing for a more controlled and effective cleaning operation.

Practices to Avoid

  1. Manual Cleaning with High-Pressure Water:

    • Cleaning by hand using a high-pressure water jet, such as a “Karcher,” is not recommended. The high-pressure water beams, typically around 90 bar, can damage the fins. Maintaining a fixed spray angle is essential to prevent this damage, which is nearly impossible to achieve manually.

  2. Sand Blasting:

    • Sand blasting is not advised as it can remove the protective aluminum coating on the fins, leading to irreversible damage. The abrasive nature of sand blasting can strip away the coating, exposing the fins to corrosion and reducing their lifespan.

  3. Sodium Bicarbonate Blasting:

    • Using sodium bicarbonate blasting for cleaning is also not recommended due to the risk of chemical reactions. Aluminum fins can react with sodium bicarbonate, causing electrolysis. This chemical reaction can severely damage your ACC, compromising its performance and durability.

Recommended Practices

  • Use Automated Cleaning Systems:

    • Opt for automated cleaning systems like the AX Cleaner, which ensure a controlled and consistent cleaning process. These systems maintain the correct spray angle and pressure, minimizing the risk of damage to the fin tubes.

  • High-Quality Water:

    • Ensure that the cleaning water meets specific quality standards to prevent further fouling or corrosion. For high-temperature operations, use demineralized or softened water with a pH of approximately 7-8.

  • Regular Maintenance:

    • Establish a regular cleaning schedule based on the fouling rate and operational conditions. This ensures that the ACC operates at peak efficiency and reduces the need for aggressive cleaning methods.