The tube sheet was heavily corroded, with significant pitting and wear across its surface. It housed an estimated 2,000 tubes, each 32 mm in diameter. The evaporator processes raw beet juice at 4 bar and operated at a temperature of 120°C.
The tube sheet had suffered extensive corrosion and required a long-term repair solution. One option was the complete replacement of the tube sheet, which was estimated to cost approximately half a million pounds. While several options were considered, the customer selected Belzona UK to provide a solution.
Cork plugs were installed into the 32 mm tubes to protect them during the surface preparation process. The entire tube sheet was then grit blasted, ensuring the required surface profile and cleanliness were achieved.
Belzona 1511, a high temperature paste grade system was mixed and applied across the tube sheet surface, rebuilding the corroded surface flush with the tube ends, and allowed to cure.
Within the specified overcoating window, two coats of Belzona 1593 were then applied. Belzona 1593 is designed to operate under continuous immersion in aqueous and hydro-carbon systems at temperatures up to 160°C.
The Belzona solution restored the integrity of the tube sheet while providing long-term protection against further deterioration. The entire project was completed in just six working days, enabling the customer to return the evaporator to service and commence the next campaign with confidence.
From first assessment to final inspection, our team of experts offer a turnkey solution to your repair and maintenance needs
