Recommended Practices for the Development of an Effective Steam Surface Condenser Maintenance Regime; Including Suggested Maintenance Solutions and Design Modifications That Can Improve Condenser Performance and Reliability

A detailed & proper understanding of the main components that comprise a Steam Surface Condenser is absolutely essential when designing an effective maintenance regime. This Paper provides a breakdown for each of the main components, including typical ancillary items, which should be incorporated into visual inspections, and routine testing, when developing an effective maintenance regime for Steam Surface Condensers. Topics cover recommended inspection criteria for the main and ancillary components as well as proposed testing methods. Examples of known component failure modes, suggested repairs, replacements, modifications & upgrades are also included for reference. Implementation of an effective maintenance regime can help to ensure design performance is maintained. Often, it can even lead to improvements in unit availability and overall long term reliability; which in turn can result in tangible reductions in operating costs.