Case Studies: Plant Performance Improvements Through the Use of Innovative Condenser Cleaning Technology and Leak Detection Inspection

One of the largest returns on investment a plant can make is the improved condenser performance as a result of the removal of fouling from tubes within the condenser. The financial impact of a poorly performing condenser can cost the average power station millions of dollars per year in lost revenue. Even a small increase in unit back pressure as a result of tube fouling and air in-leakage can have dramatic results. Performance engineers are continuously reevaluating their choice of cleaning technologies while implementing optimal cleaning schedules as well as air and water in-leakage surveys. With so many choices available for improvement, plant engineers must choose systems that are cost effective, safe and efficient. In addition, the technologies incorporated should have the capability to satisfy a variety of conditions. Those conditions can include: fouling types ranging from bio-films to the most tenacious calcium scale and the potential for air in-leakage from the turbine to the hotwell. As a result, operators must be well informed regarding best available technology. If the plant is nuclear powered, the systems should also provide the least risk to the personnel. This paper will review tube fouling characteristics, advances in cleaning technology and leak detection procedures related to improving overall plant performance.