Damage repair methods for boiler tubes

A boiler is a device that supplies steam. According to the heat source, it can be divided into two types. One is a boiler that directly uses fuel combustion to generate steam, which is called a fuel-assisted boiler. The other is a boiler that uses the exhaust gas energy of combustion during the operation of a diesel engine to produce steam, which is called an exhaust gas boiler. At present, exhaust boilers are installed on the exhaust pipes of high-power marine diesel engines, which mainly solve the steam needs of ships during navigation, while fuel-assisted boilers are only used when ships are docked or moored.

Boilers often have a harsh working environment due to high temperature and water vapor, which makes it easy for boilers to be damaged and corroded, and water quality can easily cause dirt in waterways. Therefore, ship boiler tube replacement also occurs frequently.

Damage repair methods for boiler tubes are mainly divided into the following categories:

1. Welding repair
For small and local pipeline damage, welding can be used to repair it. First, the damaged pipeline surface needs to be cleaned, and then an appropriate welding method is used to repair it.

2. Replacement of pipelines
For severely damaged pipelines, or pipelines that are damaged in multiple places, the damaged pipeline may need to be replaced as a whole. Before replacing the pipeline, the original pipeline needs to be removed and then a new pipeline installed.

3. Patch repair
For small-scale pipeline damage, pipeline patches can be used for repair. Patches can be made of heat-resistant and pressure-resistant materials, such as metal patches, or they can be repaired using special glue.

4. Welding compensation
For pipeline damage of different shapes, welding compensation may be needed for repair. Welding compensation can be achieved by adjusting the shape of the pipeline to reconnect it to the surrounding pipelines.

5. Welding reinforcement
For pipeline damage caused by aging, fatigue, corrosion, etc., welding reinforcement can be used for repair. By reinforcing the pipeline at the stress-bearing part, its strength and stability are increased.

Boiler tube maintenance:

The maintenance methods of boiler tubes include the following aspects:

1. Cleaning: Clean the boiler pipeline regularly, remove impurities such as dust and scale, and keep the pipeline unobstructed.
2. Inspection: Check the boiler pipeline regularly for leaks, cracks, etc., and repair or replace damaged parts in time.
3. Heating: When the boiler pipeline is not used for a long time, it needs to be heated and insulated to avoid damage caused by ice or water accumulation.
4. Anti-corrosion: Take appropriate anti-corrosion measures, such as applying anti-corrosion paint, anti-corrosion coating, etc., to prevent corrosion of boiler pipes.
5. Sewage discharge: Regularly discharge sewage to remove impurities and sewage in the pipes to avoid blockage and pollution.
6. Inspection: Regularly perform pressure tests and leak detection to ensure the safe operation of boiler pipes.
7. Keep maintenance records of equipment and pipes, handle and follow up problems in a timely manner, and ensure the normal operation of pipes.

In short, the method of repairing boiler pipes depends on the degree of damage and the specific situation. It is necessary to choose the appropriate repair method according to the actual situation. In order to ensure safety and effectiveness, it is recommended to seek professional engineers for repair and repair.

Read more: Boiler tube size chart or How are seamless boiler tubes made?