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Cover Story
Thermo-Clean Group : Deep cleani
For over 35 years , Thermo-Clean Group has been at the forefront of thermal cleaning innovation . Under the leadership of Robert
Mol , the company has expanded from a small branch to cover multiple countries , offering cutting-edge , sustainable , and highly efficient cleaning technologies . In this interview , we learnt how with a commitment to continuous improvement and environmental responsibility , Thermo- Clean is setting new industry standards while preparing for future growth .
Thermo-Clean is equipped to cater to businesses across Europe with its comprehensive “ 10-step total care heat exchanger cleaning service “ aka Total Cleaning .
By Iryna Mukha , Heat Exchanger World
Over 35 years of history Thermo-Clean originated in 1989 as a branch of Jos Mol Coatings , a Belgium and Luxembourg-based powder coatings distributor . Since 2005 , the company has been headed by Robert Mol . Through his relentless efforts spanning over three decades , Mol has successfully turned Thermo-Clean into one of the market leaders in the thermal cleaning industry , boasting 10 branches throughout Europe and sturdy plans for further expansion . “ I joined the company in May 1989 as the second employee . It was just us two initially ,” shares Robert . “ We were propelled by inquiries from our Jos Mol Coatings customers about equipment cleaning and in response , we started Thermo-Clean by primarily serving the paint industry . The effectiveness of our strategies in dealing with other substances such as oil , plastic , and glue became evident later on .” Under Robert ’ s leadership , the company has transformed into an expert in the fields of thermal heat exchanger cleaning , polymer removal , and filter cleaning . “ Our proprietary thermal cleaning technique allows us to restore heat exchangers and parts to their original performance level . This translates into improved heat transfer , diminished energy costs , and a reduced environmental impact as a more efficient heat exchanger results in less fuel consumption and consequently , fewer greenhouse gas emissions .”
In situations where customers are unsure about the type of fouling affecting their heat exchanger , Thermo-Clean performs a preliminary test using a sample to identify if the fouling is organic , inorganic , or a blend of both . “ This test helps us understand the aftermath inside the pyrolysis oven such as by what percentage we can reduce this fouling ,” says Robert . “ In case of any uncertainties , we conduct a further thermogravimetric analysis ( TGA ) test to delve into what the fouling comprises .” The team typically starts the process by understanding the weight , volume , and design of the exchanger to provide a quotation and a detailed cleaning schedule . “ Once an agreement is reached , we arrange to collect the exchanger from the customer . The first and foremost task upon arrival is to arrange the appropriate support for the exchanger to prevent buckling or distortion during the cleaning process ,” adds Robert . “ We then set up thermal components throughout the heat exchanger to monitor the temperature at various parts to ensure uniform heating .” According to Robert , compared to high-pressure methods , Thermo-Clean can pre-calculate the cleaning duration more precisely . “ With our technology , we can let the client know beforehand whether 24 hours , 40 hours , or 60 hours are needed for cleaning . This optimizes planning for the client .
8 Heat Exchanger World March 2025 www . heat-exchanger-world . com