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Heat Exchanger Technology
HEAVY METAL & TUBES
Carbon Steel ▪ Alloy Steel ▪ Stainless Steel
Perfect blend of
quality and integrity
Figure 2. Step rolling process.
• Sequential expansion: Expand all tubes at the deepest setting first, working from the back face to the front face. Then, use the next shorter reach expander in the series and expand all tubes again. Repeat this process, progressively shortening the expander reach. Avoid using the long-reach tool for all expansions, as this increases the load on the tool and the risk of damage.
• Tool maintenance: Maintain the tools in optimal condition. Keep them cool and clean, lubricate frequently, and remove any debris. Regularly swap out expanders to prevent overheating and premature wear.
Best practices for expanding thicker tube sheets When expanding tubes into thicker tube sheets, it is essential to follow best practices to ensure uniform expansion, prevent damage to tooling, and maintain the structural integrity of the heat exchanger. Proper preparation, careful execution, and regular inspection can significantly improve the expansion process and extend the lifespan of both tubes and tube sheets. The following best practices can help operators achieve optimal results:
• Proper lubrication: Use a high-quality lubricant specifically designed for tube expansion to reduce friction and minimize tool wear.
• Controlled expansion: Avoid over-expanding the tubes. Follow the manufacturer’ s recommendations for torque and expansion rates.
• Inspection: Thoroughly inspect each expanded tube for any defects, such as cracks, ridges, or uneven expansion.
• Training: Ensure that operators are adequately trained on the proper techniques for expanding tubes in thicker tube sheets.
Conclusion Expanding tubes into thicker tube sheets requires careful planning, the right tools, and a thorough understanding of the challenges involved. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, operators can achieve consistent, highquality expansions, ensuring the long-term reliability and performance of heat exchangers in demanding applications. Remember to always consult relevant industry standards( TEMA, API, ASME) for specific requirements and best practices.
What differentiates HMT from others
Carbon Steel, Alloy Steel & Stainless Steel from same mfr. Capability to mfr. st. length tubes upto 34 Mtrs. U-Tubes with max. hydro test pressure @ 700 Kg / CM 2 Special grades with quick delivery | SA334 Gr. 3, SA213 T5 / T9 / T91
Duplex & Super Duplex, TP310 / TP321H / TP347H / TP405 / TP410
Website: www. hmtl. in Email: info @ hmtl. in, mkt @ hmtl. in, exports @ hmtl. in Mobile: + 91-90165 49266, Tel.: + 91 90812 55991 / 92 / 93 www. heat-exchanger-world. com