Method for the prediction and detection of condenser fouling

US4686853A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• Richard J. Sugam · Flemington, US
• Herbert Arnold · Eberdingen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 17, 1985
• Grant date: Aug 18, 1987
• Expiry date: Jun 17, 2005

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N17/008
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method for the detection of waterside fouling conditions in plant condensers and the differentiation between types of fouling conditions is described. The operating conditions of a pilot scale condenser are continuously matched to the dynamic operating conditions of a plant condenser and performance features (such as OHTR and pressure drop) are monitored and compared, thereby indicating to the plant operator whether fouling is occuring and, if so, whether there is macrofouling or microfouling.