Western Technical Services | Accusense Systems International Limited
Non-Destructive Testing for the Food, Dairy, Brewing, & Pharmaceutical Industries

Accusense Systems - Heat Exchange Systems

How the Tests Work

The process we use involves pressurising the primary side of any heat exchanger with helium gas to a pressure no greater than 30 psi.

The gas is then purged through this section to ensure complete coverage of the plates, or tubes. Helium permeates through water so any remaining water is not considered a problem. Helium is a highly mobile gas that will easily pass through small pin holes and cracks in heat exchanger plates. It is an inert gas therefore non-flammable. It is also non-toxic, non-corrosive and leaves no residue.

The secondary side of the exchanger has a low volume air circulation system fitted with a detector probe as an integral part. The probe detects any crossover of Helium to the primary side down to as little as 2 ppm. Any leakage from gaskets will pass to the atmosphere causing no indication on our instrument.

Exact defective plate location is achieved by carrying out a circulatory Dye test of the rejected section. The rejected section is split to allow any remaining water to drain. The pack is then re-tightened to its original dimensions. Fluorescent Dye specifically developed for Accusense Systems is then circulated around the defective section. The section is then split to allow the dye to drain and the plates are viewed under UV light for holes or cracks.

Problem Scenarios

Problem 1
Q: Is it possible to test plate, tubular and scrape surface heat exchangers with this system.

A: Yes it is just as easy to test all types of heat exchangers.

Problem 2
Q: How long does the test take ?

A: Typically under one hour for a 3/4 section pasteurizer.

Problem 3
Q: If there is water remaining in the heat exchanger does this inhibit the results.

A: No water is not inhibitive.

Problem 4
Q: How sensitive is the test.

A: Independent trials alongside competitors methods including the saline system confirmed the Accusense test to be the superior method both on sensitivity and speed of test.

Our Clients

Accusense Sustems have worked with some of the leading companies in both the UK, Europe and the United States.

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