The specific issue relates to a gas header, which is approx 12 inch in diameter of plastic lined pipe and approximately 30 to 50 meters in length (horizontal) - normally low gas rates 10-20 ACFM. Over a period of time we know a gel layer accumulates. This eventually causes sufficient reduction in pipe area to cause us undesirable business consequence.
At present, we do not have a satisfactory method to measure the amount of pipe flow area reduction due to gel restriction and/or a method to remove the gels which does not introduce significant water /or foreign chemicals into this header. Ideally, we are looking for a solution, which can be introduced into the header without process shutdown or water introduction into the process. The nature and location of this header makes it undesirable to modify its position within the plant (and its fall angle).
The gels in this header are typically acidic and very viscous. Water flow alone does not move the material. The header does carry combustible materials and as such is always kept inert.
At present, we do not have a satisfactory method to measure the amount of pipe flow area reduction due to gel restriction and/or a method to remove the gels which does not introduce significant water /or foreign chemicals into this header. Ideally, we are looking for a solution, which can be introduced into the header without process shutdown or water introduction into the process. The nature and location of this header makes it undesirable to modify its position within the plant (and its fall angle).
The gels in this header are typically acidic and very viscous. Water flow alone does not move the material. The header does carry combustible materials and as such is always kept inert.
