Specialized equipment is employed to remove deposits and scale from the interior of boiler tubes, ensuring optimal heat transfer and operational efficiency. This equipment may range from simple mechanical brushes to sophisticated automated systems utilizing high-pressure water jets or other cleaning media. An example would be a system using rotating brushes driven by an electric motor, propelled through the tube to dislodge accumulated debris.
Clean boiler tubes are essential for safe and efficient operation. Scale buildup reduces heat transfer, leading to increased fuel consumption, decreased steam production, and potential overheating, which can damage the boiler and create safety hazards. Historically, manual cleaning methods were time-consuming and arduous, requiring significant downtime. The development of automated cleaning solutions has significantly reduced downtime and improved worker safety.