Column Condenser AXM Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers Tube Replacement Turnaround Service

Tube Replacement for Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers in Propylene Oxide Production

Shell and tube heat exchangers are essential to the safe and efficient production of propylene oxide, a chemical widely used in the manufacture of polyurethane plastics, detergents, and other industrial products.

Within these systems, column condensers manage vapor-liquid separation and heat exchange during the distillation and purification phases of production. Over time, however, the internal tubes of these exchangers degrade due to high temperatures, pressure cycling, and corrosive chemical exposure. This wear can compromise thermal performance and overall reliability.

When tube failure occurs, facilities face unplanned shutdowns, reduced throughput, and costly repairs. To avoid these risks, proactive tube replacement during planned turnarounds is vital for maintaining operational integrity and meeting production standards.

Metalforms recently completed a tube replacement project for two AXM Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers at a Texas-based propylene oxide facility. Each exchanger contained more than 2,500 tubes, which were stripped and retubed within a six-week turnaround window.

Metalforms provides full support for all TEMA-type shell & tube exchangers, offering services such as retubing, replacement bundle fabrication, and custom-built shells and channels. Each solution is carefully engineered to meet the demanding thermal and mechanical requirements of chemical processing facilities.

Proper maintenance of column condensers and shell & tube heat exchangers is essential for ensuring efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. With proven expertise in chemical processing environments, Metalforms provides the services and equipment needed to minimize downtime, extend service life, and keep mission-critical operations running at peak performance.

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