Eliminating Pump Cavitation in a High-Temperature PET System
System Type
High-temperature thermal fluid system (330,000 litres at 330°C)
The Challenge
Following a primary pump failure, the site experienced elevated pump vibration. With only a three-year maintenance window, engineers were concerned that further failure could lead to a full system outage.
Initial testing suggested the thermal fluid was in good condition, but vibration persisted.
The Solution
TFS conducted detailed fluid analysis. Although standard tests showed acceptable condition, small quantities of degradation products were identified. These were causing early onset pump cavitation. The issue was confirmed as chemical, not mechanical or design-related.
TFS designed and installed a side-stream flash evaporation unit to remove the degradation components, while meeting Group LOPA and ATEX standards.
Over six weeks of continuous operation:
- Total system volume: 330,000 litres @ 330°C
- Degradation component removed: 250 litres @ 60°C
The Result
- Degradation components successfully removed
- Pump vibration resolved
- Production maintained throughout
- Group safety and protection standards met
- Site confidence restored
