Drying Contaminated Syltherm 800 Within Seven Days to Save a High-Value Batch
System Type
Syltherm 800 thermal fluid system (20,000 litres)
The Challenge
Following a cooling water heat exchanger failure, a high-value product batch (still in patent) was left incomplete mid-process.
The thermal fluid contained free water and unknown contamination levels.
Initial laboratory testing confirmed 2,560 ppm water content.
Target requirements:
- Reduce water content to <50 ppm
- Maintain processing temperature of -22°C
- Complete within 7 days
The Solution
TFS were consulted on Day 1 (Friday). Samples were analysed immediately.
By Day 3, a thermal fluid heater, booster pumps and flash evaporator were delivered to site in Ireland.
Installation and commissioning were completed on Day 4 (Monday).
Drying was completed within 42 hours.
- Water removed: 68 litres
- Final water content: 36 ppm
Production recommenced at 8am on Day 7 (Thursday).
The Result
- Batch saved
- Water reduced from 2,560 ppm to 36 ppm
- Total turnaround achieved within 7 days
- Production resumed on schedule
