What is the correct procedure for cleaning a turbine oil cooler?

The correct procedure for cleaning a turbine oil cooler is to place the entire tube bundle in a cleaning tank. This method allows for a thorough cleaning of the entire unit in a controlled environment, using appropriate cleaning solutions that can effectively remove deposits and contaminants from all surfaces of the cooler.

Cleaning the tube bundle as a whole provides the advantage of ensuring that all sections are uniformly treated without risking damage to individual components that may occur during more aggressive cleaning methods. Additionally, this approach is often more time-efficient and ensures that the bundle is cleaned without the risk of incomplete cleaning that can occur when only part of the system is addressed.

In contrast, flushing with water only might not be sufficient to remove all contaminants, as water alone may not dissolve or dislodge heavier deposits. Using a high-pressure jet wash could potentially cause physical damage to the tubes or fittings, especially if the wrong angle or pressure level is used. Dismantling and cleaning each tube individually can be labor-intensive and increase the risk of misplacing components or improper reassembly. Therefore, placing the entire tube bundle in a cleaning tank is the most effective and safest approach.