The practical application of SF{sub 6} and helium for condenser tube and air inleakage detection
- Conco Services Corp., Gaithersburg, MD (United States)
- Conco Consulting Corp., Verona, PA (United States)
Many different methods are available for the detection of condenser tube and condenser air inleakage, some based on the chemical analysis of the condensate and others monitoring the quantity of air entrained in the ejected vapor. However, once detected, it is then necessary to locate the actual source of the problem so that it can be rectified with confidence and the health of the unit restored. The nature and severity of the leak largely determine the best method to be employed in locating its source. Tracer gases such as Helium and SF{sub 6} have become widely accepted over the past 10 years as the standard operating procedure. In addition, on-line injection of SF{sub 6} into circulating water lines to isolate leaks in tube bundles is state-of-the-art. The use of the tracer gas technique has eliminated much of the guess work normally experienced when using less sophisticated methods, has resulted in less down time to perform leak detection, and has especially helped to reduce the increase in heat rate which is associated with air inleakage. This paper presents the practical application and use of tracer gases to perform leak detection, compares this method with earlier and less sophisticated techniques, and outlines the key elements, both theoretical and practical, which an engineer should consider when determining the most appropriate procedure and tracer gas to use in a given application. 6 refs., 4 figs.
- Research Organization:
- Electric Power Research Inst., Palo Alto, CA (United States); Stone and Webster Engineering Corp., Boston, MA (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 414843
- Report Number(s):
- EPRI-TR--106781; CONF-960857--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Condenser inleakage monitoring system development. Final report
Condenser leak-detection guidelines using sulfur hexafluoride as a tracer gas: Final report