Evaporator tube cleaning
Tube cleaning systems to remove various deposits from evaporator tubes (falling film evaporators), commonly found in the dairy industry.
Tubular evaporators
Tubular evaporators are essential in the dairy industry for concentrating milk and whey by removing water through controlled heating. During regular operation, these systems will experience fouling from milk solids, proteins, and minerals that deposit on heat transfer surfaces, especially inside the tubes. This buildup will reduce thermal efficiency, increase energy consumption, and risk compromising product quality. Routine cleaning and maintenance are vital to ensure hygienic conditions, consistent product output, and long-term operational efficiency.
Fouling issues of tubular evaporators
Tubular evaporators are commonly used in the dairy industry for various production processes. During operation, dairy products flow through the tubes, and residues can adhere to the inner tube walls. Over time, these deposits accumulate and form a layer that significantly reduces the system’s efficiency. Additionally, this fouling layer can pose a hygienic risk, as it may mix with fresh product or contaminate other products passing through the system. In summary:
- Reduced production: Product adhering to the tube walls can, over time, form layers or even blockages within the tubes.
- Loss of efficiency: The insulating effect of fouling disrupts the process, leading to inconsistent or suboptimal production results.
- Hygienic risk: Contact between old and new (or different) products increases the potential for cross-contamination, posing a serious quality and safety concern.
Cases of fouling inside evaporator tubes
Deposit buildup within evaporator tubes can vary significantly, depending on the process, product(s), and other operational variables. Over the years, Goodway Benelux has supplied equipment to a wide range of dairy companies and found that each process generates its own unique type of deposit.
In general, most deposits tend to be quite hard. When dairy products are heated and layer upon layer accumulates, the resulting buildup can become so solid that it resembles cement. Once deposits reach this level of hardness, removal becomes extremely challenging. Only Goodway®’s most robust scraping tools are capable of breaking through such blockages – though even then, the process can be time-consuming or not successful at all.
Based on the experience of Goodway Benelux, three main types of deposits have been identified:
- Light deposits (single layer):
Most deposits begin as soft residues. When tubes are cleaned preventively, these can be removed easily, as they are still in the early stages of formation. The standard nylon abrasive brushes are typically sufficient to remove these deposits quickly and efficiently. - Medium deposits (multiple layers):
When deposits are allowed to accumulate, they become progressively more difficult to remove. The initial soft layer hardens over time, creating a surface on which new material adheres, forming additional layers. Depending on the buildup, removal may still be possible using a nylon brush, though in some cases, a scraping tool may be required. - Hard deposits (multiple layers, high heat exposure):
In certain processes, prolonged exposure to heat combined with a lack of preventive cleaning results in extremely hardened, multilayer deposits. These can eventually block the tubes entirely, disrupting production. In such cases, specialized scraping tools are essential to reopen the tubes. Once the blockage is cleared, a nylon brush is used to eliminate any remaining residues. Depending on the severity of the fouling, clearing a tube of approximately 8 meters in length can take anywhere from one to over five minutes.
Improve production process
Maintaining clean evaporator tubes is essential for ensuring an efficient and uninterrupted production process. Using Goodway® equipment for preventive cleaning helps keep the tubes clean and free from obstructions. When preventive maintenance is not feasible, the same equipment can also be used for reactive cleaning. In both scenarios, the core system remains the same – only the tools and brushes vary, depending on the hardness and type of deposits.
- One system, one investment: A single system is sufficient to remove all types of deposits across various tube diameters. Simply choose the appropriate tools and brushes based on the fouling.
- Operator-friendly: The equipment is designed for easy use by plant operators and maintenance engineers, reducing reliance on external contractors. Goodway Benelux also offers on-site support and staff training to make sure the equipment is used correctly from the start.
- Improved production and hygiene: Clean tubes ensure smooth, uninterrupted operation and support the maintenance of hygiene standards by eliminating the risk of cross-contamination caused by residual deposits.
Interested in what Goodway Benelux offers for:
Tubular evaporators
From pre-sales inquiries to technical support, Goodway Benelux is available to assist customers at every stage. The company also provides on-site support, training, and product demonstrations. Their dedicated sales representatives and project engineers are ready to answer questions and provide guidance throughout the entire process.