1. When is tube plugging an acceptable repair method?
For non-critical tubes with sufficient system redundancy. Temporary solution until planned outage. Limited to small percentage of total tubes. Must consider impact on flow distribution. Requires subsequent permanent repair planning.
2. What are the options for in-situ tube welding repairs?
Full encirclement sleeves for structural integrity. Fillet welded patches for non-critical applications. Laser cladding for localized wastage. Friction stir welding for special cases. All require proper heat treatment.
3. How does tube sleeving work as a repair method?
Inserted parent metal sleeve bridges damaged area. Can be welded or mechanical expansion secured. Maintains original dimensions and flow characteristics. Allows continued operation at full pressure. Permanent repair when properly executed.
4. What are the advantages of mechanical tube repair clamps?
Quick installation without hot work permits. No need for post-weld heat treatment. Can be installed during operation. Reusable designs available. Limited to lower pressure applications.
5. When should complete tube replacement be considered?
When multiple repairs exist in a single tube. Extensive general thinning beyond limits. Advanced creep damage indications. Material upgrades are required. Cost-benefit favors replacement over repair.
