Boiler Re-Tubing

Because your industrial boiler is one of the most critical parts of your operation, ensuring the unit receives the necessary maintenance is vital. Neglected systems become susceptible to boiler corrosion or deterioration, causing unwanted downtime and delays in production. Some of these cases can even result in replacing your entire boiler unit.

Choosing an R-Stamp certified provider like Smith Hughes to handle your maintenance and re-tubing needs keeps your boiler operating smoothly and efficiently.

How Does Boiler Re-Tubing Work?

Re-tubing a boiler involves inspecting the system and replacing the tubes. Installing new components and performing water treatment can often restore your system to like-new condition. The procedure requires extensive system knowledge and expertise, meaning untrained individuals should never try to complete the operation independently. A professional from Smith Hughes will take these steps:

• Inspection: Re-tubing starts with inspecting the boiler to determine the work needed. This first part of the process identifies where the boiler’s tubes require repair before removing damaged components.
• Tube extraction: The technician removes the old boiler tubes and tube ends. During this process, the technician also addresses any repairable cracks in the tube sheets.
• New tube installation: The technician installs new boiler tubes through beading, rolling or welding.
• Boiler testing: Because of high pressure and temperatures, a repaired system requires inspection and approval by an authorized inspector, including a hydrostatic test to verify system integrity.  Once the tube replacement is complete, Smith Hughes will complete and file the R-Stamp paperwork with Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company to complete the process.

Knowing if Boiler Re-Tubing Is Right for You

If you are experiencing leaks, scale buildup or noticeable efficiency decreases in your boiler, the tubes may require replacement. A certified technician from Smith Hughes can evaluate your system and determine whether re-tubing or a complete replacement is practical.

Signs your boiler may need re-tubing maintenance include:

• Corrosion: Besides causing pitting and loss of integrity, corrosion is the primary cause of leaks. Corrosion often results from exposure to oxygen, harmful impurities in the water and excessively high temperatures.
• Scale buildup: Improper water treatment can create mineral deposits on the boiler tubing over time, impeding heat transfer and preventing the water from appropriately cooling the tubing.
• Failing a hydrostatic test: A hydrostatic test is a stress procedure to determine all aspects of system integrity that are not apparent during a visual inspection.

Benefits of Choosing Smith Hughes for Boiler Re-Tubing Services

Effective boiler repair and re-tubing are critical for achieving optimal performance and extending the life span of your unit. Replacing pitted, cracked or scaled tubes restores efficiency and regains the unit’s intended functionality. Re-tubing a boiler also increases safety for workers and building occupants because it minimizes the risk of a system blowout.

Choosing boiler re-tubing services from Smith Hughes can save you significant money over replacing the entire unit. Renting a temporary boiler from us during the repair process allows you to maintain system efficiencies by preventing extended downtime.

Discover More About Boiler Re-Tubing With Smith Hughes

Learn more about boiler re-tubing and whether your unit needs it with the experienced professionals at Smith Hughes. Our technicians have years of combined experience to ensure the highest safety measures. Contact us online to get started