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ROCHEM Fyrewash Ltd
5-6 Sun Valley Business Park
Winnall Close, Winchester
Hampshire
SO23 0LB
ROCHEM Fyrewash Inc
23707 West Hardy Road
Spring
Texas
77373
05.12.25
The function of a is to increase the pressure of a gas or vapour. Anything that stops the equipment from doing this job efficiently costs you money and jeopardises production. However, many engineers are unaware of the costly impact that fouling is having on their equipment at this very moment.
Through normal use, process compressors accumulate , and removing them is key to regaining efficiency and maximising profit. Here’s how…
The in a process compressor originate within the process itself, e.g.:
Once fouling begins, more and more deposits build up and the performance of the equipment plummets.
Without opening up the equipment itself, it can be hard to comprehend how serious the foulant build-up is. However, there are some telltale signs that you have a problem, including:
A boroscope inspection can also be used to confirm your suspicions if desired.
Process compressor fouling impacts performance and can ultimately cause costly damage to your equipment.
Fouling increases friction and internal recirculation while also reducing capacity. Compromised in these ways, the compressor does not work as intended and more fuel or energy will be needed to obtain the same results, increasing costs by potentially $100s of thousands per year.
Another issue is vibration which, as it increases with greater fouling, can cause a loss up to 10% efficiency per year.
In a nutshell: fouling = reduced efficiency, increased costs and greater potential for damage.
In an ideal world, we would from happening in the first place. Unfortunately, due to the nature of contaminant introduction, it is simply impossible to stop them from getting in! However, there are steps we can take to minimise the build-up of contaminants and remove any last residue when necessary.
Specialised surface coatings can be used to limit fouling, but they are not enough alone to eliminate the problem.
In order to maintain efficiency, maximise productivity, and minimise fuel costs, . A combination of regular on-line cleaning using , and occasional off-line cleaning is the best combination to maintain your equipment and ensure the highest level of performance and lifespan. Washing should be a core part of your .
At Rochem, we specialise in process compressor washing products and equipment. Our team are here to help with a performance analysis, , custom equipment design, , , , installation and all the support you need to regain lost efficiency at your site.
If you’re interested in how we can help, please to discuss your specific requirements.
Post written by Martin Howarth
An extensive knowledge of mechanical and electrical engineering together with hands on experience with gas turbines provides a bedrock for his work at Rochem.
