50 | INSTALLATION, OPERATION and MAINTENANCE MANUAL
11. STARTUP, OPERATION and SHUTDOWN
11.1. General
Prior to startup, ensure the equipment is correctly assembled and the piping connected
properly. Also, check that the plates have been compressed to the correct dimension
specified on the customer drawing (Figure 42 and refer to Section 9.0).
Correct assembly and tightening are required for safe startup and operation.
11.2. StartUp and Shutdown
Prior to startup, all pipework must be inspected and flushed clean. Strainers are
recommended to prevent debris from entering the heat exchanger.
The heat exchanger must never be started or operated with a closed valve in
the outlet piping. Any such operation can cause leakage and irreversible
damage.
At startup, if steam or another condensable vapor is used as a heating media, it must
be turned on after the liquid has been introduced on the product side.
During initial startup, the heat exchanger may develop minor leaks. If these leaks do not
stop when the equipment has reached operating temperatures, refer to Section 15.0
Troubleshooting.
Air in the heat exchanger will normally be carried out by the liquid flow. However, it is
good practice at startup to vent air from the system at a high point in the piping. This will
ensure the system is filled with liquid.
Startup and shutdown of the heat exchanger must be undertaken slowly and
smoothly. This is to avoid any pressure shocks or water hammering, which can
damage the equipment or cause leakage. Pressure changes must occur
gradually, at a maximum rate of 1.7 bar (25 psi) every 10 seconds. Similarly,
temperature changes must be gradual and limited to less than 10
o
C (18
o
F) per
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