Finish Thompson BE-55C - Manual (Page 28)

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Possible Cause 2: Debris, weak or improper Pressure Relief Valve.
If foreign matter or debris accumulates inside the seat area of the Pressure Relief Valve the valve may
become too sensitive. Further, after time, continuous exposure to vapors from exceptionally acidic
Waste Coolant vapors can degrade and corrode metal parts in the valve, thereby weakening it.
Remove and inspect the Pressure Relief Valve and look for any signs of debris or corrosion. Attempt to
clean the internals of the valve and reinstall. If there are signs of corrosion or damage, replace the
valve. Always replace the Pressure Relief Valve with one rated with identical specifications. A “water
heater” is not acceptable – their temperature rating is too low for the operation of a BE unit. The valve
must be rated for 15 psi and the temperature of at least 425ºF. If in doubt, use a Pressure Relief Valve
supplied by FTI.
Possible Cause 3: Clog in Distillate Piping.
The Pressure Relief Valve is installed to protect the Process Chamber and Distillate Piping from
overpressure in the event of blockage within the piping.
The more likely areas for debris buildup and blockage are in the Distillate Piping before the Divert Valve
or the Condenser. An accumulation of debris can also occur where the Distillate Piping attaches to the
Process Tank.
 Attempt to back-flush the blockage out through the Process Tank’s drain.
1. Drain the Process Tank of all liquids.
2. Place a drain pan under the Drain Valve and open the Drain Valve.
3. Attach a water source to the Processed Water Hose (e.g., a garden hose with a nozzle).
4. Turn on the water supply and allow the water to drain into your pan.
 If the flushing water seems to be restricted, a teardown and cleaning of the Distillate Piping may be
necessary. Start with the Divert Valve and work your way back to the Process Tank, cleaning out
each component they are removed. Also clean out the opening in the Process Tank. Reassemble
the piping and components using Teflon plumber’s tape to ensure tight, leak-free connections.
DIVERT VALVE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT:
CAUTION: Disconnect electrical power to the BE unit before repairing or
replacing the Divert Solenoid Valve.
Repairing the Divert Valve:
1. Find the Divert Valve in the piping of the unit. It is brass in color and has a large hex nut on one
side. If you are agile enough, you may be able to reach the Divert Valve through the access hole in
the top panel of the BE unit or from underneath the front opening. Otherwise, remove the top panel
from the unit. Be careful—there are four wires and a hose attached. Set the top on its right side on
top of a crate or other support near the right front corner of the unit.
2. Locate and remove the coil portion of the valve. It is a black box attached to the valve and is held
on with a yellow or silver clip. Remove the clip and slide the coil off of the “stem” of the Divert Valve
and set aside. Do not unwire the coil—replacement of the coil is rarely necessary. However, it’s a
good idea to verify that the wire connections are secure. To check the wire connections, remove the
small screw that holds on the coil’s cover, exposing the wire nuts.