Van Air Systems Mist Eliminator - Manual (Page 6)

PAGE 6 © 1998 VAN AIR SYSTEMS INC. 2950 MECHANIC STREET, LAKE CITY, PA 16423 PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.
SECTION 6 MAINTENANCE
6.1 SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
The Mist Eliminator requires little maintenance.
As outlined in the operation procedures, the pressure differential
across the unit should be checked on a regular basis. When the
pressure differential reaches 3 PSID, the element should be
changed.
If the pressure differential suddenly drops below the normal range of
0.5 to 1.0 PSID, the element should be inspected for failure or
possible disconnection from the vessel inlet.
The unit must be drained regularly to make sure that the accumu-
lated liquid is being adequately removed from the sump area.
6.2 CHANGING THE ELEMENT
When the pressure differential across the unit reaches 3 PSID or if
damage has occurred to the element, such as a rupture in the fibers,
the element must be changed.
WARNING
COMPLETELY DEPRESSURIZE THE VESSEL BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO REMOVE ANY PART. FAILURE TO HEED THIS
WARNING WILL RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY AND
DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT.
6.2-1 REMOVAL
WARNING
TO PREVENT POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY, USE PROPER
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT WHEN HANDLING
THE USED ELEMENT.
FOLLOW ALL APPLICABLE PROCEDURES CONCERNING
THE HANDLING OR DISPOSAL OF CHEMICALS THAT HAS
BEEN COLLECTED IN THE ELEMENT AND VESSEL
To remove the element, the top flange/head must be disconnected
from the vessel. The vessel must be completely depressurized
before any part is removed. Follow shutdown procedures in
Section 5.3.
The element is attached to the inside of the top flange/head. A
distance of the top flange/head and element length is required
above the vessel for element removal. Reference Section 3.2 for
this dimension. If this distance is not available, the vessel can be
removed from the piping and placed on its side to accommodate
element removal.
Disconnect the vessel from the piping as necessary. Unbolt and
remove the top flange/head and element from the vessel.
Disconnect the element from the top flange/head. Models VME-
125 through VME-3000 have threaded connections. Models VME-
5000 through VME-10000 have flanged connections for the
element.
6.2-2 HANDLING THE USED ELEMENT
If the element bottom plate or packing ring is held in place with a
machine bolt and a hex nut, the element is repackable. The
element fibers can be removed and the element casing returned
for fiber repacking.
If repacking is desired, contact the factory for procedures and
rates.
Disposal of the element, element fibers or chemicals contained in
the element or vessel must be done in accordance with all
applicable regulations and procedures.
6.2-3 INSTALLING THE NEW ELEMENT
Uncrate the new element. Use care to prevent damage to the
element.
Inspect the element connection on the flange/head. Check the
threads or flange sealing surface. These surfaces should be
cleaned to ensure proper sealing.
Attach the element to the top flange/head. Make sure that the
element is securely fastened. Use PTFE (teflon) pipe tape on the
threaded end of the element. If the element has a flanged
connection, make sure that the gasket is installed between the
flange and element. A new gasket should be used every time the
element is replaced.
Once the element is properly attached to the top flange/head, the
assembly can be mounted to the vessel. Carefully place the
element into the vessel. Reattach the top flange/head to the
vessel.
Reconnect the vessel to the process piping. Make sure all
connections are properly installed. Once the unit has been
properly setup follow the start-up procedures in Section 5.2.