Tube plugs are used in various applications, from high-pressure to mechanical, one-piece designs. There are many different tube plugs available, so it’s important to know what kind of product you need.
One-piece
One-piece tube plugs are a standard solution to repair leaky tubes. These devices can be used in various applications, including heat exchangers, chemical equipment, surgical implants, and feedwater heaters. However, selecting the correct type is essential. Choosing the wrong material can lead to downtime or even damage to other parts of the vessel.
When looking for a tube plug, it is crucial to consider the material and application. Tube plugs are available in various metals, including brass, stainless steel, and aluminum. In addition, while most one-piece pins are welded to the tube sheet, there are also two-piece options. Both of these types offer additional sealing areas and reduced stress on the tube.
The first type of one-piece plug is the tapered pin style. The sharp pin is designed to fit into the tube. This design reduces stress on the tube and increases the risk of the adjacent tube joint leaking.
A second type of one-piece tube plug is the tapered ring. This design is ideal for sealing leaky tubes but can cause stress to the ligament that attaches the pin to the line.
Another type of one-piece tube plug is the Torq N’ Seal. This design offers an extra-strength sealing area, which is ideal for high-pressure or low-pressure applications.
Mechanical
Mechanical tube plugs can be used in a variety of applications. However, they come in many materials and sizes, so selecting the correct pin for your application is essential. For example, a two-piece plug is better for large sealing areas, while a one-piece plug is the best option for minor, high-pressure pipes.
Torq N’ Seal plugs are an economical and fast way to secure leaks in various tube types. They can be installed in seconds with a 3/8 square drive torque wrench. They are designed to fit into tight spaces, providing positive sealing in pressures as high as 7,000 PSI. Unlike other plugs, these are not intended to damage a tube sheet and require no special tooling.
There are several factors to consider when selecting a mechanical tube plug, including the ID of the tube, the material it is made of, and the application. When selecting a pin, be sure to take into consideration the thickness of the material. This will help to ensure that the insertion process is accurate and will not create holes or other defects.
Tube plugs can be used in various applications, such as repairing severely corroded areas. In addition, they are helpful for low-pressure and medium-pressure situations.
High-pressure applications
Tube plugs seal leaky tubes in boilers, heat exchangers, and other high-pressure applications. In addition, they can be designed for positive pressure differentials from the plug’s front and rear.
Various material options are available for tube plugs. These include steel, aluminum, and even rubber. There are also round, rectangular, and irregular plugs. However, it would help if you were sure to choose the best material for your particular application.
A high-pressure tube plug is the most effective way to seal leaky tubes in heat exchangers. It provides a long-term solution and eliminates the need for hot work. In addition, it eliminates the potential for circumferential cracking and thermal expansion.
One of the most common problems with plugs is the occurrence of holes. These holes can form due to the build-up of deposits and corrosion. In addition, the plug must be matched to the tube metal. If it is not, the heat produced by welding will cause adjacent tube joints to leak.
Another factor to consider when selecting a tube plug is the size. It is best to use a two-piece pin if you have a larger sealing area. This will reduce the stress on the tube. For smaller sealing areas, you can choose a one-piece plug.
