RetubeCo, Inc

Condenser Vibration Mitigation

Tube vibration in the condenser can cause serious tube damage when increased steam flows are introduced or when retubing with thinner wall tubes or those with low Modulus of Elasticity. Tube vibration, if left unresolved, may result in catastrophic tube failures and the subsequent unplanned shutdown of the unit.  High velocity steam cross-flow over condenser tube bundles excite the tubes significantly, causing all types of flow-induced vibration mechanisms.  Examples of these are turbulent buffeting, vortex shedding and fluid elastic instability in the form of a whirling motion that can result in mid-span collision and catastrophic circumferential fracture.