Chapter 22, Problem 1RQ

Why do some condensers have to be cleaned with brushes and others with chemicals?

To determine

The reason behind the different methods of cleaning used for condensers.

Explanation of Solution

As per the problem statement, it is given thatsome condensers have to be cleaned with brushes and others with chemicals.

A condenser is a device, which is used to remove heat of the refrigerant. Condenser has tubes inside it through which the refrigerants flow. The tubes have very good coefficient of heat transfer.

Over period, the heat transfer coefficient decreases due to formation of scales and unwanted sediments in the tubes. At this time it has to be cleaned. In some condensers the tube are straight and can be easily detachable. In that type of condensers, cleaning is done using brushes.

In some condensers, the tubes are bend and welded. These tubes are not detachable and cleaning them using brush is not possible. In that case cleaning is done using chemicals.