Ducts that carry abrasive dust or powder can wear unevenly. At a bend, particles strike the outer wall as the flow changes direction, concentrating wear in that area.
Signs Of Wear Around A Duct Bend
Repeated leaks, worn patches, and visible damage around the same bend can indicate a recurring problem. Changes in airflow may have other causes as well, including joints, blockages, or fan performance.
Record where the damage occurs and use suitable inspection and thickness measurements to assess the condition. Surface appearance alone does not show the remaining wall thickness.
Patching A Leak Or Replacing The Worn Section
A patch may address a local opening, but it does not necessarily resolve the cause of wear. The surrounding wall, joints, and condition of earlier repairs also need to be assessed.
A replacement bend or liner should match the existing diameter, bend radius, flanges, and connecting sections. The repair approach depends on how much of the section is worn and whether the remaining structure is suitable.
Choosing A Liner Or Replacement Material
Wear-resistant steel is one option for abrasive material handling. Other lining materials may suit different combinations of particle size, speed, temperature, and impact.
Select the material for the process conditions and the way the part will be installed and maintained. Corrosion and elevated temperature need to be considered alongside abrasion.
Flow Conditions Also Affect Wear
Material selection is only part of the assessment. Bend geometry, flow speed, and where particles strike the wall can affect how wear develops. Discuss recurring failures with the people responsible for the process and equipment design.
What BSF Needs To Assess The Job
- Photos of the complete section and damaged areas
- Diameter, bend radius, length, and flange details
- Remaining thickness measurements, if available
- The material being conveyed and its operating conditions
- The current material and history of previous repairs
- Whether you need a full section, a liner, or a replaceable panel
Send a drawing or sample where possible. BSF can discuss a matching fabricated section and the information needed for a quote.