FLAME DETECTORS SHUT DURING OFF-LINE COMPRESSOR WATER WASH.

I operate GE flame 9E mark 6. During Compressor off-line water wash, the flame detectors cooling water valves are shut. But I know that the cooling water system does not get in contact with the compressor washing water. What could be the reason for closing the flame detectors valves?
 
Jimmyco,

Prior to the days of Reuter-Stokes FlameTrakkers which require auxiliary cooling the flame detectors were mounted on tubes which had manually-operated gate valves between the flame detector and the combustion can. During an off-line compressor water wash, it was customary to close those manually-operated gate valves to prevent water/detergent from impinging on the flame detector lens.

Was it completely necessary? No. EXCEPT for the tubes that did not pitch back toward the combustor (some did, and some didn't). This would prevent drainage and provide a place for water/detergent to remain after the procedure was complete. So, the instructions were just written to close ALL of the manually-operated flame detector isolation valves during an off-line water wash (makes it simpler for simpletons).

So, if the unit at your site does not have manual isolation valves between the flame sensor and the combustor and someone is instead closing the cooling water isolation valves during an off-line compressor water wash, then they are performing unnecessary steps which could be eliminated (the step to close the valves and the step to open the valves). As you stated, there is no chance of water wash detergent mixing with the cooling water, or vice versa.

Someone is probably using an old procedure, and it has not been updated to reflect the conditions and equipment at your site.
 
Jimmyco,

Prior to the days of Reuter-Stokes FlameTrakkers which require auxiliary cooling the flame detectors were mounted on tubes which had manually-operated gate valves between the flame detector and the combustion can. During an off-line compressor water wash, it was customary to close those manually-operated gate valves to prevent water/detergent from impinging on the flame detector lens.

Was it completely necessary? No. EXCEPT for the tubes that did not pitch back toward the combustor (some did, and some didn't). This would prevent drainage and provide a place for water/detergent to remain after the procedure was complete. So, the instructions were just written to close ALL of the manually-operated flame detector isolation valves during an off-line water wash (makes it simpler for simpletons).

So, if the unit at your site does not have manual isolation valves between the flame sensor and the combustor and someone is instead closing the cooling water isolation valves during an off-line compressor water wash, then they are performing unnecessary steps which could be eliminated (the step to close the valves and the step to open the valves). As you stated, there is no chance of water wash detergent mixing with the cooling water, or vice versa.

Someone is probably using an old procedure, and it has not been updated to reflect the conditions and equipment at your site.
Thank you sir for this information. The arguement was so much proceeding the write up. Iam grateful.
 
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