Unique Solution to Recovery Boiler Primary Port Attachment Wastage and Char Bed Control Problems, 1998 International Chemical Recovery Conference Proceedings

When operating at loads ranging from below nameplate rating to high overload conditions, a number of recovery boilers suffer from wastage to nozzles and crotch plates in the primary port area. Repair of this wastage can result in extensive maintenance costs while repeated welding and cutting on the composite tubes forming the port may lead to cracking in the composite layer. Failure to make repairs in this area may result in smelt leakage creating personnel hazards and damage to external equipment. In order to provide a permanent solution to this problem, The Anthony-Ross Company has retrofitted port castings and guillotine dampers to boilers not originally designed to accommodate their use. Installation experience has shown that the castings provide an acceptable alternative sealing and protection mechanism while exhibiting no wastage over a two year period of operation. Operational benefits derived from the use of guillotine dampers include immediate improvements in char bed control and operating flexibility.