The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies (FoC) uses eddy current testing to evaluate the condition of chiller tubes.
What is a Chiller Tube?
Chiller tubes are the internal pipes enabling a water-cooled chiller to transfer heat out of a building. Often comprised of copper or stainless steel, chiller tubes carry chilled water that circulates throughout a facility via an HVAC system while the refrigerant on the tube’s exterior absorbs or releases heat. The chiller is more energy efficient and effective when the tubes are clean and in good condition. Their condition directly affects system performance and long‑term reliability, underscoring the importance of proper maintenance to keep an HVAC system running smoothly.
What Causes Chiller Tube Deterioration?
Standard maintenance and inspections are effective at gauging the general condition of an HVAC unit, but not all inspections will include an assessment of chiller tubes. A combination of various thermal, chemical, and mechanical factors can contribute to tube deterioration, and unaddressed deterioration can cause tube leaks, leading to a series of complications within an HVAC system, including:
- Reduced refrigerant levels, leading to inefficient heating and cooling
- Increased energy costs
- Compressor overheating, leading to damage or overheating
- Unplanned downtime due to repairs
Eddy current testing is an effective way to evaluate a chiller tube’s condition before it leaks and leads to other issues.
About Our Chiller Tube Eddy Current Testing Services
Eddy current testing is the preferred rapid, non‑destructive method for evaluating chiller tubes in commercial HVAC systems. Our technicians use an electromagnetic current-inducing precision probe to inspect tubes and detect the following issues:
- Corrosion
- Erosion
- Cracking
- Thinning
We deliver rapid inspections and clear reporting, supported by our experienced, certified technicians and state-of-the-art equipment. Our services help our clients do the following:
- Detect chiller tube defects early
- Strengthen preventative maintenance strategies
- Optimize the performance of HVAC systems
- Reduce the likelihood of chiller tube-caused HVAC failures
The Benefits of Eddy Current Testing for Chiller Tubes
Early detection of chiller tube flaws gives maintenance technicians the opportunity to repair deteriorating tubes before defects lead to additional issues. Eddy current testing is also a great way to ensure that tubes in good condition aren’t needlessly replaced.
Contact Us
Call+1 (888)-287-5227 or submit an online request to learn more about how our eddy current testing experts can evaluate your chiller tubes.
