Pumping resin systems, especially those involving phenolic resins, pose unique challenges due to the sticky and coalescing nature of the resin. Ensuring smooth and continuous operation while preventing buildup and blockages requires careful planning and maintenance. JBW Consulting Engineers helps remove these barriers by understanding the unique properties and challenges faced when managing resin pumping systems. Senior Engineer, Jamie Lepage, shares some of these tips and tricks to help you better understand these systems.
Understanding the Nature of Resin
Understanding the nature of resin is key to preventing future complications. Resin tends to stick to itself and the internal surfaces of pipes, leading to potential blockages. When resin is left standing in pipes with exposure to oxygen, it starts to dehydrate and solidify, giving off volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The capillary action inside the pipes can be managed with a good pumping system, however problems arise when the system is shut down. Repeated shutdowns and restarts can exacerbate this issue, leading to a gradual narrowing of the pipe’s interior and increased pressure requirements on the pump.
Designing for Continuous Flow
In order to prevent blockages, JBW’s engineers would implement long loop systems. Designing your system with a “long loop” will ensure continuous circulation of the resin, even when the main machinery is shut down. By doing this, only the final connection to the machine should lack a way to flush, return and clean out, minimizing stagnant resin in the pipes.
Another way to help prevent blockages would be to implement flush connections at low points and critical junctions to allow for thorough cleaning. Incorporating a waste clean-out tank to flush the system with a cleaning fluid before a shutdown is critical to maintaining the system. The use of mineral spirits, naphtha or other suitable solvents to flush the system, is an effective way to remove resin residues. Regularly running the flush fluid through the system to clean out resin residues and prevent buildup allows the system to remain clear and functional.
Maintenance and Repair Strategies
Ventilation is key, as resin emits significant vapors when exposed or when running flush fluids through the system. Ensure your facility has adequate ventilation to handle these emissions safely, another service JBW is happy to assist with. Conduct regular inspections on the pumping system for leaks, especially around threaded fittings, flanges and valve packings. Addressing leaks promptly prevents resin from dripping and solidifying, which can create large stalactite-like formations that are difficult to remove.
Avoid stagnation by planning your shutdowns to help minimize the time resin sits idle in the pipes. If possible, schedule maintenance activities to keep the system running or flushing frequently. If this is not possible, before shutting down the system, flush it thoroughly with a cleaning fluid to remove as much resin as possible. Following the flush, drain the system completely to prevent resin from solidifying inside the pipes, making it easier to restart the system without blockages.
Removing Barriers
Pumping resin systems effectively requires a combination of good design, regular maintenance, and proper cleaning protocols. By understanding the unique properties of resin and implementing strategies to keep the system clean and free flowing, you can prevent blockages and maintain efficient operation. When it comes to complex systems dealing with sticky substances, JBW Consulting Engineers is the firm to call, whether that be designing the pumping system for max efficiency or designing the proper ventilation to keep you and your facility safe or both. JBW removes barriers and provides the solutions you need to keep your facility running smoothly, prevent blockages and maintain efficient operation. Use these tips and tricks to tackle the challenges of resin pumping systems and ensure smooth, continuous production in your facility.
