Inspection & testing
Plate heat exchanger inspection and testing
Finding a cracked plate or a failing gasket before it causes cross-contamination or an unplanned shutdown is the point of inspection and testing.
Overview
Why plates and packs need testing
Plates are thin pressed sheets. Corrosion, fatigue and pressure spikes can cause cracks and pinholes that are invisible from outside the pack but allow one medium to leak into the other.
Inspection and testing confirm the condition of the plates and the integrity of the assembled pack, so you can decide on cleaning, regasketing, plate replacement or a rebuild with evidence rather than guesswork.
Warning signs
When to call us
- Suspected cross-contamination between media
- Unexplained loss of product or fluid
- Unit returning to service after a long shutdown
- Following a pressure event or process upset
- Before and after a rebuild
- Part of a scheduled inspection
What’s included
What the service covers
01
Crack testing
Plates are crack-tested to find cracks and pinholes.
02
Leak detection
Leaks are located and traced to gaskets, connections or plates.
03
Dimensional checks
Pack dimensions are checked against the original specification.
04
Testing after rebuild
The assembled unit is tested before it is returned to site.
05
Written report
Findings and recommendations documented for your records.
Our process
How the job runs
- Unit details and history
- Visual inspection
- Crack testing
- Assessment
- Report and recommendations
Equipment
Suitable equipment and applications
- Gasketed plate heat exchangers
- Plate packs removed for workshop service
- Units returning to service
Industries
Where we do this work
FAQ
Common questions
Do you crack test every plate?
During a workshop service, plates are crack-tested as part of the process.
Will I receive a report?
Yes — findings are documented in a written service report.
Related
Related services and parts
Workshop servicing
Full strip-down, clean, crack test, re-gasket and rebuild at our Granville workshop.
Replacement plates
Plates matched to your unit’s model, pattern and material.
Rebuilds & refurbishment
Return a tired unit to service with a planned rebuild of the plate pack and frame.
Get in touch
Need a unit tested?
Tell us about the unit and the problem — a nameplate photo and a short description are enough to start.