What cleaning method is used for shell and tube condensers?

Rodding is the correct method for cleaning shell and tube condensers. This technique involves using flexible rods to dislodge and remove accumulated deposits within the tubes. Shell and tube condensers often deal with significant fouling due to heat transfer processes, and physical cleaning methods like rodding are effective in breaking up tougher deposits that other methods may not be able to efficiently handle.

Using water washing, pressure washers, or scrubbing with chemicals may not provide the same level of thoroughness in cleaning as rodding. Water washing might not effectively remove all types of fouling, especially when dealing with scale or other stubborn materials. Pressure washing can potentially damage the condenser tubes if not done carefully, and chemical scrubbing may not be ideal for all types of contaminants or can lead to chemical residuals that need to be flushed out afterward. Thus, rodding remains the preferred method due to its effectiveness in maintaining proper thermal performance and prolonging the life of the equipment.