Automated Boiler Cleaning Technology

Valmet Shock Pulse Generator

The Shock Pulse Generator (SPG), is online boiler cleaning equipment that automatically generates Shock Pulses (SP) through the use of pressurized gas combustion. This innovative alternative to Steam Sootblowers has proven its outstanding performance worldwide with more than 800 different installations in 20+ countries.

Solve tough challenges

The Valmet Shock Pulse Generator (SPG) is a uniquely tailored solution for tough boiler cleaning applications. Through the use of combustion-generated pulses, the unit efficiently removes ash and slag build-up across a broad range of boiler applications.

Safe operation

Safe cleaning operation with no collateral damage to boiler tubes.

Space savings

When compared to sootblowers, the SPG has a much smaller footprint. This is particularly helpful in areas that plug up frequently, but adding an additional sootblower isn’t an option because of a lack of space.

What is a Shock Pulse Generator?

Developed in 2009, the Shock Pulse Generator (SPG) is an on-line boiler-cleaning device that generates automatic, directed shock pulses/waves. The shock waves are created through the controlled combustion of a mixture of burnable gas (Natural Gas or Methane) and air. Contrary to manual processes, the combustion is carried out automatically and outside of the boiler, in a pressure-resistant device. The resulting supersonic shock wave is introduced into the boiler by means of a valve and a discharge nozzle. The combustion gas, the boiler tubes, and walls are put into a short oscillation, so that deposits, i.e. slag and fly ash, are cleaned off.

Automated combustion of gas and air generates Shock Pulses for cleaning deposits

Function and cleaning effect

The SPG is mounted to the outside of the boiler wall with a discharge nozzle being introduced into the boiler by means of a boiler nozzle or manhole. SPG's are manufactured from special high-pressure, high-temperature stainless steel and are available in two different models, SPGr10 and SPGr16.

The following steps are performed during one cycle:

Filling of the combustion chamber with methane / natural gas and air
Mixing of gases in the combustion chamber
Ignition by glow plug
Opening the piston, releasing the discharge valve
Injection of shock pulse into the boiler
Short shock pulse cleans heating surfaces, removing slag and fly ash
Cleaning without damage to boiler tubes

Benefits

Permanent and automated boiler cleaning
Lower exhaust temperature and higher boiler efficiency
Improved CO2 plant performance
No thermal abrasion or damage to the boiler tubes
Reduced cleaning needs during maintenance stops
High degree of operational safety – boiler remains closed during operation
Reduced space requirements
High industrial standard (CE-certification based on Pressure Equipment Directive, clearly defined ATEX zones, PLC system monitoring, PROFIBUS/MODBUS compatible)

Industries

The online boiler cleaning equipment removes slag and ash and can be used to replace or enhance sootblowers, shot ball systems, water canons, rapping systems, sonic horns, and shower cleaning systems (SCS).

Applications include: