| Abstract |
Unplanned unit shutdowns or reduction in process unit throughput is often driven by poor heater performance. Damper and tube support performance both play a key role in the resiliency of a heater, with far reaching impact to the condition of the coils, refractory linings, and steel. Additional factors such as original design, manufacturing defects, condition, years of service and operational practices all come into play in the unexpected failure of a heater. Each of these factors will be explored in detail and suggested approaches to mitigate the associated risk to the heater long term will be discussed. |
