Project Background

A large integrated steel production facility sought to recover waste heat from low-temperature flue gas generated by its boiler and utility systems. Conventional metal heat exchangers experienced severe acid dew-point corrosion, resulting in frequent shutdowns and high maintenance costs.

To achieve deeper heat recovery and long-term reliability, a fluoroplastic-steel low-temperature economizer system was implemented.

PROJECT PARAMETERS

Operating Data Table

Item Value
Boiler Capacity 220 t/h
Flue Gas Flow Rate 680,000 Nm³/h
Flue Gas Inlet Temperature 165°C
Flue Gas Outlet Temperature 95°C
Heating Water Flow Rate 1,050 t/h
Heating Water Inlet Temperature 55°C
Heating Water Outlet Temperature 85°C
Flue Gas-Side Resistance ≤ 850 Pa

* Project data shown for reference of a typical steel industry waste heat recovery application. *

CHALLENGES

  • Acid Dew-Point Corrosion

    The flue gas contained sulfur compounds and moisture that generated acidic condensate below the dew point temperature.

  • Limited Recovery Depth

    Conventional metal systems could not safely reduce flue gas temperature below approximately 120°C.

  • Frequent Shutdowns

    Corrosion-related failures resulted in repeated maintenance and equipment replacement.

  • Energy Loss

    Large quantities of usable low-temperature thermal energy were discharged to atmosphere.

SOLUTION

Fluoroplastic-Steel Low-Temperature Economizer System

Installed between the induced draft fan and desulfurization tower:

  • ● Fluoroplastic corrosion resistance
  • ● Steel structural strength
  • ● Low-temperature condensation resistance
  • ● Long-term thermal recovery stability

This enabled reliable operation below the acid dew point while maintaining stable heat transfer performance.

RESULTS

  • Deeper Heat Recovery

    Flue gas discharge temperature reduced from 165°C to 95°C.

  • Reduced Maintenance Frequency

    Significant reduction in corrosion-related shutdowns and replacement cycles.

  • Improved Energy Utilization

    Recovered heat reused for plant heating water systems.

  • Long-Term Operational Stability

    Continuous operation under acidic condensation and high-humidity conditions.

PROJECT VALUE

  • Higher Thermal Efficiency

    Recover more usable thermal energy from existing operations.

  • Lower Operating Cost

    Reduce utility consumption through waste heat utilization.

  • Improved Reliability

    Minimize shutdowns caused by corrosion-related failures.

  • Better Lifecycle Economics

    Extended equipment lifespan and lower maintenance expenditure.

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