HRS Heat Exchangers replaces infrastructure at Avonmouth facility

HRS Heat Exchangers has supplied a 4.3 MW array of DTI Series heat exchangers to YTL Group for the Avonmouth wastewater treatment facility, operated by Wessex Water. The new equipment replaces aging carbon steel infrastructure used in the site’s acid phase digestion (APD) process for producing biogas and digestate.

The previous carbon steel unit had begun to corrode, causing sludge to leak into the heating water. The replacement units are constructed from 316L stainless steel to provide superior corrosion resistance. Additionally, the design incorporates stainless steel bellows to replace older rubber fittings, intended to extend the operational lifespan of the system.

Due to site constraints and operational requirements, YTL Construction and engineering partner Mills Engineering Services Ltd faced a strict 72-hour installation window within a congested area of the facility. The new design also features hinged hatches with Victaulic connections to allow for faster inspection and cleaning.