Retubing Tools You MUST Own In Your Supplies

Do you know what is retubing, and why is it important? Retubing is the process of replacing an aging or damaged tube in a heat transfer vessel. It is considered a routine maintenance procedure and can help improve the reliability and longevity of the vessel.

In this article, we’ll discuss why retubing is necessary and the tools you need to complete the process. So, if you’re wondering what retubing tools to purchase to get the job done, keep reading!

8 Essential Tools & Their Importance

Tube Gauges:

Tube gauges are used to measure the inner diameter (ID) of the tube and tube sheet hole. This is important for determining the correct size of the replacement tubes and the right tooling for the job.

Tube Cutters:

Tube cutters are often the first step in tube removal. Depending on the style of cutter you can easily cut out a few tubes or saw the entire bundle.

Manual Tools:

Manual tools, such as pneumatic hammers and chisels may be used to knockout tubes or tube stubs from the tube sheet. These are especially common in more difficult applications such as a grooved tube sheet or severely corroded tubes. While powerful, the main disadvantage to knockout tools is that they can cause damage to the tube sheet.

Spear Type Tube Pullers:

Spear-type tube pullers are a hydraulic tube pulling system used to remove tubes and tube stubs from heat exchangers and boilers. These systems offer a large pulling capacity, making it easier to break expanded tube sheet joints.

Spear Puller
Spear Type Tube Pullers:

Spear-type tube pullers are a hydraulic tube pulling system used to remove tubes and tube stubs from heat exchangers and boilers. These systems offer a large pulling capacity, making it easier to break expanded tube sheet joints.

Collet-Style Tube Pullers:

Collet-type tube pullers are designed to quickly remove tube stubs without causing damage to the tube sheet hole. This one step process grips, pulls, and releases the tube stub in a matter of seconds, making it a quicker alternative to spear pulling or knockout tools.

Grooving Tools:

Grooving tools are used to create grooves in tube sheet holes. This adds additional joint strength when tubes are expanded into the tube sheet.

End-Prep Tools:

End-prep tools are used to prepare the ends of the new tubes for installation. This is important for ensuring a proper expansion and preventing leaks.

Tube Expanders:

Tube expanders are used to install new tubes into the tube sheet. Whether it’s a boiler or heat exchanger tool, an expander is used to create a tight, leak-free mechanical joint.

Tube Expander
Find Top-Quality Retubing Tools At Elliott Tool Technologies

Elliott Tool Technologies is your one-stop shop for all of your retubing needs. We carry a wide variety of tube gauges, cutters, knockout tools, spear and collet type tube pullers, grooving tools, and end-prep tools.

With high-quality USA manufacturing, you can be assured that you’re getting the best possible products for the job. We also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products, so you can buy with confidence knowing that you’re getting the best possible products and service.