Heat Exchanger Inspections
PSSR examinations for shell-and-tube, plate and finned heat exchangers in commercial and industrial applications.
LDN Inspection Services provides statutory PSSR examinations for heat exchangers used in HVAC, process heating, cooling and heat recovery systems. Our qualified pressure systems engineers examine all types of heat exchangers, calorifiers and economisers, delivering clear digital reports with photographic evidence.
Heat Exchanger PSSR Examinations
Heat exchangers are pressure vessels that transfer thermal energy between two or more fluids. Under the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR), heat exchangers operating above atmospheric pressure must be included in a written scheme of examination and examined by a competent person at specified intervals. This applies to shell-and-tube, plate, finned and all other types of pressurised heat exchangers.
Heat exchangers are subject to corrosion, erosion, fouling, thermal fatigue and stress cracking over their operational life. Internal tube failure can lead to cross-contamination between fluid circuits, while external shell or header failures can result in sudden loss of containment. Regular examination is essential to identify deterioration before it leads to unsafe conditions.
Our examinations cover the pressure-containing components including shells, heads, tubes, tube sheets, nozzles, flanges, gaskets and safety devices. Where accessible, we carry out internal inspection and thickness measurements. We provide detailed reports with clear defect categorisation and practical recommendations.
Key Requirements
- Written scheme of examination covering all pressure-containing parts
- Regular examination by a competent person at specified intervals
- Safety valves and pressure relief devices must be tested
- Safe operating limits clearly defined and documented
- Defects must be reported and corrective action taken promptly
Equipment We Inspect
Our pressure systems engineers examine all types of heat exchangers and thermal transfer equipment, including:
What We Check
Vessel & Structure
- Shell, heads and nozzle condition and corrosion
- Tube bundle condition, wall thickness and fouling
- Tube sheet integrity and tube-to-tubesheet joints
- Gaskets, flanges and bolting on plate heat exchangers
- Support structure, saddles and foundation fixings
Safety Devices & Controls
- Pressure relief valve operation and set pressure
- Temperature controls and high-temperature cut-outs
- Pressure gauges and temperature indicators
- Isolation valves and drain points
- Nameplate data and safe operating limits
Our Inspection Process
A systematic approach to heat exchanger examination ensuring safety and PSSR compliance
Pre-inspection review of written scheme, design data and maintenance records
External examination of shell, heads, nozzles, flanges and support structure
Internal inspection of tubes, baffles and tube sheets where accessible
Assessment of safety devices including pressure relief valves and temperature controls
Thickness testing and corrosion assessment at critical points where required
Digital report with photographs, defect grading, measurement data and recommendations
Sectors We Work With
We provide heat exchanger PSSR examinations for organisations across manufacturing, commercial HVAC and process sectors
Why Choose LDN Inspection Services?
Specialist heat exchanger expertise, clear reporting and reliable UK-wide service
Heat Exchanger Inspection FAQs
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