HISTORY OF BREECH-LOCK CLOSURE

Invented and developed in 1960 by Standard Oil Co. of California . The first breech-lock was put into operation in 1966. Rights of technology remain with Chevron Research Company of California. In 1982, ABB LUMMUS HEAT TRANSFER became a licensee for the worldwide marketing of high pressure Breech-Lock heat exchangers. Over 600 Breech-Lock high pressure heat exchangers are in operation worldwide. Approximately 300 have been manufactured by IMB. Finds applications in refinery units operating at high pressure and temperature with hydrogen rich streams such as Hydrocrackers.

EXCHANGER BATTERY

Exchanger Assembly

Sectional view

Applications
High Temperature/High Pressure Units: Hydrocrackers / Hydro-treaters Gas Compression Ammonia Synthesis Miscellaneous

MAIN FEATURES
Reliable High Pressure Performance Sealing Easy Dismantling/Reassembly for Inspection Avoidance of High Stressed Zones in Pressure Parts In Service Seating of Internal Gaskets

Closure Features and Advantages

Hydrostatic Load Of Channel Cover Is Absorbed by the Channel

Forging
No Threaded Holes in Forging or in the Cladding Tightening of Gasket by Relatively Small Bolts Spiral Wound Gaskets are Used in the Girth Joints Channel Cover is Relatively Thin and Light Re-Tightening of Tubesheet Gasket During Operation Possible.

Assembly of multiple shells

Sectional View

Sectional View

Channel side view

HASSEMBLY OF CHANNEL