Pipe and tube cleaning: challenges and how to overcome them

Initial tube and pipe cleaning simply explained

Pipe and tube claning with STAUFF Clean
Worldwide
11/26/2024
Estimated read time: 5 minute/s

Pipe and tube cleaning: challenges and how to overcome them

Initial tube and pipe cleaning simply explained

Pipe and tube claning with STAUFF Clean
Worldwide
11/26/2024
Estimated read time: 5 minute/s

Introduction to pipe and hose cleaning

In industrial systems, especially in hydraulics and pneumatics, reliable initial cleaning is essential. Contamination in tubes, hoses and pipes can cause damage to dirt-sensitive components, resulting in expensive repairs and production downtime. Thorough tube and pipe cleaning helps to ensure the safety and efficiency of the entire system.

In this article, we will explain how to clean pipes and tubes and avoid all common mistakes. You can also use the methods mentioned here to clean hoses and thus increase the initial purity of your hydraulic system.

Conventional cleaning methods and their limitations

The best-known method for cleaning tubes and pipes to date is flushing with liquids. In this process – using a hydraulic system as an example – the hydraulic medium is used to flush tubes, hoses, pipes or lines. The problem: liquid flushing generates waste products that have to be disposed of. This method is therefore inefficient, especially for longer lines.

To replace this method, we at STAUFF have developed the STAUFF Clean system.

How STAUFF Clean works

The STAUFF Clean system uses a special compressed air pistol combined with various nozzles and cleaning projectiles. The cleaning projectiles are accelerated by compressed air and pressed against the inner walls of the lines to remove dirt particles. Thanks to various nozzle sizes and projectiles, the system is suitable for tubes, pipes, hoses and lines with different diameters and lengths of up to 100 metres.

A projectile that is slightly larger than the pipe or tube is selected.
1.
The correct nozzle is being chosen for the process
2.
Insert projectile into the compressed air gun
3.
Pipe and tube cleaning with STAUFF Clean
4.
A projectile that is slightly larger than the pipe or tube is selected.

1.

The correct nozzle is being chosen for the process

2.

Insert projectile into the compressed air gun

3.

Pipe and tube cleaning with STAUFF Clean

4.

A projectile that is slightly larger than the pipe or tube is selected.
1.
The correct nozzle is being chosen for the process
2.
Insert projectile into the compressed air gun
3.
Pipe and tube cleaning with STAUFF Clean
4.
1.

Select the right projectile

Always select a projectile that is slightly larger than the internal diameter of the product you want to clean.

The advantages of the STAUFF Clean system

Compared to traditional methods, the STAUFF Clean System offers several advantages:

  • Efficiency: tube, pipe and hose cleaning is faster and more efficient than with liquid rinses.
  • Cost savings: the system reduces the need for chemical cleaning agents and minimises waste.
  • Thoroughness: the special cleaning projectiles of the STAUFF Clean System ensure deep and thorough pipe, tube and hose cleaning.

Projectiles and their use in the STAUFF Clean System

The STAUFF Clean System offers different cleaning projectiles:

  • Projectiles S (Standard): for general cleaning ofpipes, tubes and hoses.
  • Projectiles C (Coupling): for cleaning hoses with couplings.
  • Projectiles A (Abrasive): for removing rust and heavy deposits.
  • Projectiles G (Grinding): for stubborn dirt in metal pipes and tubes.

By selecting the appropriate projectile, the hose, pipe and tube cleaning is adapted to the specific requirements of the respective system.

Challenges in pipe and tube cleaning with STAUFF Clean

When cleaning pipes, hoses and tubes, typical challenges that can lead to inadequate results often arise:

  • Insufficient air pressure: If the air pressure is too low when using cleaning equipment, dirt may not be completely removed.
  • Wrong projectiles: Without the right cleaning projectiles, dirt particles and deposits remain in the pipe or tube.
  • Leaks: An inadequate seal between the nozzle and the pipe or hose will reduce the cleaning effect.

To help you avoid these problems, the following chapter provides tips for the optimal use of the system. If you have any further questions, our product experts will be happy to help.

Tips for optimal cleaning results

To make cleaning of tubes, pipes and hoses as effective as possible, please note the following:

  • Select the right projectile: The size and type of projectile should match the type of dirt and the diameter of the tube, pipe or hose.
  • Select the appropriate nozzle: In addition to the universal nozzle, which is suitable in 90% of cases, special nozzle sets are also available for particular types of screw connections or lines. For more information, please refer to our catalogue.
  • Multiple cleaning: Repeat the cleaning process several times until the projectile comes out without any residue.
  • Seal tightly: Ensure an airtight seal between the nozzle and pipe or tube to achieve the full cleaning effect.

Safety precautions during use

When working with the STAUFF Clean System, safety precautions are essential:

  • Protective clothing: Wear safety goggles, ear defenders and a respirator.
  • Air pressure check: Check that the air pressure is between 6 and 8 bar to ensure optimal cleaning performance.
  • Safety net or collection container: Attach a collection net to the end of the pipe or hose to safely catch the escaping projectiles. Alternatively, you can also shoot into a collection container, such as a barrel.

FAQs

What is the STAUFF Clean System particularly suitable for?

What are the advantages of STAUFF Clean compared to traditional methods?

What projectiles are available for tube cleaning?

How to avoid typical mistakes when cleaning tubes with STAUFF Clean?

Can the STAUFF Clean system be used on all types of pipe and tube?

What internal diameters can the STAUFF Clean system be used on?

Can I use a cleaning pellet more than once?

Can I combine several pellets to clean a line?

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