Blowdown Vessels - BEX | ADCA

ADCA BEX – Blowdown Expansion and Cooling Unit

The ADCA BEX is an expansion and cooling vessel designed for boiler blowdown water and hot industrial effluents prior to discharge into drains or sewer systems. Operating at atmospheric pressure, hot water enters the vessel and is mixed with cooling water via a controlled valve, ensuring the outlet temperature is reduced to acceptable levels before drainage.

Technical Specifications

• Models: BEX15, BEX30, BEX40, BEX50, BEX60, BEX80
• Material: Carbon steel; stainless steel construction available on request
• Connections: ISO 7 Rp / NPT, EN 1092-1 PN16, ASME B16.5 Class 150
• Maximum allowable pressure: 0.5 bar
• Maximum allowable temperature: 120°C
• Minimum operating temperature: -10°C
• Design code: AD-Merkblatt

Sizing Selection

Sizing is based on the flow rate of hot water to be cooled. Typical ADCA reference capacities: 150 kg/h for BEX15, 300 kg/h for BEX30, 600 kg/h for BEX40, 1500 kg/h for BEX50, 3000 kg/h for BEX60, 5000 kg/h for BEX80.

Process Connections

The unit includes nozzles for blowdown inlet, vent outlet, drain outlet, cooling water inlet, thermometer connection, and provisions for thermostat or temperature sensor. Optional spray systems for flash steam condensation can be integrated at the vessel top.

Control Arrangements

Standard configurations may include:

• Self-acting temperature regulator TR25
• Pneumatic on/off cooling water valves
• Y-type strainers
• Non-return valves
• Exhaust head
• Manifold for multiple boiler inlets
• Timer and pneumatic blowdown valve for automatic cycles

Installation and Maintenance

Blowdown lines should be designed with low-point drainage, as vessel inlets are typically above boiler drain valves. Pipework must be independently supported to avoid mechanical loads on the vessel. Post-commissioning, leak checks at all connections are recommended within 24 hours. Periodic wall thickness inspections are advised, especially with corrosive or poor-quality water.