Innovation Exchange challenge: Innovative Methods for Cleaning Pipes & Vessels

Rolls-Royce SMR Ltd (RR SMR) is aiming to deliver a series of power stations around the world using small modular reactor (SMR) technology. A key aspect of the programme will be to move most of the testing, fabrication and assembly into a factory environment – away from the traditional construction site approach. The plant will be built in factories and housed in modules which will then be commissioned and shipped to the power station site for assembly. A significant proportion of these modules will contain piping and vessels which will require cleaning.

Traditionally, cleanliness in pipe systems is achieved through flushing, until effluent water achieves the suitable cleanliness, per the relevant standard.  This approach requires a significant volume of water, requires drying afterwards, and takes time.

RR SMR is seeking technologies and techniques being used by adjacent sectors and industries to achieve pipe cleanliness that do not rely principally on flushing, thereby reducing the amount of water used in the cleaning process and to reduce the time taken in flushing & drying operations. The focal point of the challenge is how RR SMR will achieve cleanliness of their components before assembly and installation, as early as possible in the production line. However, technologies that allow for reestablishment of cleanliness post-assembly of modules are also of interest.

Cleaning solutions need to be more sustainable, reducing the environmental impact and energy demands. RR SMR has identified some technologies that may be of interest:

• Robotic Cleaning Techniques
• Foam Plug Technology
• Solvent-Based Ultrasonic Cleaning
• Vapour Degreasing
• Carbon Dioxide Cleaning
• Plasma Cleaning
• Supercritical Fluid Cleaning
• Pneumatic Cleaning

Other technologies and solutions are welcome. Solutions should be TRL 6+ but newer technologies could be of interest. The focus should be on cleaning metals at this stage, but applicants are welcome to provide information on methods that could be used for later cleaning where mechanical constrictions, gaskets, seals and sensors may be present. RR anticipate using standard Austenitic Stainless Steels, High Strength Austenitic Stainless Steels, Carbon Steels, and Low Alloy Steel.

For full technical and functional requirements, visit the Innovation Exchange site at the link below.

Who can apply?

Entrants to this competition must be established businesses, academic institutions, start-ups, SMEs, or individual entrepreneurs, who are UK based or have the intention to set up a UK base.