What Does
Baffle Mean?
A baffle is a flow-directing panel in vessels like tube heat and shell exchangers, static mixers and chemical reactors. Baffle panels or baffle plates vary in terms of materials, weight and other factors, but those made of high-strength materials such as fiberglass are ideal for underwater control situations.
The quality of the baffle panels dictate whether or not it is capable of preventing rotting or corrosion.
A baffle may also be known as a baffle panel or baffle plate.
Corrosionpedia Explains Baffle
At industrial sites, systems that make use of baffles face the problem of corrosion, especially on exposed areas. For instance, vessels and tanks are prone to eroding as the gases that are generated within during anaerobic digestion can disperse into the atmosphere.
Among the gases that are produced during this process is hydrogen sulfide, which is denser than air. Thus, it is possible for it to settle under the tank. It then mixes with water vapor to produce sulfuric acid. After some time, the corrosive acid breaks the baffle and even the concrete.
Therefore, operators should closely monitor the condition of the baffle. Ideally, tanks and vessels should be vented properly. If not, there can be interruption or blockage. This can happen in water systems as well as contact and aeration chambers and similar structures.
In order to help mitigate the corrosion process, the baffle to be used should possess qualities such as:
- Corrosion resistance
- Low conductivity
- High strength
- Ultraviolet resistance
- Dimensional stability