CPI - Plates Material

[vjr0512]

For an Effluent treatment plant in an refinery + petchem, the Client specification calls for Stainless steel plates for the CPI plate pack. The Contractor suggests and recommends for 1.2mm thick FRP plate packs and informs that this is the standard material through out the world. They also inform that the life of these FRP plate packs ( if handled properly during lifting and cleaning) are 12 to 16 years.

Can anyone share their experiences of these CPIs with Stainless steel plate packs and FRP plate packs? Are there any factors to consider before making an decision on this Material? Is the average life of the CPI with FRP plate packs as claimed by the contractor is reasonable?

As per the tech data sheet, the total oil in the influent is 150 ppm and the Suspended solids in the influent is 475 ppm.

Thanks in advance for the reply

 

[bimr]

FRP materials are less expensive for a reason, FRP will not have the service life of stainless steel. You should reject the FRP and ask for stainless.