DISTRIBUTION MAINTENANCE BULLETIN B22MB92004
01234567-5-XX34XXXX9XX

SUBJECT: STEAM INJECTION NOZZLES

Dear MILNOR Dealer:

During the past few months, we have seen a remarkable increase in steam mixing nozzle (sparger) failures. As a result of this problem, we are concerned that an improper welding procedure may have been used on many of these nozzles made in the last few years.

The usage of the fabricated MILNOR sparger includes larger open-pocket washer/extractors, divided cylinder machines and CBW's. The recent failures have included the nozzle coming loose from the sparger assembly and being trapped between the shell and basket of a CBW. This relatively small piece of metal caused severe damage to a CBW module and necessitated replacement of the module.

In order to reduce the chances of catastrophic damage to the machine, we ask you to accommodate the following request:

1. When working on open-pocket or divided cylinder machine, inspect the sparger through the basket and be sure that the sparger remains intact and that no foreign objects are found in the sump of the machine.

2. On any machine, listen for loud "rumbling" which would indicate that the sparger is not intact. Advise the customer of our findings and visually inspect the sparger through the basket, or in the case of a CBW, remove the sparger from the shell and take corrective action.

3. At no time should any foreign object (part of a sparger) be left inside the shell of any washer/extractor or CBW.

4. If a replacement sparger is needed, please call the MILNOR Parts Department immediately to have a replacement sparger shipped at MILNOR's expense.

A retrofit policy is being developed at this time to include any machines which we expect have potential sparger problems. Until this retrofit is announced, please take every step possible to replace any faulty spargers currently installed.

As always, we appreciate your concern and efforts to keep MILNOR equipment working at its best.


Best regards,

PELLERIN MILNOR CORPORATION

Gary Lazarre
Manager
Customer Service

GLL/das