Integrated Global Services (IGS) has introduced Rovex, a robotic cleaning platform designed to improve fired heater convection section cleaning for the energy, power, refining, petrochemical, and heavy industrial sectors.

The new system builds on the company's TubeTech robotic cleaning technology, combining proven cleaning methods with enhanced robotic mobility, improved access capabilities, and digital performance verification. According to IGS, Rovex is designed to navigate complex tube geometries using patented cleaning lance technology and integrated inspection capabilities while eliminating the need for confined-space entry.

Fired heater fouling is a major source of thermal efficiency losses in refining and petrochemical operations. IGS said Rovex is designed to clean more than 90% of accessible tube surface area, helping operators restore efficiency while reducing the risk of equipment damage associated with conventional manual cleaning and water jetting.

Each deployment includes thermal performance analysis before and after cleaning to identify fouled areas and verify operational improvements. According to the company, recent projects have achieved fuel efficiency improvements of up to 2.9%, stack temperature reductions of up to 60°C (108°F), annual carbon dioxide emissions reductions exceeding 1,600 tonnes, and payback periods of less than three months, depending on furnace design and operating conditions.

IGS also highlighted a recent deployment at Oman Methanol Company, where Rovex reduced stack temperature by 34°C (93.2°F), improved fuel efficiency by 1.8%, restored convection section performance, and helped return the facility to full production capacity while lowering fuel consumption and associated emissions.

Eric Duvekot, Vice President of Engineering at IGS, said the new platform incorporates years of field experience, customer feedback, and engineering development to provide broader convection section access and greater confidence in verified performance improvements.