Device and method for removing foreign object from heat transfer tube

A method for removing a foreign object from a heat transfer tube, the method comprising:

• cutting at least a portion of a heat transfer tube where a foreign object is located and an adjacent heat transfer tube;
• moving a connecting tube upward to which a manipulator is mounted by inserting the connecting tube into the heat transfer tube;
• holding a portion of the foreign object by an end part of the manipulator;
• seating the foreign object in the manipulator by gravity by moving the manipulator;
• and
• discharging the manipulator out of the heat transfer tube-
• wherein the manipulator comprises:
• a first part fixedly coupled with an end part of the connecting tube;
• a second part protruding upward from the first part along a portion of a circumference of the first part;
• and
• third parts protruding from two opposite ends of the second part along a circumferential direction of the first part such that an inner space is defined between the second part and the third parts.

A method for removing a foreign object from a heat transfer tube, the method comprising:

• cutting at least a portion of a heat transfer tube where a foreign object is located and an adjacent heat transfer tube;
• moving a connecting tube upward to which a manipulator is mounted by inserting the connecting tube into the heat transfer tube;
• holding a portion of the foreign object by an end part of the manipulator;
• seating the foreign object in the manipulator by gravity by moving the manipulator;
• and
• discharging the manipulator out of the heat transfer tube,
• wherein in the seating of the foreign object in the manipulator by gravity,
• the manipulator performs at least one of an upward movement, a downward movement, and a rotation inside the heat transfer tube.