boilers

The Effect of Water Quality on Boiler Systems

Water Quality

Water supplied to boilers may originate from rivers, ponds, wells, etc.  Unless a boiler receives the water of the proper quality, its life will be needlessly shortened.  Because of these variations in water supply, feed water should be analyzed to determine the proper pretreatment method.

Scale

Water hardness is the primary source of scale in boilers.  The sum of all minerals in water is called “total dissolved solids,” or TDS.  Calcium, Magnesium and Silica in feed water can cause a hard, dense scale to build up in boiler equipment. Scaling often occurs at the hottest surfaces and reduces flow through pipe which prevents the efficient transfer of heat.

Corrosion

Iron can be soluble or insoluble.  It can clog valves and strainers and accumulate at the bottom of the boiler in the form of heavy sludge.  Reducing iron in the water prevents corrosion and substantially increases the life of the boiler, as well as the peripheral equipment.

Other Factors

In natural waters bases such as bicarbonates, carbonates, hydroxides, silicates, borates, phosphates breakdown to form carbon dioxide in steam.  This is a major factor in the corrosion of condensate lines and contributes to foaming.

Solution

Century Water Conditioning and Purification can analyze your makeup water and suggest the system that best fits your needs.  Call today to schedule a free survey.

Call: 856-728-4500 or (800) Purify-6

water purification, water treatment
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