Maintaining clean systems is crucial for ensuring process efficiency. This involves not only preventing scale buildup but also using specialized cleaning products, including pre-commission cleaners, which are part of closed circuit treatments.
Scale forms when dissolved salts, primarily calcium and magnesium, precipitate out of solution as water is heated. This "reverse solubility" problem is common in boilers, heat exchangers, and pipework. To manage scale, dispersant chemicals are used. These chemicals help react with residual hardness in the incoming feed water and prevent scale from depositing on surfaces. Common treatments include phosphate and chelate options, with acid descalers also suitable for specific applications and metal types.
Sludge conditioners, often organic polymers, are employed to reduce the adherence of suspended solids to heat transfer surfaces. These polymers interact with precipitates, forming particles that can be removed through blowdown.
Cleaning products are essential for addressing issues such as biofilm, corrosion deposits, or general soiling, helping to keep systems running smoothly and efficiently. Pre-commission cleaning of hot water heating and chilled systems has gained importance as modern equipment is more prone to blockages in strainers, control valves, and small-bore heat exchangers.
Contaminants like mill-scale, jointing compounds, and fabricating debris need to be eliminated through chemical cleaning and high-velocity flushing. This prepares the system for effective ongoing water treatment, which helps prevent corrosion and microbiological fouling. Older systems with accumulated deposits due to inadequate water treatment can be cleaned using similar methods.
INDUSTRIAL DESCALING CHEMICALS
We do not recommend using the following acid-based solutions for descaling sensitive metals such as aluminum or galvanized metals. For specialized advice on suitable alternatives, please contact our technical department.
