Abstract
Corrosion and Scaling are the major waterside problems in industrial boilers. Calcium, magnesium, iron, copper and silica predominate in most boiler deposits. These deposits usually form a dense layer that impedes heat transfer and cause costly boiler tube failures. Most corrosion products that deposit in the boiler originate in the pre-boiler systems. The majority of corrosion products consist of colloidal and particulate metals and their oxides. The compounds are swept into the boiler and deposit on boiler tube surfaces. A major factor contributing to this problem is increased return of condensate containing corrosion products from various processes used throughout the steam plant. Internal corrosion must also be considered. Corrosion not only contributes to deposits, but also results in metal damage.
The new software program can predict scaling and corrosion tendencies based on relevant thermodynamic and transport processes in the steam cycle. Plant data is input on a routine basis and the software provides early warning of abnormal conditions and improves overall plant efficiency.
