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Oxygen in boiler feed water can cause a number of problems, including corrosion, pitting, and scaling. This can lead to reduced efficiency, increased downtime, and costly repairs.
There are two main ways to remove oxygen from boiler feed water: mechanical and chemical.
Mechanical methods of oxygen removal involve heating the water and then venting the oxygen to the atmosphere. The most common mechanical methods are:
Dissolved oxygen is one of the leading causes of boiler corrosion and pitting — and it’s not always obvious until damage is done. Download ChemREADY’s free Boiler Checklist to make sure your feedwater oxygen levels, deaeration strategy, and treatment program are all where they need to be.
Chemical methods of oxygen removal involve adding chemicals to the water that react with the oxygen and remove it from solution. The most common chemical methods are:
The best method of oxygen removal for you will depend on a number of factors, including the size and type of your boiler, the quality of your water, and your budget.
If you have a small boiler and good quality water, you may be able to get by with a simple mechanical deaerator. However, if you have a large boiler or poor quality water, you may need to use a chemical oxygen scavenger in addition to a mechanical deaerator.
It is important to consult with a qualified boiler technician to determine the best oxygen removal method for your specific needs.
By the time oxygen pitting shows up in your boiler, the damage is already done. ChemREADY’s free Boiler Checklist walks you through feedwater oxygen control, deaeration efficiency, and chemical treatment — so you catch the problem before it catches you.
Chemical oxygen scavengers can be toxic and corrosive, so they must be handled with care. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using chemical oxygen scavengers.
It is also important to note that some chemical oxygen scavengers can react with other chemicals in the boiler water to form harmful compounds. Be sure to consult with a qualified boiler technician to ensure that the chemical oxygen scavenger you are using is compatible with the other chemicals in your boiler water.
By following these safety tips, you can help to prevent accidents and injuries.
From deaeration support to oxygen scavengers like Boiler Deoxy, ChemREADY provides complete boiler feedwater treatment solutions to control oxygen and extend equipment life.
