Boiler Scale

Name:
Boiler Scale
Detailed information:
A rocklike deposit occurring on boiler walls and tubes in which hard water has been heated or evaporated. Consists largely of calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, or similar materials, depending on the mineral content of the water. Boiler scale decreases the rate of heat transfer through the boiler and tube walls, resulting in increased heating costs and shortening of boiler life. Most boiler feed water is softened (treated to remove calcium and magnesium ions) before use. Scale may be removed by treatment with ammonium bicarbonate solution.See Water, Hard; Zeolite.