The primary function of a boiler is to transfer heat from hot gases generated by the combustion of fuel into water until it becomes hot or turns to steam. The steam or hot water is then used in a variety of facility processes. Boiler feedwater often contains impurities, which impair boiler operation and efficiency. To improve feedwater quality and steam purity, as well as correct other problems caused by impurities, chemicals can be injected directly into the feedwater or steam. Chemical additives increase boiler efficiency, reduce fuel, operating and maintenance costs, minimize maintenance and downtime, and protect equipment from corrosion and extend equipment life.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Identify and describe the safety guidelines associated with boiler feedwater chemical additives
- Describe why boiler water treatment is needed
- Identify the two major approaches to treating boiler feedwater
- Identify the reasons that internal chemical additives are used in boilers
- Describe the purpose of each of the following types of boiler water chemical additives: Phosphates, Chelants, Polymers, Oxygen scavengers, Antifoaming agents, Neutralizing amines, and Filming amines