How can you prevent scale buildup in a boiler?

The prevention of scale buildup in a boiler is primarily achieved through the treatment of feedwater to control hardness. Hard water contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can precipitate and form scale deposits on the internal surfaces of the boiler as water is heated. This scale can insulate the heat transfer surfaces, leading to inefficiency, overheating, and potential damage to the boiler.

Treating feedwater involves processes such as softening, using chemical treatments, and filtration to remove these hardness-causing minerals before the water enters the boiler. By ensuring that the feedwater is free of excessive hardness, you significantly reduce the potential for scale formation.

Increasing temperature, adding more water frequently, or operating at higher pressures do not effectively address the underlying problem of mineral content in the feedwater and might even exacerbate scaling issues if hardness is present in the water being used. Hence, effective treatment of feedwater is crucial in maintaining boiler efficiency and longevity.