What can excessive hardness in feedwater lead to in boiler operation?

Excessive hardness in feedwater can lead to scaling and potential boiler failure due to the formation of mineral deposits on the heat transfer surfaces of the boiler. When hard water is heated, the minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, can precipitate out and accumulate on the surfaces. This scaling acts as an insulating barrier, which reduces heat transfer efficiency. As a result, the boiler may have to work harder to produce the same amount of steam, leading to increased fuel consumption and operational costs.

Moreover, significant scaling can lead to overheating of boiler components, which may cause severe damage or even catastrophic failure if not addressed. Therefore, monitoring and controlling the hardness of feedwater is critical in maintaining proper boiler operation and extending the equipment's lifespan.