What is the primary effect of scaling in a boiler?

Scaling in a boiler primarily leads to reduced efficiency and potential overheating. When minerals and other impurities present in the feedwater accumulate on the internal surfaces of the boiler, they form scale. This scale acts as an insulating layer, hindering the transfer of heat from the boiler's heating elements to the water or steam.

As a result, the boiler must work harder to reach the desired temperature, decreasing its overall efficiency. Additionally, because the scale insulates the heating surfaces, it can lead to localized overheating. This can cause failure of the boiler components, reducing reliability and potentially leading to costly repairs or unsafe operating conditions.

In the context of a boiler's performance, scaling negatively impacts steam production and heat transfer, while increasing operating costs due to higher energy consumption. Therefore, managing water quality and implementing scaling prevention measures are crucial in maintaining boiler efficiency and safety.