What is the purpose of water treatment in feedwater systems?

The purpose of water treatment in feedwater systems is fundamentally to remove impurities that can lead to scaling and corrosion within the boiler. When water is used in steam generation, it often contains minerals and other contaminants. If these impurities are not adequately addressed, they can deposit on the boiler's heat transfer surfaces, leading to scaling. This adversely affects heat transfer efficiency, elevates the risk of overheating, and can ultimately result in equipment failure.

Corrosion is another significant concern in feedwater systems. The presence of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other corrosive agents can lead to the deterioration of metal components, further compromising the integrity and lifespan of water system equipment. Therefore, effective water treatment processes, like desalination, filtration, and chemical conditioning, are vital to maintaining a clean and efficient boiler operation.

While enhancing steam quality, increasing water temperature, and reducing water consumption are important aspects of overall water and steam management, they are secondary to the critical objective of preventing the damaging effects of impurities through water treatment.