What type of water is ideally used as feedwater?

The ideal type of water used as feedwater is deionized or distilled water because this water undergoes processes that remove impurities and dissolved minerals, making it highly pure. This is crucial in boiler systems and steam generation processes, where the presence of impurities can lead to scaling and corrosion. Such damage can not only reduce efficiency but also shorten the lifespan of equipment.

Deionized or distilled water ensures that the steam generated is also of high quality, minimizing the risk of carryover of contaminants into the steam system, which can cause operational issues. This type of water maximizes heat transfer efficiency and helps maintain the overall integrity and safety of the system. Other sources of water, like seawater, tap water, or well water, may contain various minerals and impurities that are undesirable in this context, potentially leading to greater operational challenges and inefficiencies.