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From Filthy Filters to Clean Water: Boiler System Cleaned and Protected by Aquaguard 810 in Only 6 Weeks
At a glance
Poor water quality and lack of treatment in this process water boiler system meant regular shutdowns and cleaning were required. Aquaguard 810 and process improvements were introduced. The result: clean water, reduced maintenance cost, corrosion protection and no more costly shutdowns and cleaning.
Key metrics
94% DROP
IN DISSOLVED IRON
6 WEEKS
FROM FILTHY TO CLEAN
What years without treatment do to a hot water boiler system
Hot water heating systems hold the same water for a long time. Without treatment, the steel slowly corrodes, and the corrosion products circulate as sludge. Filters plug, gauges clog, and heat transfer suffers.
Blowing down and adding fresh water does not fix the problem. Fresh water brings in more oxygen, which feeds more corrosion.
This 200,000 L process water system, with five gas-fired hot water boilers, had run for several years without treatment. The site was dealing with regular shutdowns for cleaning, and plugged filters and pressure gauges.
Challenges
A 200,000 L system with five gas fired hot water heating boilers operated several years without treatment, increasing risk for severe corrosion damage. Regular blow down and fresh water addition failed to prevent costly shutdowns and cleaning. Pressure gauges and filters regularly plugged with corrosion by-products and debris.
Solutions
System assessment was completed and Aquaguard 810, an all-organic boiler treatment, was introduced. Equipment improvements included addition of a two gallon pot feeder, pressure gauge replacement, and installation of a relief valve in the filter housing.
Results
Clean Water and Clean System
After only 6 weeks of treatment, boiler water and filters were clean and clear.
Protected from Corrosion
Aquaguard 810 removed corrosion by-products from system, replacing them with a protective chemical film to protect the system from future corrosion. Iron levels in water dropped from 3.3 ppm to 0.19 ppm.
No More Shutdowns or System Pre-Cleaners
System pre-cleaners and shutdowns were eliminated, reducing system maintenance costs and enhancing reliability.
Data
AQUAGUARD 810ย is an all organic treatment composed of corrosion and scale inhibitors, dispersants and buffering agents for use in closed loop systems. ย It does not suffer from issues regarding waste discharge (heavy metal) or biological control (nutrient for bacteria), unlike molybdate and nitrite based treatments.
Frequently asked questions
What was changed in the system?
Aquaguard 810 was introduced, and the site added a two-gallon pot feeder, replaced pressure gauges, and installed a relief valve in the filter housing.
How long did it take to clean the system?
Six weeks. After that, boiler water and filters were clean and clear.
How much did iron levels drop?
From 3.3 ppm to 0.19 ppm.
Are shutdowns for cleaning still needed?
No. Shutdowns and system pre-cleaners were eliminated, cutting maintenance costs.