In the field of industrial processes, evaporation plants play a crucial role in sectors such as the food, chemical and petrochemical industries. Depending on the processes these plants require efficient condensers to cool down and condense vapor, and a common but challenging method is the use of hard well water. Although hard well water is a cost-effective resource, it carries with it the persistent problem of scaling in condensers.
Hard well water, rich in minerals like calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium(Mg2+), is often employed in condensers for its availability and economic advantages. The water is circulated through the condenser tubes, absorbing heat from the vapor, and promoting the transition from gas to liquid. When hard water is employed as a coolant in a condenser, these minerals can scale on the surfaces, diminishing the efficiency of heat transfer and potentially causing operational issues.
Scaling occurs when the minerals in hard well water precipitate and form deposits on the heat exchange surfaces of the condenser. Over time, these deposits, commonly known as scale, can accumulate and reduce the efficiency of heat transfer. The consequences include decreased performance, increased energy consumption, and ultimately, the need for costly maintenance and repairs.
The KLAREN self-cleaning heat exchanger technology has proven to be effective in keeping condensers clean that are using hard well water as a coolant.
