Alkalinity or AT is the ability of a base to neutralize acids to the stoichiometric point of carbonate or bicarbonate, or the measurement of the buffering capacity of water. Measuring alkalinity in water systems is imperative because it determines system’s ability to neutralize acidic contamination from rainfall or wastewater, given the increased occurrence of pollution. Alkalinity does not refer to pH level per se, but rather refers to the ability of water to resist pH change. Most common buffering compounds are bicarbonates (HCO3-) and carbonates (CO32-), but occasionally, hydroxides (OH-), borates, silicates, phosphates, ammonium, sulfides, and organic ligands are also used. In the natural environment, carbonate alkalinity makes up the majority of the total alkalinity level because of the presence of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and the abundance of carbonate rocks. The unit mEq/L is usually given as its standard measurement, although when dealing with water systems such as steam boilers, the unit ppm or parts-per-million is usually given.
It goes to say that alkalinity for boiler waters is required to increase the pH level. In general, boiler water pH should be greater than 10.5 to ensure that the polymer chemical can work effectively to remove impurities made by scaling. In the long run, scaling impurities decrease your boiler heat
transfer efficiency which in turn will increase your energy costs. Also, if scaling is excessive, early tube replacement may be required. In high boiler pressure systems, if the total alkalinity exceeds the 3:1 ratio, silica plating may occur. Low boiler water pH may lead to excessive corrosion rates and premature boiler tube failure.
When handling alkaline products, extreme care should be exercised. Protective gear including masks, gloves, and laboratory goggles should be worn before handling the product. Alkalinity builders can cause one of the worst types of chemical burns.
It goes to say that alkalinity for boiler waters is required to increase the pH level. In general, boiler water pH should be greater than 10.5 to ensure that the polymer chemical can work effectively to remove impurities made by scaling. In the long run, scaling impurities decrease your boiler heat
transfer efficiency which in turn will increase your energy costs. Also, if scaling is excessive, early tube replacement may be required. In high boiler pressure systems, if the total alkalinity exceeds the 3:1 ratio, silica plating may occur. Low boiler water pH may lead to excessive corrosion rates and premature boiler tube failure.
When handling alkaline products, extreme care should be exercised. Protective gear including masks, gloves, and laboratory goggles should be worn before handling the product. Alkalinity builders can cause one of the worst types of chemical burns.
Boiler Chemical 1425
BC 1425 is a concentrated alkalinity builder in liquid form for boiler treatment. Product provides maximum alkalinity adjustment per pound. It is recommended for use in any water system requiring additional alkalinity to assure proper reaction, and will not give off any residual carbon dioxide to the steam produced. All ingredients are FDA-approved for steam boilers in contact with food.
