Scaling in domestic heating equipment: getting to know a complex phenomenon

Abstract

Excessive scaling is one of the main nuisances in relation to the use of drinking water. Ever more water companies try to minimise scaling. Although scaling is an old problem, prediction of scaling has been proven to be very tricky. Traditionally, the (Langelier) Saturation Index is used to evaluate scaling properties of drinking water. From experience it is well known that this parameter is not suitable for proper prediction. New parameters have been developed and standardised for scaling prediction, namely the Calcium Carbonate Precipitation Potential, calculated at a temperature of 90°C (CCPP90); the Saturation Index, also calculated at a temperature of 90°C (SI90); the Nucleation Index (NI) and the Measured Calcium Carbonate Precipitation (MCCP). These parameters are currently successfully used in The Netherlands. The development of new parameters to predict scaling in domestic heating equipment has resulted in a better understanding of processes involved. Even now unexpected and at first sight contradictory results are obtained frequently. With the use of the developed measuring techniques, solutions may be found to combat excessive scaling.