Scale deposits

Scale deposits, also known as limescale or scale, is a problem in many areas of surface technology, particularly in industrial boilers, heating systems, pipelines and heat exchangers. These deposits are caused by the accumulation of calcium and magnesium salts present in hard water.

In surface technology, scale deposits can impair the performance of systems and lead to a number of problems. For example, they can hinder heat transfer in heat exchangers, resulting in increased energy consumption and reduced system efficiency. In addition, scale deposits can lead to corrosion by preventing contact between the metal substrate and the surrounding medium, thus shortening the service life of the system.

The prevention of scale deposits is therefore an important aspect of surface technology. This can be done by using softening systems that treat the hard water and reduce the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions. In addition, special coatings or surface treatments can be applied to the affected surfaces to prevent or reduce the formation of scale.

The removal of scale deposits is also important and can be done by chemical cleaning methods or mechanical methods such as scraping or rinsing. However, these cleaning processes should be carried out with care to avoid damage to the affected surfaces. Overall, the control of scale deposits is an important aspect of surface engineering that improves the performance and reliability of equipment and extends its service life. By using appropriate prevention and cleaning methods, the negative effects of scale deposits can be minimized.