What effect does oxygen in feed water have on boiler systems?

Oxygen in feed water is known to have a significant negative impact on boiler systems, primarily by contributing to pitting corrosion. When oxygen enters the boiler water, it reacts with iron and other metals present in the boiler components, leading to localized areas of corrosion known as pits. These pits can form rapidly and may cause serious damage if not addressed.

The presence of oxygen promotes the oxidative corrosion process, where metal is attacked electrochemically, resulting in these small but damaging pits. Over time, the structural integrity of the boiler components can be compromised if pitting is allowed to progress unchecked.

In contrast, while scaling and overheating are critical concerns in boiler operation, they are not directly caused by the presence of oxygen. Scaling is primarily the result of mineral deposits in the water, while overheating can occur due to insufficient water levels or poor heat transfer. Additionally, oxygen does not enhance corrosion resistance; rather it is known for promoting corrosion, particularly in the form of pitting, which underscores the importance of effective feed water treatment to remove dissolved gases before they can cause harm.