Boiler and Cooling Water
Appropriate measurement methods ensure that quality is maintained in applications where water is used as the central cooling and heating medium. When used correctly they also help to minimise plant maintenance costs.
Cooling water is used in industrial processes to dissipate large amounts of heat. Boiler feed water, on the other hand, is used in the water/steam circuit for electricity generation in power stations. The water has to meet specific requirements for both applications, which is why it is analysed on a regular basis.
Cooling water
Critical parameters are monitored through regular laboratory tests and continuous online measurements in accordance with VGB standards and the size of the facility. This is the only way of ensuring flawless and cost-effective operation.
Key parameters (depending on the type of facility) include:
- Hardness / m/p-value
- Conductivity
- Turbidity
- Phosphates
- Disinfection with chlorine, chlorine dioxide or ozone
- Ammonium
- Chlorides
In addition to a wide selection of photometric cuvette tests, we also offer simple titration methods, for example, digital titrators for a fast way to determine water hardness.
Boiler feed water
The quality requirements for boiler feed water are similarly high. The operating life of the facility can be optimised by complying with these requirements and continuously monitoring critical parameters. This avoids the need for premature repairs and maintenance work.
The most important parameters are: conductivity, pH, sodium and silica concentration and as the primary corrosion parameter, oxygen content. Our Orbisphere K1100 optical sensor (used in conjunction with the 410 transmitter) and the new portable Orbisphere 3100 provide continuous oxygen monitoring. Both are based on the innovative LDO technology.
Demineralisation of raw water or condensate water is an important element in the production of boiler feed water. Dissolved minerals/salts can be deposited on heating surfaces, in pipes or on turbine blades, causing significant damage.
The functionality of ion exchangers can be monitored continuously by measuring parameters such as the conductivity or silicate content with the Polymetron 9210.
Other parameters include:
- Alkalinity
- Ammonium
- Phosphates
- pH
- Oxygen binders such as hydrazine, DEHA or carbohydrazide
- Turbidity
- Iron/copper
With over 75 years' experience in water analysis, HACH LANGE offers a comprehensive product portfolio for cooling water and feed water analysis in power stations.