Testomat 2000 PO4 – Phosphate Measurement in Steam Boiler Systems
Applications of the Testomat 2000 PO4 (Orthophosphate) in Steam Boiler Systems
The dosing of phosphate-containing products is an established method in water treatment.
One of the main applications is phosphate dosing in steam boiler systems. Two fundamental application principles must be distinguished.
Phosphate Dosing in Boiler Feedwater
In this application, orthophosphate measurement is used to monitor the required target concentrations in boiler feedwater, detect the carryover of dosing chemicals, and monitor water conditioning programs.
Monitoring Boiler Water Chemistry in Steam Boilers
When monitoring boiler water chemistry, a cooled sample of boiler water is analyzed. The objective of the measurement is to monitor the phosphate concentration in the boiler water. The measured value is used to control phosphate dosing. The main reason for using phosphate-containing products in this application is to bind residual hardness-forming substances, such as calcium, that remain in the feedwater.
3Ca2+ + 2PO43− → Ca3(PO4)2
The calcium phosphate formed in this process can be removed through boiler blowdown. Since substances introduced with the feedwater become concentrated in the boiler water, even very low concentrations in the feedwater or traces of residual hardness (0.1 °dH) can lead to deposits forming inside the boiler. These deposits are also referred to as boiler scale.
The products are dosed in liquid form or as prepared formulations using flow-proportional dosing pumps, such as those from the EMEC Prisma or EMEC K-Plus series.
Preventing Boiler Scale and Improving Energy Efficiency in Steam Boilers
Deposits on the inner walls of the boiler act as an insulating layer and reduce heat transfer. As a result, more heat must be supplied to generate the same amount of steam, leading to increased energy consumption. As deposits continue to accumulate, the boiler may no longer achieve its rated capacity, resulting in a drop in steam pressure during periods of increased steam demand.
If existing pitting corrosion is superficially sealed by boiler scale, there is a risk that the corrosion may continue to spread undetected. Under further thermal stress, this can lead to structural failure of the boiler.
Benefits of Continuous Phosphate Monitoring with the Testomat 2000 PO4
By using the Testomat 2000 PO4, you not only keep your process under control but also actively and continuously monitor optimal phosphate dosing. You sustainably reduce chemical consumption, help preserve the value of your steam boiler, and at the same time reduce energy costs to the necessary minimum.
