“Five Nines” and Infrared Testing (IR) at Data Centers

In the next two installments, we will examine the damage caused by oxygen corrosion in boiler feedwater and condensate return systems during operating and layup periods.  A major focus is on carbon steel corrosion and control methods.

Maintenance in the world of pumps is basically no different than any other machinery-based industry. It requires the same common sense and good practices that make any machine with moving parts run, accomplish goals, run with great dependability and most importantly, make the owner money.

The focus of the previous installment was on cooling water microbiological fouling and control basics, as fouling can cause the most prompt and intense damage in cooling systems.  However, scaling and corrosion can be problematic as well.  Because scale and corrosion control programs often overlap, the next two installments will outline, respectively, primary scale-forming and corrosion mechanisms (scale formation in cooling water systems).  We will tie these together in Part 5 when examining the evolution of scale/corrosion control programs.  

Mechanical seals are often overlooked because of their small size compared with pumps, motors, piping systems, and other rotating equipment components. However, their role is critical. A mechanical seal is not simply a replaceable wear component—it is a containment device, reliability component, emissions-control barrier, and, in many applications, a key safety feature.

Any number of impurities can cause scaling and corrosion in boilers unless properly controlled. But even with properly-treated makeup, boilers require internal treatment to minimize corrosion and other problems. The high-temperatures and pressures in boilers magnify chemical reactions and corrosion mechanisms. This installment examines important boiler water treatment concepts.