3
1. The Scale and Rust Problem
1.3 Problems caused by Scale and Rust
• Blocked piping system
• Loss of water pressure due to a reduced pipe diameter
• Rust accumulation in the pipes that may lead to corrosion
• Bacterial growth in drinking water carrying pipes
• Repeated repairs or replacement of household appliances
• Replacement of the whole piping system
• Loss of energy in the hot water circuit and high costs for heating
• Dull surfaces in bathroom and kitchen
• High cleaning costs and the need of aggressive cleaning agents
• Malfunctioning machinery
• High production costs due to maintenance
• Long pauses in production when machinery has to be maintained
and cleaned leading to inefficient production planning
• Decrease in productivity
1.3.1 Rust - the common problem with scale
Unfortunately, scale deposits also attract other unwanted substances
which again create even more problems and threats: The main
components of scale are calcium and magnesium. This would lead us
to believe that scale deposits have a white color. However, most scale
deposits are brown. As soon as scale deposits built up, all iron and
oxidized iron particles imbed into the scale. This also means that rust is
firmly attached to the pipe which causes a serious threat to the pipe by
pitting corrosion.
1.3.2 Bacterial growth - the side effect of scale
Scale deposits are also perfect breeding ground for bacteria and other
unwanted micro-organisms. As the deposits have an uneven, rough
surface, these little sockets are a perfect hide-out for bacteria to nest
in. Whether in cold or hot water, you will always face an increase in
potentially dangerous bacteria growth on the scale.
Water heater
Washing machine heating element
Heat exchanger
Tube heat exchanger
Plate heat exchanger
Pipe with scale deposits
