What is the role of chemical additives in boiler water treatment?

Chemical additives in boiler water treatment primarily serve to maintain desired pH levels and prevent corrosion within the boiler system. Proper pH control is critical in minimizing the corrosive effects of acidic or basic conditions in the boiler water, which can lead to damage over time. Additionally, chemical treatments often include compounds that form protective layers on metal surfaces, further inhibiting corrosion and enhancing the overall durability and longevity of the boiler components.

While other functions are certainly important in a broader context—such as enhancing heat transfer or improving fuel efficiency—those aspects are not the primary role of chemical additives in boiler water treatment. Filtration of impurities is usually accomplished through mechanical means rather than chemical methods. Thus, the main focus of using chemical additives is to create an optimal chemical environment that protects the boiler and its components from the potentially damaging effects of water chemistry.