Analysis of hot water pipeline system leakage

An analysis of the catastrophic corrosion of the hot water pipeline system was made. The cause was oxygen, dissolved in water due to the malfunctioning of the degassing device in the water preparation phase. Because of differential aeration, cathodic and anodic areas formed underneath the oxide deposit on the bottom side of the pipeline. The consequence of the thus activated pitting corrosion was pipeline perforation. It is imperative to regularly test the water for dissolved oxygen and monitor its pH value.

► An analysis of the catastrophic corrosion of the hot water pipeline system was made.
► The inbuilt pipes in a hot water system are made from an appropriate material.
► An oxygen in the water caused three types of surface corrosion of the pipe wall.
► Uniform corrosion, corrosion under the deposit and tuberculation was observed.
► For corrosion prevention a regular control of the heated water is essential.