Scale characteristics and removal

Abstract

Scaling, fouling of heat exchange surfaces, may significantly reduce heat transfer and thus affects the energy-efficiency of a sugar factory. Particularly lime salts and silica are known as the main components of scale, but fouling by deposition of insoluble organic substances may occur too. This paper summarizes the different causes of scaling in both beet and cane factories as well as the average composition of scale found at the different process stages. The process chemicals generally applied for removal of scale from heat exchange surfaces will be briefly discussed.