How Steam System Chemistry and Control Affect Steam Side Coil Corrosion

Ferric oxide, hematite, "red rust" , it has a lot of names but there is no argument that it is undesirable. It is a loosely adhering oxide layer which has poor heat transfer capabilities. It also tends to deposit elsewhere in the system. It can deposit in the coil, in steam traps and piping downstream, and can eventually reach the boiler. In the boiler it can form further deposits, which in turn retards heat transfer, which can lead to tube failures.