Alkaline treatment is a proven tool for reducing the occurrence of flow restrictions in copper hollow conductors caused by oxide deposits. Its action is based on the reduced solubility of Cu++ in alkaline water. Hydrodynamic parameters like water flow velocity, turbulences, temperature etc. also play a role. Therefore alkaline treatment is beneficial but is not the only decisive parameter for avoiding flow restrictions. However, there are indications that alkaline treatment produces thicker oxide layers than with neutral water. These oxide layers are nevertheless very thin and are of no concern as long as they do not migrate, e.g. by variations in the oxygen concentration or by fluctuations of pH. It is therefore very important to always keep alkaline treatment under good control. This also includes during shutdown periods. Alkalization with an injection pump is the simplest and most reliable method. Parallel dual beds are also used for alkalization, but they need careful expert supervision and follow some often overlooked rules, especially in regard to proper priming of the alkalization and a very restricted use of the neutral mixed bed.
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