The Problem
A two-unit Midwestern nuclear power plant struggled to reach full power capacity as a result of calcium carbonate scaling in the main surface condenser.
The Solution
On the recommendation of the ChemTreat team, the power plant applied ChemTreat’s CN105 treatment to the water boxes of each condenser while the units were on-line.
The cleaning solution was circulated through the water boxes to dissolve calcium carbonate scale from the heat transfer surfaces.
The Results
CN105 helped the plant increase condenser vacuum by 0.5 inches of mercury, resulting in a load improvement of 10 MW on one unit and 7.5 MW on the second. The enhanced efficiency of the process will net the facility approximately $5.4 million per year (based on estimated revenue of $33.50 per MW-Hr).
More than 8 tons of calcium carbonate scale were removed from the water box over a 12-hour period.
Thanks to the CN105 treatment, the plant lowered costs associated with unit derate and avoided expenses associated with buying alternative power at retail prices, resulting in additional savings.
Before CN105 Cleaning
After CN105 Cleaning
Results are examples only. They are not guaranteed. Actual results may vary.
