Investigation of calcium carbonate scaling on ELF surface

The formation of scale on heat transfer surfaces in cooling water systems i s a frequent engineering problem. The present paper deals with the scaling process of calcium carbonate on a copper modified heat transfer surface wit h low surface energy-electroless plating (ELP) surface. The induction perio d of calcium carbonate scaling is investigated. The results indicate that a n ELF surface can reduce the scaling rate and prolong the induction period compared with a copper surface. The scaling rate increases and the inductio n period is reduced with increasing initial surface temperature and fluid v elocity. During the induction period, calcite was formed on ELF surface und er experimental conditions, the crystal grains formed on the ELF surface we re larger in size than that formed on copper surface, and the distribution of the grains on the ELF surface was different between the upstream and dow nstream regions. There were more grains formed in the downstream region. Th e outmost surface morphology of calcium carbonate scale is also studied.