Question 275Steam Plants - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is D) alkaline. To minimize metal corrosion in boiler water, it is best to maintain an alkaline environment. An alkaline pH helps form a protective oxide layer on metal surfaces, which prevents corrosion. Keeping the boiler water slightly alkaline, typically in the range of pH 8.5 to 10.5, is the recommended practice to inhibit corrosion of the boiler and associated metal components. The other options are incorrect because: A) slightly acidic water would promote corrosion, C) fairly acidic water would also be corrosive, and B) a neutral pH does not provide the protective alkaline environment needed to minimize corrosion.