What is a significant cause of boiler tube corrosion when burning refuse?

The presence of chlorides is a significant cause of boiler tube corrosion when burning refuse because chlorides can lead to localized corrosion problems, specifically pitting corrosion. When refuse, which often contains various materials including plastics and paper, is burned, the combustion can release chlorinated organic compounds. These chlorides, when deposited on boiler tubes, can react with the metal in the presence of moisture, creating a highly corrosive environment.

This corrosive reaction is exacerbated at lower temperatures, where the deposition of chlorides can become more pronounced, particularly in areas of the boiler that experience low heat transfer efficiency. Therefore, managing chloride levels is crucial in minimizing corrosive damage and prolonging the life of boiler tubes when operating with refuse as a fuel source.