Industrial Descaler
An industrial descaler is a product, usually acidic, that dissolves limescale, scale and other mineral deposits stuck to equipment, circuits and surfaces.
Scale forms mainly when hard water is heated or evaporates and calcium and magnesium carbonates precipitate. These layers reduce heat transfer in heat exchangers and boilers, clog nozzles and pipes, and provide shelter for soil and microorganisms. The descaler works by dissolving the mineral deposit; its effectiveness depends on the type of acid, the concentration, the temperature and the contact time. Afterwards, rinse with plenty of water.
Before use, compatibility with the material must be checked: acids can damage natural stone, terrazzo and some metals. They must not be mixed with chlorinated products. When the cause is hard water, treating the water reduces how often descaling is needed.
Instaquim descalers, according to their technical data sheets:
- Nitracip Pro (pH 1 %: 1.5; nitric acid; 0.5–1 % by recirculation for 15–20 min at 40–60 °C): circuits and CIP systems in the food industry.
- Detercal 1N (pH 1 %: 1.5; hydrochloric and orthophosphoric acids; 15–20 % by immersion, 5–10 % by circulation): scale and limescale deposits, rusty installations and scale with adhered grease; contains corrosion inhibitors for ferrous metals.
- Gresclean (pH 1 %: 2.4; ready to use): stoneware tile joints and floors; avoid contact with natural stone and terrazzo.
- Eco Kal (pH 2.0; lactic acid; used neat; EU Ecolabel ES-CAT/020/026): washbasins, sanitary ware, taps, shower screens, walls and stainless steel.