Corrosion Protection in Solar Thermal Systems Using Aggressive Water
Morocco
“We went from responding to breakdowns to proactively monitoring the system. This made a huge difference in our maintenance efforts.”
A real estate developer in Morocco contacted QUIMACER due to repeated issues with several solar thermal systems at a residential complex.
The facilities operated in an environment characterized by high ambient temperatures, dust, and highly mineralized water.
Within a few months of operation, performance losses, partial blockages, and signs of corrosion on the circuit's metal components became apparent.
The local maintenance staff had drained and refilled the water, but without proper chemical treatment or a protective package.
The goal was to stabilize the circuits and reduce user complaints and maintenance costs.
Problems Identified
- Internal corrosion in metal components caused by aggressive water and a lack of inhibition.
- Formation of mineral deposits at low-velocity points and in hot zones.
- Reduction in flow rate and heat transfer.
- Frequent maintenance interventions that do not address the root cause.
- Risk of shortening the service life of pumps, valves, and heat exchangers.
Our Intervention
- QUIMACER requested information on the type of water, operating temperature, circuit materials, and observed symptoms.
- A critical combination was identified: mineralized water, thermal cycles, and the absence of corrosion inhibitors.
- It was recommended that the system be flushed before applying the inhibitor, since an inhibitor does not remove existing deposits unless they are first flushed out.
- It was proposed to apply an anti-corrosion treatment suitable for thermal circuits, followed by monitoring of pH and conductivity.
- A monitoring protocol was established for preventive maintenance and concentration control.
Solution Implemented
- Initial cleaning of affected circuits to reduce deposits and improve circulation.
- Application of V-1038 ANTICORROSION PACK as chemical protection against corrosion in a thermal circuit.
- Adjust the dosage based on the system volume and the quality of the feed water.
- Post-processing of circuit parameters: pH, conductivity, fluid appearance, and flow rate through each branch.
Technical objective: To stabilize the circuit water, protect metals, and reduce scale formation.
Results and Improvements
Stabilization of the behavior of the treated circuits.
Reduction in incidents caused by blockages and corrosion.
Improved flow and heat transfer after cleaning and protection.
Less frequent corrective maintenance.
Greater confidence among end customers in solar thermal systems.
| Parameter | Technical Details |
|---|---|
| Sector | Solar thermal / residential |
| Location | Morocco |
| System | Solar thermal systems |
| Problem | Corrosion and deposits |
| QC Products |
V-1038 ANTI-CORROSION PACK |
| Recommended Checkup |
pH, conductivity, flow rate, and appearance of the fluid |
| Key Improvement |
Reducing Incidents and Protecting Components |
WHY QUIMACER?
- Specific treatments for thermal circuit protection.
- A preventive approach, not just a corrective one.
- Adaptation to local water quality.
- Fewer incidents and longer component service life.
