What type of damage is commonly caused by the presence of oxygen in boilers?

Pitting of boiler metal is a common type of damage that occurs due to the presence of oxygen in boilers. When oxygen is present in the water within a boiler, it can lead to corrosion, which often manifests as pitting. This localized form of corrosion results in small holes or pits forming in the metal surfaces of the boiler, particularly in areas where the protective oxide layer has been compromised.

This type of corrosion can significantly weaken the material over time, leading to potential failures if not properly managed. Pitting can occur in various parts of the boiler, especially around seams and joints, which are more vulnerable to corrosion.

Other damage types, such as cracking of welds or scaling of heat exchangers, typically arise from different causes, such as thermal stresses or mineral deposits, rather than directly from the presence of oxygen. Thinning of insulation is generally unrelated to oxygen exposure as it is more connected to thermal performance and wear rather than corrosive action on metal surfaces.