Overview
Chemical cleaning removes scale, deposits, corrosion products, and biological fouling from heat exchangers, boilers, condensers, and piping systems during commissioning, scheduled maintenance, or performance recovery. In refineries, petrochemical plants, and LNG facilities, cleaning chemistry, procedure design, and passivation are critical to restoring heat transfer efficiency without damaging equipment metallurgy.
Acid Cleaners
Mineral and organic acid formulations for removing scale, rust, and process deposits from metallic surfaces. Selection depends on deposit composition, metallurgy, and temperature limits.
- Hydrochloric Acid (Inhibited)
- Citric Acid
- Sulphamic Acid
- Phosphoric Acid
- EDTA-based
Alkaline Cleaners
High-pH formulations for removing oils, greases, biological fouling, and silica-based deposits. Used as a pre-cleaning or post-acid neutralisation step.
- Caustic-based
- Carbonate-based
- Surfactant-enhanced Alkaline
Passivation Chemicals
Applied after acid cleaning to form a protective oxide layer on freshly cleaned metal surfaces, preventing flash corrosion before the system returns to service.
- Sodium Nitrite
- Citric Acid Passivation
- Proprietary Passivation Blends
Corrosion Inhibitors (for cleaning)
Dosed with acid cleaning solutions to protect base metal from excessive attack while dissolving scale and deposits.
- Acid Corrosion Inhibitor
- Filming Inhibitor