Cutting the tubes in half longitudinally revealed
extensive corrosive attack, primarily pitting on the inside
diameter. SEM (scanning electron microscope) equipped
with EDS (energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy) was used
to identify the elemental components of the various
corrosion products observed. A high level of chlorine along
with lower levels of sulphur and iron were detected in the
inside diameter of heat exchanger. Corrosive attack was
due to a high level of chloride and sulphur compound most
likely present in the water. The presence of iron indicates
contamination due to corrosion occurring elsewhere in the
system.