Industrial plant operators are constantly seeking cost-effective and readily available sources of makeup water. Nevertheless, the utilization of a low-cost water source does not guarantee a reduction in overall operational costs. It is evident that water sources which are less expensive and more readily available tend to be lower in quality and more difficult to maintain throughout the various processes of power generation. When evaluating a water source for use in plant operations, one must consider two major points: availability and water chemistry. The availability is how much of the proposed water source is available for use in the processes. The water chemistry is far more complex and nuanced. It includes considering the corrosion and scale potential, deposition and fouling potential, biological and organic demand, and finally, overall program costs.
This paper discusses these concerns and provides a brief summary of a recent project in which the author participated. Due to the costs associated with using the current river water source, the plant wanted to explore using a well water supply already on site.
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