What effect does oxygen in boiler water have?

Oxygen in boiler water is particularly detrimental as it leads to pitting corrosion, which can significantly compromise the integrity of boiler materials. When oxygen is present in the water, it reacts with iron or steel surfaces to form rust and other corrosion products. This localized corrosion can lead to the formation of pits, which are small, often deep holes that can cause unexpected failures and leaks, ultimately shortening the lifespan of the boiler apparatus.

While pitting is a serious concern, it's important to recognize that oxygen can also contribute to general corrosion issues and, while not explicitly mentioned in this context, could affect heat transfer negatively. Therefore, understanding the impact of oxygen not only highlights the dangers of pitting but also emphasizes the broader implications of corrosion on boiler efficiency, safety, and maintenance requirements.