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Corrosion protection for HVAC/R equipment is sometimes
viewed by equipment owners as a questionable expense,
or nothing more than a mere aesthetic problem. In coastal,
industrial and assorted other environments; corrosion
is an expensive reality. Corrosion as a whole costs
companies billions of dollars annually in higher
maintenance and repair costs, premature replacement
expenses, and in lost efficiency. Corrosion directly
increases the costs of operation.
In salt-laden environments, U.S. Navy tests indicate
that corrosive deterioration of aluminum fin stock begins
in the first 30 days. This is evidenced by the
appearance of grayish aluminum salts on the surface
of fin stock. This residue is the initiation of aluminum
oxidation and the beginning of fin embrittlement. As
aluminum oxidation progresses, heat transfer capability
of the fin stock deteriorates, increasing operating
costs.
Within the first two years, tests reveal that
HVAC/R system can experience as much as 55% loss
in operating efficiency. In addition to higher
operating costs, the compressor(s) is overworked, which
means corrosion leads to excessive operation and possible
compressor failure.
Another important factor in enhancing the longevity
of expensive HVAC/R equipment is the need for a proper
preventative maintenance program. A regular and ongoing
maintenance program should be in effect for both coated
and un-coated equipment whether in a corrosive environment
or not. Available to customers at no charge is a copy
of Bronz-Glow's "Owners Coated Coil Cleaning & Maintenance
Guide."
Cost is a factor in any business decision, however
the upfront expenditure to provide a protective coating
for equipment in a corrosive environment should be considered
an investment, not an expense. The payback of the investment
comes from longer-lasting equipment delivering designed
energy efficiencies with fewer repair bills. In addition,
you substantially reduce inconvenience and costs associated
with downtime.
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