Electromagnetic corrosion control in water cooling systems

Purpose – The aim was to study the effect of an electromagnetic treatment used on corrosion control of carbon steel in cooling systems. Design/methodology/approach – The aim was to assess the performance of an electromagnetic treatment used on corrosion control of carbon steel in cooling water systems. Findings – The main conclusion is that the electromagnetic system cannot induce a direct effect on the corrosion rates. The use of chemical corrosion inhibitors cannot be suggested. Social implications – The optimized industrial use of water is an objective of unquestionable importance, as water is a finite resource. The use of efficient corrosion control on water cooling systems permits the reduction of the water volume required. Consequently, a social benefit can be associated with the improvement of corrosion control technologies. Originality/value – The development of alternative corrosion control technologies, such as the use of physical treatments, has been considered as a promising tool. In this work, a consistent assessment of the results achieved on a full-scale system, without using chemical corrosion inhibitors, is presented.