How to remove Limescale from Pumps & Pipes
descaling, limescale, limescale remover, pumps
Pumps and Pipework affected by calcium and limescale can be chemically treated to remove deposits even if completely blocked, by using a combination of Triple7 Heavy Duty and Triple7 Enviroscale.Both products are worksafe, non-toxic and do not contain harsh acids which can damage equipment or place workers at risk. Selecting a low corrosion de-scaling agent is particularly important when dealing with expensive pumps that often contain sensitive components.
The Triple7 chemicals used in this guide can also be disposed of safely into waste water systems without further treatment.
Step By Step Guide: Removing Limescale from Pumps & Pipes
Safety Precautions
Triple7 Enviroscale is a low corrosion, non-toxic formula. In rare cases, however, it can cause mild irritation, particularly if prolonged contact with the product occurs. Gloves and protective glasses are recommended.
Triple7 Heavy Duty does not require eye or skin protection.
Step 1: Disconnect Equipment
Disconnect equipment to be de-scaled. Ensure that valves and other apertures are left open to allow chemicals to enter. It is usually not necessary to disassemble pumps.
Step 2: Pre-Soak (Optional)
Where significant blockages exist soak pumps and pipes in a hot solution of 10% Triple7 Heavy Duty for 8 to 10 hours. This will ensure the de-scaling agent is able to circulate through all parts of the equipment.
The used solution is safe to dispose of without environmental or safety precautions.
Step 3: De-Scale Soak & Monitor
Circulate or soak pumps and pipes in a 10% solution of Triple7 Enviroscale for 8 to 16 hours to remove calcium and scale. Agitation significantly increases the scale removal rate and, where possible, submersible pumps should be run in a bath of the descaling solution.
Monitor pH levels. pH can be monitored easily with test strips. Add more Triple7 Enviroscale to solution if pH rises above 3.
If foam is an issue, Triple7 Antifoam can be added at 1ml per litre of Triple7 Enviroscale.
Step 4: Flush & Dispose
Dispose of used solution through normal sewer or waste water system. Flush equipment with fresh water until pH level rises above 6.
Step 5: Re-Install Pumps and Install Pipework
Re-install all equipment and test for full operation. Scale, which has been dislodged during the de-scaling process may be captured in filtration systems and these should be monitored initially. If decreased flow is observed check and clean filters.
Want to learn more?
- Triple7 Enviroscale – Worksafe Descaling Agent >
- How to remove Limescale from Heat Exchangers, Condensers and Chillers >
- Case Study: Cooling Tower Limescale Removal with Minimal Downtime and Increased Safety, Rio Tinto >
- Case Study: Removing Scale Build Up in a Commercial Laundry >
- Case Study: Cost Savings & Superior Results with Limescale Removal at a Coal Mine >
- Case Study: Reducing Hazards and Expense in Heat Exchanger Limescale Removal >
I have a sink pipe in my kitchen completely blocked I suspect that Its Limescale build-up..The waste in the sink only goes away very slowly..what do you recommend, please. I have attempted to flush this out in the main sewer but only a few chunks of limescale came down the pipe BUT STILL BLOCKED
I would recommend using our Triple7 Eco-scale to fix this. Pour a bit down the blocked drain at a quieter period (e.g. late night) so that the Eco-Scale has maximum contact with the limescale. Repeat as required.