Lime Scale Deposits Along Piping Systems

by Abdullah Alkhamali

Submitted : Fall 2017

The problem of lime scale deposits causes blockages and eventual clogging along piping systems, this project attempts to solve the problem using the continuity equation.  In fluid dynamics, the continuity equation ensures that regardless of the diameter of the pipe, the amount of fluid passing through remains the same throughout the pipe profile. Low pressure in the pipes due to these lime scale deposits remains a massive problem.

The approach taken for this problem was done through various calculations in an attempt to come up with a proper and more permanent solution to clogging of piping systems in different water distribution systems, whether on a small scale or a large scale. These calculations were done to demonstrate the principle of conservation of mass in the equation of continuity. The principle of conservation of mass states that the mass of fluid at the beginning of a fluid channel should be equal to that at the end of the channel. From the calculations done, it was found that though the velocities may be slightly different due to the change in diameter, the amount of fluid passing through the pipe conduits remains the same. The conclusions drawn from this project are that the importance of the equation of continuity cannot be undermined in any attempt to reduce the problems encountered in fluid dynamics, specifically the deposits on pipes due to calcium and magnesium deposits that have become a nuisance to almost everyone in the society who is affected either directly or indirectly. 

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