A normally operating water-cooled condenser is operating with a 10°F differential between water in and water out. If scale forms on the water tubes and the entering water is 85°F, which of the following is possible ?
A) The outlet water temperature will be lower than expected.
B) The system head pressure will rise.
C) The water regulating valve will close.
D) Both a and b are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When scale forms on the water tubes, the water cannot transfer heat as effectively to the tubes, reducing the overall heat transfer rate. This will cause the outlet water temperature to be lower than expected, and the reduced heat transfer can also increase the system head pressure. Therefore, both option a and b are correct. The water regulating valve might adjust to maintain the desired outlet temperature, but it is not stated whether it will close or not.

A Normally Operating Water-Cooled Condenser Is Operating with a 10°F