Sodium Hypochlorite Crystallization in Pipe System 1

[SloFlo]

Does anyone know why Sodium Hypochlorite Crystallizes in Pipe Systems. I am flowing 0.5gpm through a control valve and needle valve and the lines clog up and lots of white crystals form around the valves. Thanks

 

[unclesyd]

We had a similar problem with a chlorination system for CTW and the crystals turned out to be NaOH. I don't know what the resolution was.

 

[pleckner]

First, you need to analyze what the crystals are. Second, you need to have your solution analyzed for all constituents, not just what you think is in it. It is often the minor components that the supplier doesn't tell you about that cause all the problems. Check the temperature you operate at, get a hold of a phase diagram for the system and see where crystallization takes place and at what concentrations. If your piping isn't insulated and/or traced, perhaps it is time you do so.