Upstream copper alloy corrosion can cause what?

• A. Increase in pH
• B. Decrease in flow
• C. Formation of oxide scale
• D. Contamination of cooling water

Answer: (D)

Copper alloy corrosion releases copper ions and fine corrosion products into the circulating cooling water. When these dissolved ions and particles enter the coolant, they contaminate the water downstream, which can lead to discoloration, alterations in chemical balance, and deposition onto surfaces. The formation of oxide scale is a surface phenomenon on the metal, not a direct contamination of the water. A decrease in flow would come from fouling but isn’t the direct consequence of copper corrosion introducing contaminants into the coolant. Thus, contamination of the cooling water is the outcome caused by upstream copper alloy corrosion.