Final answer:
The two main ways to prevent scale formation in a steam boiler are using water softeners and chemical additives.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two main ways to prevent scale formation in a steam boiler are:
- Using water softeners: Water softeners remove the calcium and magnesium ions from the water, which are the main culprits for scale formation. By removing these ions, the water becomes less prone to scale formation.
- Using chemical additives: Chemical additives such as scale inhibitors and dispersants can be added to the boiler water to prevent the formation and accumulation of scale. These additives work by either inhibiting the crystal growth of scale-forming minerals or by dispersing the formed scale particles so that they are carried out of the boiler with the blowdown water.