Saep 1025

Engineering Procedure
SAEP-1025 1 January 2018

Chemical Cleaning of Steam Generation Systems
Document Responsibility: Corrosion Control Standards Committee
Contents
1 Scope ................................................................ 2
2 Conflicts and Deviations .................................... 2
3 Applicable Documents ....................................... 2
4 Definitions and Abbreviations ............................ 3
5 Roles and Responsibilities ................................ 4
6 Criteria for Cleaning........................................... 8
7 Preparations for Chemical Cleaning ................ 10
8 Cleaning Selection........................................... 13
9 Hot Alkaline Cleaning ...................................... 18
10 Removal of Copper.......................................... 25
11 Acid Cleaning .................................................. 26
12 Neutralization and Passivation ........................ 41
13 Fire-Side Cleaning ........................................... 44
14 Evaluating Cleaning Performance ................... 45
15 Precautions and Preparations after Cleaning .. 46
Revision Summary .................................................. 47
Appendix A - Contractor Submittals ........................ 48

Appendix B - Chemical Cleaning Log Sheet ........... 50
Previous Issue: 16 October 2016 Next Planned Update: 16 October 2019

Revised paragraphs are indicated in the right margin Page 1 of 50
Contact: Nader M. Al-Abdulmohsin (abdulmnm) on phone +966-13-8809551
©Saudi Aramco 2018. All rights reserved.

Document Responsibility: Corrosion Control Standards Committee SAEP-1025
Issue Date: 1 January 2018
Next Planned Update: 16 October 2019 Chemical Cleaning of Steam Generation Systems
1 Scope
1.1 This procedure defines the minimum requirements for cleaning of new and
existing steam generation systems such as steam generation equipment and heat
recovery steam generators (HRSGs), to remove internal and external
construction debris, including oil, grease and mill scale, prior to operation.
Refer to SAEP-1662 for cleaning of plant equipment and piping for all other
service fluids.
1.2 This procedure defines the responsibilities of the various departments involved
in chemical cleaning of new and existing steam generation systems. It outlines
methods to determine the need for chemical cleaning, the criteria for selecting
specific cleaning procedures, and the steps involved in various cleaning
procedure alternatives.
1.3 The scope of the procedure extends to all fired or waste heat, water tube, and
steam generation equipment and systems operating from 400 – 900 psig (27.5 –
62 barg). For steam generation equipment rated above or below these limits or
other steam generation equipment types, an individual cleaning program shall be
produced in consultation with Consulting Services Department, Material
Engineering Division, Corrosion Engineering Group (CSD/MED/CEG).
1.4 This procedure is supplementary to the steam generation equipment

manufacturer's cleaning recommendations. If warranty rights are involved, the
selected cleaning procedures shall be discussed with the manufacturer and
differences shall be resolved by PMT for new construction or Proponent for
existing steam generation systems.
2 Conflicts and Deviations
Any conflicts between this document and other applicable Mandatory Saudi Aramco
Engineering Requirements (MSAERs) shall be addressed to the EK&RD Coordinator.
Any deviation from the requirements herein shall follow internal company procedure
SAEP-302.
3 Applicable Documents
The equipment cleaning covered by this procedure shall comply with all Saudi Aramco
Mandatory Engineering Requirements and industry codes and standards, with particular
emphasis on the documents listed below. Unless otherwise stated, the most recent
edition of each document shall be used
Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

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3.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures

SAEP-302 Waiver of a Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering
Requirement
SAEP-327 Disposal of Wastewater from Cleaning, Flushing
and Dewatering Pipelines and Vessels
SAEP-1026 Steam Generation Equipment Lay-up Procedure
SAEP-1662 Cleaning of Plant Equipment and Piping
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard

SAES-A-103 Protection of the Marine Environment
Saudi Aramco Construction Safety Manual
Saudi Aramco Hazardous Waste Code (SAHWC)
Saudi Aramco Safety Management Guide

06-003-2013 Job Safety Analysis
Saudi Aramco Best Practices
SABP-A-036 Corrosion Monitoring Best Practice
SABP-A-051 Supplement to Chemical Cleaning Procedures
3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

American Society for Testing and Materials
ASTM D3484-14 Standard Test Method for Accumulated
Deposition in Steam Generator Tube
NACE International
NACE TM 0169 Laboratory Corrosion Testing of Metals
NACE TM 0193 Laboratory Corrosion Testing of Metals in Static
Chemical Cleaning Solutions at Temperatures
Below 93°C (200°F)
4 Definitions and Abbreviations
Alkaline Solution: Solutions of a soluble base that has a pH greater than 7 such as
soda ash.

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Blend Filling: A method of filling a vessel with chemical cleaning solution in which
the chemical concentrate (in liquid form) is metered into the filling line at such a rate as
to maintain the desired concentration level in the liquid entering the vessel.
Carbonize: Deposit containing iron sulfides or coke material
Chelating Agents: Chemicals such as Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid,

C10H16N2O8 (EDTA), etc.
Condensate: Good quality water having a conductivity of less than 50 µS/cm.
Inhibitor: A compound that retards an undesired chemical reaction such as corrosion

or oxidation.
JSA: Job Safety Analysis
M-Alkalinity: Methyl orange alkalinity which exists above the pH range of 4.2 to 4.4.
Mill Scale: A layer of iron oxide consisting of magnetite (Fe3O4) on the surface of hot
rolled steel.
Mils per Year (mpy): A measurement of corrosion penetration in thousands of an inch

(0.001) per year.
Neutralization and Passivation: A treatment for steel surfaces to give greater

resistance to corrosion by shifting the normal electrochemical potential of the metal
with a thin film of oxide.
Passivation: A treatment for steel surfaces to give greater resistance to corrosion by

shifting the normal electrochemical potential of the metal with a thin film of oxide.
Sacrificial Valve: A substitute valve used in a chemical cleaning operation in place of

the regular valve to prevent corrosion damage to that valve.
Surfactant: A compound which reduces surface tension when dissolved in water or

water solutions, or which reduces interfacial tension between a liquid and a solid.
5 Roles and Responsibilities
5.1 Saudi Aramco Project Management Team (SAPMT)
For new construction, SAPMT shall be responsible to:
5.1.1 Ensure the implementation of this procedure and compliance with all
requirements.
5.1.2 Facilitate and resolve any issues related to the implementation of this
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procedure with other Saudi Aramco organizations.
5.1.3 Coordinate and obtain approval of chemical cleaning procedures from

the Approval Authority (Proponent).
5.1.4 Arrange pre-cleaning and post-cleaning inspection with the Inspection

Agency.
5.1.5 Maintain a permanent written record of the cleaning operation,

i.e., temperatures, pressures, corrosion rates, time and date of cleaning,
chemical additions, and results of chemical cleaning analysis.
5.2 Execution Authority
The execution authority shall be the construction agency for new constructions,
while the plant maintenance shall be the execution authority for existing
facilities responsible to:
5.2.1 Prepare the equipment mechanically.
5.2.2 Provide maintenance support during the cleaning operation.
5.2.3 Coordinate with Operations Engineering to develop scope of work for

obtaining contractor’s services.
5.2.4 Coordinate cleaning operations and obtain approved contractor services.

Commentary Note:
Contact CSD/MED/Corrosion Engineering Group for the Saudi Aramco’s

approved list of cleaning contractors.
5.2.5 Ensure the implementation of this procedure and compliance with all
requirements.
5.2.6 Coordinate a pre-job meeting with the chemical cleaning contractor,

execution authority, and concerned parties before the start of the
chemical cleaning job.
5.2.7 Coordinate disposal of all waste water and chemical solutions as per
SAEP-327, SAES-A-103, and SAHWC.
5.2.8 Provide all resources and materials required to implement the hydrostatic
test and lay-up procedure, refer to SAEP-1026. This includes, but is not
limited to, installing temporary piping and equipment and providing
necessary labor.
5.2.9 Provide sufficient condensate or steam generation equipment make-up

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water, and nitrogen at site to accomplish the cleaning operations.
5.2.10 Report regularly all cleaning operations’ results to approval authority.
5.2.11 Provide all records to SAPMT for each cleaning operation and shall be
included in the Project Records turnover to SAPMT at the project end.
5.3 Approval Authority (Proponent)
The approval authority for new construction and existing facilities shall the
Engineering Superintendent (or his delegate). The approval authority or
proponent shall be responsible to:
5.3.1 Work with plant Maintenance to develop scope of work for obtaining
contractor’s services.
5.3.2 Prepare necessary operation procedures and advise the foreman of the
plant during the chemical cleaning of the equipment.
5.3.3 Act as a technical representative to address any technical queries during

the cleaning operation.
5.3.4 Perform a Job Safety Analysis as per Saudi Aramco Safety Management
Guide #06-003-2013.
5.3.5 Review and approve the cleaning procedures from Saudi Aramco
approved service providers.
5.3.6 Monitor the quality of the chemical cleaning fluids during the cleaning
activities.
5.3.7 Ensure adequate safety procedures and precautions are taken.
5.3.8 Notify Loss Prevention Department to review safety during cleaning, as

necessary.
5.3.9 Seek clarification, consultation, and technical support from CSD, as

needed.
5.3.10 Coordinate sampling and testing during cleaning activities with Area and
Regional Laboratories, if needed.
5.3.11 Maintain Log Sheets of cleaning operation. Typical log sheets include
what is shown in Appendix B, contractor's log sheets and the on-line
corrosion monitoring charts indicating corrosion rates vs. time, and any
other required parameters.

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5.4 Inspection Authority
5.4.1 The inspection authority for new constructions shall be the responsible
Projects Inspection Division (PID)/Inspection Department (ID).
5.4.2 For existing facilities, the proponent's Operations Inspection shall be the
inspection authority. The inspection authority shall be responsible to:
 Inspect equipment before and after cleaning.
 Get and keep the corrosion monitoring records from the contractor.
 Maintain history of equipment chemical cleaning and incorporate
relevant reports and data into permanent plant records.
 Monitor corrosion using weight loss coupons or equivalent.
5.5 Consulting Services Department (CSD)
5.5.1 CSD shall provide clarification, consultation, and technical support, as

needed, for the general requirement of this procedure.
5.5.2 CSD shall only review and approve new chemical cleaning methods not
specifically discussed in this standard prior to starting the chemical
cleaning activities.
5.5.3 CSD shall certify new cleaning contractors and recertify existing ones.
5.6 Research and Development Center (R&DC)
5.6.1 Test, evaluate and verify new chemical cleaning products, corrosion
inhibitors effectiveness, and perform chemical analysis, if required.
5.6.2 The tests shall be conducted at the recommended chemical dilution ratios
and control parameters in terms of concentration, temperature, pH, and
duration as follows:
1. Corrosion Test
 Test the chemical per NACE TM 0193 and NACE TM 0169 for
common materials of construction
2. Performance tests only for the cleaning products and corrosion
inhibitors:
 To show the effectiveness of their applications
 To determine the biodegradability of the products

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5.6.3 Recommend a third-party lab for testing cleaning chemicals if required.
5.6.4 Provide consultation advice on request.
5.7 Area and Regional Laboratories
5.7.1 Perform scale density, chemical analysis, compatibility of blended

chemicals and monitor and log chemical cleaning analyses during
cleaning activities, if needed.
5.7.2 Verify degree of cleanliness before and after passivation on cut boiler
tube samples.
5.8 Loss Prevention Department
5.8.1 Audit cleaning operations and permits.
5.8.2 Advise on field safety precautions on request.
5.9 Chemical Cleaning Contractor
The full list of contractor responsibilities are stated in the chemical cleaning
contract. Below are major responsibilities:
5.9.1 Submit procedures and documents per Appendix A.
5.9.2 Supply all chemicals, inhibitors, auxiliary pumping, and heating

equipment as required, and the necessary personnel for chemical
cleaning, including a qualified chemist for chemical analysis during the
chemical cleaning.
5.9.3 Clean the steam generation systems to meet or exceed the acceptance
criteria for effective cleaning as outlined in Section 14.
5.9.4 Conduct on-line monitoring and control corrosion rates.
5.9.5 Dispose of all waste water and chemical solutions as per SAEP-327,
SAES-A-103, and SAHWC.
5.9.6 Submit a final chemical cleaning report upon completion. The report
shall include, but is not limited to, implemented cleaning procedure(s),
cleaning log sheets, findings, cleaning parameters, and lessons learned.
6 Criteria for Cleaning
6.1 The following are steps to determine the need to conduct chemical cleaning for
existing steam generation systems:
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6.1.1 Based on cut out boiler tube samples, the following criteria shall be used
for existing boilers to determine when to schedule chemical cleaning
steam generation equipment rated from 400 – 900 psig (27.5 – 62 barg).
The tube section removal and scale density evaluation shall be as per
ASTM D3484-14.
Deposit Density Mandatory Action
Less than 250 g/m² No requirement for chemical cleaning

250 to 500 g/m² Chemical cleaning shall be performed within 1 year
500 to 1000 g/m² Chemical cleaning shall be performed within 3 months
Over 1000 g/m² Chemical cleaning shall be performed before placing
back in operation
6.1.2 The above recommendations do not consider the scale composition such
as its copper content, scale insulating properties, condition of the steam
generation equipment and hence are conservative. Operations
Engineering may recommend chemical cleaning sooner or later than the
time table given above, if information is available to support it.
6.1.3 Equipment rated 400 – 900 psig (27.5 – 62 barg) shall not exceed eight
(8) years of operation without conducting chemical cleaning.
6.2 For all new steam generating equipment, a thorough inspection shall be
conducted before-cleaning in order to determine the most appropriate cleaning
procedure even though the equipment was cleaned at the manufacturer’s facility.
6.2.1 For all new steam generating equipment, the solvent cleaning
procedure shall be based on the use of inhibited ammoniated citric acid.
The inhibited ammoniated citric acid cleaning procedure detailed in this
procedure is safe and cost-effective for the removal of mill scale.
6.2.2 The superheaters, reheaters, and economizers of new boilers shall be

cleaned separately. This is normally done using steam from another
source if necessary, by alternately raising the pressure in the boiler from
600 to 900 psig (41 – 62 barg) and rapidly releasing the pressure on a
white target until no visible contaminants emerge. For steam cleaning to
be effective a velocity of 15 to 30 m/s is required. If the cleaning of
these components cannot be achieved cost-effectively by mechanical
means, then they shall be chemically cleaned.
6.2.3 After cleaning, the boiler tubes, the superheater tubes, the reheater tubes,
and the economizer tubes shall be inspected visually. Remote video
boroscope inspection before cleaning and after cleaning will ensure the
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necessary degree of system cleanliness. Destructive tube sampling is not

required to determine cleaning effectiveness.
7 Preparations for Chemical Cleaning
7.1 Chemical Cleaning of Steam Generation Systems is accomplished by a

combination of the following steps but not necessarily in the sequence listed:
7.1.1 Mechanical cleaning involves the mechanical removal, using power

brushes, tube scrapers, or high pressure (8,000 psig / 550 barg) water, as
much oil and grease as possible from drums accessible tubes and header
before alkaline cleaning.
7.1.2 High Pressure Water Jetting uses targeted water jetting, and water
flushing to remove all loose scale and/or deposits. See SABP-A-051 for
more details.
7.1.3 Hot Alkaline Cleaning is used to remove oil, grease and for enhancing
the effectiveness of the acid cleaning stage.
7.1.4 Removal of Copper is achieved by dissolving copper as much as possible

before the solvent cleaning stage.
7.1.5 Solvent Cleaning is used to chemically remove mill scale, mineral

deposits from water, copper, and corrosion products.
7.1.6 Neutralization and passivation is needed to neutralize acids and to form a

strongly adherent protective oxide layer on the wetted surfaces.
7.1.7 Fire-side cleaning/neutralization is used to clean the external deposits to

improve performance and/or to neutralize the acidic deposits to mitigate
tubes’ external corrosion.
7.2 General Preparations
7.2.1 Remove all steam separators including cyclones, baffle plates, etc., and
screens from the steam drum. Remove angle iron covering and drum
blowdowns. Identify and make available all permanent piping and other
necessary steam generation equipment for cleaning.
7.2.2 Install all necessary temporary piping, sacrificial valves, pressure,

temperature, and level instruments. Do not use instruments, valves with
copper or copper alloys, or austenitic stainless steels.
7.2.3 Install blinds, and adequately sized temporary drain valves, and vents to
permit rapid dumping of solvents. Use temporary plugs or slip blinds to
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isolate superheater, reheater, economizer, instruments, etc., wherever

possible.
7.2.4 Store all chemicals needed for the procedure on-site prior to
commencing cleaning, including emergency neutralizing agents,
nitrogen, and wet layup chemicals.
7.2.5 Ensure that an adequate supply of steam generation equipment feed or

make up water or condensate is available at the required temperature.
Do not use raw water to flush or hose down the steam generation
equipment.
7.2.6 Ensure that instrument connections (except those temporarily installed)

are isolated and disconnected before solvent cleaning stage. Bypass low
level shutdown on the steam drum. Ensure bypass is removed after
chemical cleaning. Isolate all steam generation equipment instrument
leads during the acid cleaning. Do not use the regular water gauge
during acid cleaning. Use a temporary water gauge covering the
diameter of the steam drum and vented to the atmosphere.
7.2.7 Install fittings for liquid sampling, flow elements, temperature probes,
and pipe spools with on-line access fittings for corrosion monitoring
probes. Use two monitoring locations: in the solvent pump outlet line,
downstream of the flow reversal and mixing manifold; and in the solvent
outlet line leading to the recirculating pump inlet. Install corrosion
coupons in the steam and water drums.
7.2.8 Provide adequate lighting at all operating points.
7.2.9 Plan for the disposal of wastewater and spent chemical solutions per
SAEP-327, SAES-A-103, and SAHWC.
7.2.10 Perform checks on valve lineups as required for each major flush and
circulation path.
7.2.11 Notify the Regional Laboratories of intention to chemically clean a

steam generation equipment.
7.2.12 Remove level gauge and install a temporary gauge (if ammonium
bifluoride is to be added, use transparent Tygon tubing for level
measurement as glass will be etched by it) on the steam drum to cover
the maximum level on the steam drum upper manifold.
7.2.13 Remove existing safety relief valves from the steam drum. Fit a
temporary vent in the place of a displaced relief valve on the steam
drum. The vent size should be adequate to handle the evolved gas.
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Install blinds on other relief valve fittings. Provide 150 psig (10.3 barg)
relief protection through temporary or sacrificial relief piping during
steam generation equipment cleaning. Ensure that the temporary vent
has a block valve adjacent to the steam drum, and the vent pipe work
extends to the sewer.
7.2.14 Ensure required amount of 80 psig (5.5 barg) nitrogen supply is available
in the cleaning area. Provide adequate nitrogen supply to drain the steam
generation equipment at least three times.
7.2.15 Calculate the total cross sectional area of the steam generation equipment
tubes.
Commentary Note:
The cross sectional area of down-comer tubes during the solvent

cleaning is restricted by grooved plugs) and multiply it by the flow velocity
to determine the required volume flow rate of the circulating pumps.
Check and ensure that the flow design includes: flow reversal manifold
and valves, control valves to control circulation within specified limits (1 to
2 feet/minute).
7.2.16 Test steam generation equipment hydrostatically at 100 psig (6.9 barg) or
1.5 times the pump discharge pressure whichever is lower, after
installation of all temporary piping and connections, prior to chemical
cleaning.
7.2.17 Get a sufficient supply of grooved wooden plugs, blinds or other suitable
devices and use these to restrict preferential flow paths, to force
circulation uniformly through all the steam generation equipment tubes
during solvent cleaning, neutralization, and passivation.
7.2.18 Ensure that a heat exchanger is available to maintain the cleaning

solution temperature, within the limits specified under the respective
sections. A coil inside the chemical cleaning solutions mixing tank and a
supply of low pressure (< 60 psig / 4.0 barg) steam is adequate for this
purpose. Never fire the burners in order to heat up the cleaning solution
during the acid stage.
7.2.19 Ensure spare pumps are available in case of circulating pump failure, and
sufficient pumping capacity to drain the cleaning solution within fifteen
to thirty minutes in case of an emergency. Ensure sufficient holding tank
capacity is available for draining and neutralizing cleaning solutions if
necessary.
7.2.20 Ensure, using standard samples, that on-site chemical analytical procedures
and laboratory analytical procedures yield comparable (±20%) results.
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7.2.21 Ensure inhibitor to be used are compatible with the acid used. Test for
corrosion inhibitor effectiveness prior to injecting the acid into the steam
generation equipment. Refer to CSD/MED/Corrosion Engineering
Group for the approved list of corrosion inhibitors.
7.2.22 Measure the volume of the steam generation equipment by filling and
draining with condensate water by a flow meter installed in the drain,
and compare the volume readings to the steam generation equipment
data sheet. This volume shall be used to calculate the amount of
chemicals required for each stage. Moreover, this exact volume will be
used to calculate the amount of deposits that were removed from the
steam generation equipment tube internals.
7.2.23 Refer to SABP-A-051 for safety precautions. Refer to appropriate

HAZCOM for complete list of risks.
8 Cleaning Selection
8.1 General Criteria
8.1.1 Fouling composition, quantity, and distribution, will vary considerably

between one steam generation equipment and another, or even within the
same steam generation equipment at various time periods during its life.
It is therefore necessary in each case, to select a specific cleaning stage,
or series of cleaning stages, which will be most effective in achieving
thorough and safe cleaning, to the desired cleanliness stages.
8.1.2 Primarily select chemicals that shall be:
8.1.2.1 Safe to use
8.1.2.2 Compatible with the materials of construction of the equipment

and piping to be cleaned.
8.1.2.3 The fouling shall be soluble in the cleaning solution to achieve

the desired degree of cleaning.
8.1.3 With these criteria satisfied, make the final selection, with due reference
to other constraints including cost, disposal problems, and cleaning time
available. Responsibility for the final specification of the cleaning stage
is defined in Section 5.
8.1.4 Chemical cleaning will normally involve one or more of the following
steps: hot alkaline degreasing (see Section 9), removal of copper (see
Section 10), acid cleaning (see Section 11), followed by neutralization
and passivation stage (see Section 12). Laboratory evaluation of tube
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samples will determine the above sequence. High Pressure Water Jetting
could be utilized before or it may follow the cleaning operation to
remove loosened scale (see SABP-A-051). If high pressure water jetting
is used, it must be followed by flash rust removal and passivation per
Section 12.3. Remote fiber scope inspection recorded on a video tape,
before and after cleaning will provide visual evidence on cleaning
effectiveness.
8.2 Analysis of Fouling Material
8.2.1 General
Determine the composition of the scale or deposit and the suitability

solvents to remove these before any chemical cleaning. Take a sample
or samples carefully to be representative of the steam generation
equipment scale. Tube cutting (see ASTM D3484-14) is the most
satisfactory way to accomplish this requirement.
8.2.2 Loss on Ignition
This figure represents the weight percentage of the dry scale which can
be removed by heating the insoluble residue to 600°F (315°C) in a
laboratory furnace. The result is indicative of the organic content of the
scale in the forms of oil, grease, degraded polymers, and carbon. If the
figure is high (greater than 10.0%) further identification of the organic
content can be determined by refluxing the sample with a suitable
organic solvent which will indicate the relative proportions of (i) oil and
grease, and (ii) carbon. These proportions will assist in the selection of a
suitable hot alkaline cleaning stage.
8.2.3 Solubility in Dilute HCl
This figure represents the weight percent of the dry scale which will
dissolve in boiling 7.5% inhibited hydrochloric acid. By comparing this
figure with others from different steam generation equipment, some
indication of the degree of difficulty which the scale removal will
present can be obtained.
8.2.4 Insoluble Residue
This figure represents the insoluble complexes of other cations and, if the
quantity is significant (i.e., greater than 2.0%) further cleaning stages
with more concentrated hydrochloric acid may be required to render the
material soluble.

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8.2.5 Silica
The percentage of SiO2 is determined by evaporating the silica as SiF4 by

the addition of hydrofluoric acid (after the loss on ignition test) to the
residue from 9.2.2 above.
8.2.6 Metals
The metal ions present in the scale, are analyzed for iron (Fe), copper
(Cu), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn)
and sodium (Na). These results are useful to determine the need for
pre-treatment for copper removal, and the number of acid cleaning stages
that are likely to remove all the scale from the system.
8.2.7 Anions
Phosphate, sulfate, carbonate, and sulfide are also determined in the

scale. This information is useful to determine the need for sulfate
conversion treatment or the need to suppress the evolution of H2S during
acid cleaning.
8.2.8 X-Ray Diffraction
With this technique, the crystalline identification of the scale

components is made. This is useful to determine the actual composition
and the insulating characteristics of the scale.
8.3 Hot Alkaline Cleaning Selection
8.3.1 If the solubility of organic deposits (i.e., oil, grease, carbon, or other
organic compounds) is >70% in the proposed acid cleaning solvent, then a
separate hot alkaline stage is not required; however, a surfactant shall be
added. Otherwise, a separate hot alkaline cleaning stage shall be used.
8.3.2 Soda ash (Na2CO3) degreasing is a mild treatment used where

contamination is primarily light oil and grease, with < 5% organic
contamination (see Section 9.2).
8.3.3 Caustic degreasing (NaOH) is the cleaning stage used for all new steam
generation equipment, and where mill scale is present, or organic
contamination is 5% to 25% (see Section 9.3).
8.3.4 Permanganate (KMnO4) degreasing is used where organic contamination

is heavy (> 25%) or carbonized (see Section 9.4).
8.3.5 A sulfate conversion treatment or chelating agents shall be used when

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the calcium sulfate amount is > 10.0% by weight (see Section 9.5).
8.3.6 If copper concentration in the scale deposit is > 10.0%, a separate

cleaning stage shall be used to dissolve copper before acid cleaning
(see Section 10).
8.4 Acid Cleaning Selection
8.4.1 Hydrochloric Acid
Inhibited hydrochloric acid is the most widely used cleaning agent since
it produces good solubility with a wide variety of scales, is economic,
and easy to handle. It exhibits good corrosion characteristics when
correctly inhibited and the process is controlled within the accepted
limits. The process is flexible and can be modified to complex copper by
the addition of thiourea, enhance silica removal by the addition of
ammonium bifluoride, or to remove organics by the addition of
surfactants. It is not compatible with stainless steels.
8.4.2 Citric Acid
Citric acid is compatible with austenitic stainless steels, requiring low

chloride cleaning agents, and presents good handling, safety, and
corrosion characteristics, in comparison to hydrochloric acid. It is less
aggressive in its attack of some iron oxide scales and therefore usually
requires higher temperatures or longer contact times. It has a very
limited effect on calcium salts present in steam generation equipment
scales. In general, it is more expensive than hydrochloric acid treatment.
The normal reasons for its selection are:
8.4.2.1 Presence of austenitic stainless steel materials of construction.
8.4.2.2 Extremely effective copper removal from high copper content

scales.
8.4.2.3 Iron removal, copper removal, neutralization, and passivation

can be carried out using a single solution, thereby considerably
reducing cleaning time by eliminating the need to drain, flush,
and refill the steam generation equipment between stages.
8.4.3 Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid (EDTA)
EDTA salts are generally expensive in comparison with citric and

hydrochloric acid. Higher temperatures are required in order to achieve
satisfactory cleaning. Corrosion rates are low under properly controlled
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conditions, and iron oxide removal, copper removal, neutralization and

passivation, can be carried out sequentially with the single solution.
Since circulation is achieved by normal steam generation equipment
operation and air blowing, the provision of temporary circulating pumps,
connections, and pipe work can be largely eliminated.
8.4.4 Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid is an effective solvent for iron oxides, iron sulfides and is
generally lower in cost than hydrochloric acid. It is also compatible with
austenitic stainless steels. However, it is considerably more dangerous to
handle. In its concentrated form, it is aggressive to organic material, and
contact with the skin or eyes is extremely dangerous. Its use is not
recommended where scales contain significant calcium, due to the
formation of insoluble calcium sulfate.
8.4.5 Sulfamic Acid
Sulfamic acid has the advantage of being a crystalline solid which is

simple to store, handle, and mix. It is frequently sold with inhibitor and a
color indicator of effective acid strength already added. It is compatible
with stainless steels and is a moderately aggressive solvent for iron oxide
and calcium carbonate. Due to its relatively high cost, it is mainly used on
low volume equipment.
8.5 High Pressure Water Jetting (HPWJ)
HPWJ is very effective to remove loosened deposits. The use of HPWJ is

recommended before the alkaline cleaning stage and after acid cleaning and
neutralization. After the HPWJ always remove flash rust and passivate the steam
generation equipment before start up per Section 12.3. See SABP-A-051 for
details.
8.6 Neutralization and Passivation
Following acid cleaning of a steam generation equipment, the equipment shall

be neutralized. This is either achieved by neutralization alone, usually with
0.5% sodium carbonate, or during the passivation stage where pH values of 7 or
greater are required by the process.
The selection of passivation treatment is sometimes governed by the chemical

cleaning agents’ selection. Where citric acid or EDTA processes have been
used, these are normally extended to effect neutralization and passivation by a
suitable pH adjustment and the addition of an oxidizing agent. To accomplish
this, the citric acid, ammonia and nitrite can be used or carbonate/nitrite can be
used. If ambient temperature is all that can be achieved, a nitrite/phosphate
Page 17 of 50
stage will give some protection to the metal surfaces. If internal surfaces have
been allowed to rust following acid cleaning, this rusting is removed by citric
acid, and ammonia and sodium nitrite, are added later to achieve a high degree
of passivation (see Section 12).
9 Hot Alkaline Cleaning
9.1 General Preparation

1. Ensure all boiler instrument leads are isolated for protection, unless required
for operation. Install a temporary level gauge as degreasing solutions may
etch glass.
2. Ensure that the boiler is ready for firing, if required by the process.
Under special conditions, external heating can be used in lieu of firing.
3. Carefully inspect all pressure parts for obstructions. Check chemical feed
lines, drains, and vents to be certain that they are clear.
4. The normal boiler trip interlock may have to be bypassed for boil out as
instruments will be disconnected. Ensure that the boiler auxiliaries and the
special cleaning equipment are in good operating condition.
5. Ensure that the chemical cleaning contractor is on-site with mixing tanks,
chemicals, and pumping equipment.
6. Service test temporary piping and chemical lines to 90 psig (6.2 barg).
7. Commercial grade quality for all chemicals in this paragraph will be
adequate except where austenitic materials are present in the system to be
cleaned. In this case the total chlorides of all the chemicals in the mixture
must not yield a final solution containing greater than 50 mg/l as chloride.
9.2 Alkaline Degreasing with Soda Ash
9.2.1 Control Parameters

Sodium carbonate 0.5 to 1.0% by weight
Sodium metasilicate 0.5 to 1.0% by weight
Trisodium phosphate 0.5 to 1.0% by weight
Surfactant 0.1 to 0.2% by volume
Anti-foam (if required) 0.05 to 0.1% by volume
Temperature upper limit 311°F (155°C)
Circulation Normal boiler operational circulation
Residence time 18 to 24 hours (see procedures)
Max. corrosion rates < 2 mpy

Page 18 of 50
9.2.2 Testing
Determine every hour the phosphate and M-alkalinity values. If the

M-alkalinity and phosphate concentrations have dropped to half the
original values, additional boil out chemicals are added to restore the
original concentration.
9.2.3 Safety Hazards
The solution can react violently with acids. Heating the solution will
expand its volume. Be prepared to open drain valves to maintain desired
levels.
9.2.4 Procedure
1. Verify volume of boiler to appropriate level by filling and draining.
Install a flow meter in the drain to measure the volume of the boiler.
2. Dissolve the chemicals externally and blend fill through the chemical
feed connection. Fill the boiler to a sufficiently high level to ensure
adequate cleaning solvent contact with the contaminated metal
surfaces. Do not raise the solvent levels to the superheater inlets,
unless the superheater is isolated with a blind.
3. Confirm the drum level in the level gauge and prepare for firing
after the boil out solution has been added. Operate the temporary
vent, and drain valves as required.
4. Water fill (wedge) superheaters and feed slowly with condensate
through a valve on its outlet header. Leave open superheater vent
valves and a small amount of steam should escape to assure that the
superheater is water cooled during boil out. The drum water level will
rise during this period and blowdown should be restricted to the
amount necessary to maintain the desired water level.
5. Fire the boiler to bring the pressure up to 60 psig (4.1 barg).
Hold the pressure between 30 - 60 psig (2.0 – 4.1 barg) for four
hours, observe the temperature of lower headers for an indication of
circulation.
6. After four hours, shut down. Allow the boiler pressure to decrease.
After the pressure has dropped noticeably, blowdown the boiler
using all bottom blowdown valves, operating them in sequence.
Blow down approximately 50 mm on the gauge glass. Restore the
alkaline boil out solution level to normal with condensate after the
blowdown.

Page 19 of 50
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 three times.

8. When the drum pressure drops to 25 psig (1.7 barg), open wide the
drum vents. When the steam drum metal temperature falls below
200°F (93°C), drain the boiler into a holding tank.
9. Back flush superheater with condensate for 5 minutes, unless the
superheater is isolated with a blind.
10. Following complete draining of alkaline solution, fill the boiler to
the level given in step 3 with condensate heated to 170°F (77°C) for
a rinse. Drain the boiler and repeat rinse. If removal of copper
>10.0% is required proceed directly to Section 10 of this procedure.
11. Remove manhole covers and hose down with clean condensate or
process water, the drums and all tubes containing sludge, grease, etc.
12. The boiler will be inspected by Operations and Engineering and
Project Management. If the inspection indicates unsatisfactory
cleaning of oil and grease, repeat the procedure.
13. Clean separately all steam separators and internals removed before
installation.
9.2.5 If no further cleaning is required, then:

1. Install the steam separators and other internals.
2. Reconnect all instrument lines.
3. Replace all hand and manhole covers, using new gaskets.
4. Remove temporary piping and instruments.
5. Restore control circuits by removing temporary jumpers (if applicable).
6. Fill the boiler and place in service.
Commentary Note:
For relatively light oil contamination without heavily carbonized oil the
process may be carried out at 195°F (90°C ± 5°C) without firing the
boiler. In such cases, maintain circulation at 1,200 liters/minute to
4,500 liters/minute, using chemical cleaning pumps.
9.3 Caustic Degreasing
Sodium hydroxide 1.0 to 2.0% by weight

Trisodium phosphate 0.5 to 1.0% by weight

Page 20 of 50

Anti-foam (if required) 0.05 to 0.1% by volume
Circulation limit Normal boiler operational circulation
Residence time 18 to 24 hours (see procedures)
9.3.2 Testing
Determine every hour the phosphate and M-alkalinity values. If the

M-alkalinity and phosphate concentrations have dropped to half the
original values, additional boil out chemicals are added to restore the
original concentration.
Sodium hydroxide reacts exothermically with water and must never be

added to hot water. All dilution of sodium hydroxide, either liquid or
solid, should be carried out slowly with constant stirring. Heating the
boil out solution will expand its volume. Be prepared to open drain
valves to maintain desired levels.
9.3.4 Precautions
Materials of construction should be reviewed prior to treatment for

caustic embrittlement susceptibility.
9.3.5 Procedure
The procedure is same as in Section 9.2 alkaline degreasing with soda

ash.
9.4 Permanganate Degreasing
Sodium hydroxide 1.0 to 2.0% by weight

Potassium permanganate 1.0 to 3.0% by weight
Circulation rate 1,200 liters/minute to 4,500 liters/minute
Residence time 6 to 12 hours

Page 21 of 50
9.4.2 Testing
Take samples at one hour intervals. Monitor the M-alkalinity, the

permanganate concentration, and the temperature. If the permanganate
strength drops below 1.0% do not add permanganate to increase its
concentration. Drain the boiler into a holding tank, add fresh degreasing
solution, and continue circulation.
Handle potassium permanganate with care as it is a strong oxidizing

agent. Add slowly with constant stirring to dilute sodium hydroxide in
water.
9.4.4 Precautions
Do not use any antifoam or surfactant as they will react with

permanganate and deplete its strength. This treatment frequently results in
the deposition of manganese dioxide. If this treatment is to be followed by
hydrochloric acid stage, chlorine may well be liberated with a consequent
increase in corrosion rates and safety hazards (see Section 11.1).
9.4.5 Procedure
Install a flow meter in the drain line to measure the volume of the
boiler.
2. Dissolve the chemicals externally and blend through the chemical
feed connection. Blend fill the boiler to a sufficiently high level to
ensure adequate cleaning solvent contact with contaminated metal
surfaces.
3. Do not raise solvent level to the superheater inlets, unless the
4. Confirm the drum level in the level gauge and prepare for firing after
the boil out solution has been added. Bypass the low-low (LL) level
switch and operate drain and vent valves to maintain proper level.
superheater is water cooled during boil out. The drum water level
will rise during this period and blowdown should be restricted to the

Page 22 of 50
6. Fire the boiler to bring to desired temperature range. Alternatively,

raise temperature by external heating. Circulate, using chemical
cleaning pumps. Monitor permanganate concentration until
concentration stabilizes.
7. Drain the boiler solution into a holding tank.
9. Following complete draining of alkaline solution, fill the boiler to the
level given in step 3 with condensate heated to 170°F (77°C) to rinse.
10. Drain the boiler and repeat rinse. If removal of copper >10% is
required proceed directly to Section 10 of this SAEP.
11. Remove manhole covers and hose down with clean condensate or
process water, the drums and all tubes containing sludge, grease, etc.
12. The boiler will be inspected by Operations and Engineering and
Project Management. If the inspection indicates unsatisfactory
cleaning of oil and grease, repeat the boil out procedure.
9.4.6 If no further cleaning is required then:

1. Install the steam separators and other internals.
2. Reconnect all instrument lines.
3. Replace all hand and manhole covers, using new gaskets.
4. Remove temporary piping and instruments.
5. Restore control circuits by removing temporary jumpers
(if applicable).
6. Fill the boiler and place in service.
9.5 Sulfate Conversion Treatment


Page 23 of 50
9.5.2 Testing
Take samples at one hour intervals and monitor sodium carbonate

concentration.
Sodium carbonate reacts violently with acids.
9.5.4 Procedure
2. Dissolve the chemicals externally and blend through the chemical
feed connection. Blend fill the boiler to a sufficiently high level to
ensure adequate cleaning solvent contact with contaminated metal
surfaces.
3. Do not raise solvent level to the superheater inlets, unless the
4. Confirm the drum level in the level gauge and prepare for firing
after the boil out solution has been added. Bypass the low-low (LL)
level switch, and operate temporary drain and vent valves to
maintain proper level.
superheater is water cooled during boil out. The drum water level
will rise during this period and blowdown should be restricted to the
6. Fire pilot burners to bring the water to desired temperature range.
Alternatively, raise temperature by external heating. Circulate, using
chemical cleaning pumps. Monitor the carbonate concentration.
7. Drain the boiler solution into a holding tank.
9. Following complete draining of alkaline solution, fill the boiler to
the level given in step 3 with condensate heated to 170°F (77°C) to
rinse. Drain the boiler and repeat the rinse.
10. Proceed with solvent cleaning.

Page 24 of 50
10 Removal of Copper
If the copper concentration in the scale deposit is greater than 10.0%, a separate treatment
is necessary to dissolve copper as much as possible before solvent cleaning. Make an
estimate of copper to be removed from the scale analysis and use the following alkaline
treatment, to reduce the copper level below 10.0%. Other alkaline treatments with
ammonium carbonate, ammonium bromate, and sodium nitrite are also acceptable for the
removal of copper >10.0%, after review by CSD/MED/Corrosion Engineering Group and
R&DC. Repeated copper removal and solvent cleaning is required if copper is in layers
between other deposits. Any copper remaining in the boiler is removed during the solvent
cleaning and passivation procedures described in Section 11 and Section 12.3.
10.1 Copper Removal with Ammonium Bicarbonate, Air or Oxygen
Ammonium bicarbonate 1.6 kg/kg of copper to be removed

2.4 liter/kg of copper to removed,
Aqua ammonia
and adjust pH to 9.5
Air or Oxygen 1.3 to 1.5 cubic meters per minute
Temperature 122 – 140°F (50 – 60°C)
10.1.2 Testing
Monitor during circulation the solution for copper concentration, pH,

and temperature. Take samples at 30 minute intervals, or more
frequently. Perform analyses as rapidly as possible on-site.
10.1.3 Procedure
1. Fill the boiler with hot condensate, to the top of the steam drum.
2. Drain back appropriate amount of water to waste to accommodate
aqua ammonia, premixed ammonium bicarbonate solution and air
injection. Verify drain back volume by turbine flow meter on the
waste line.
3. Inject aqua ammonia into the mud drum through the chemical feed
nozzle attached to the temporary mud drum nozzle connections.
Inject condensate to flush the chemical into the boiler.
4. Inject premixed solution containing ammonium bicarbonate into
the boiler through the chemical feed nozzle attached to the
temporary mud drum nozzle connections.
Page 25 of 50
5. Ensure that the vents on top of the steam drum are cracked open
before air or oxygen injection begins to allow air or oxygen to exit
the boiler. Begin air or oxygen injection at a minimum flow rate
of 1.5 standard cubic meters/minute through both the side wall
headers, and into both ends of the mud drum. Alternatively, shut
in each end of the boiler to ensure even coverage/contact of air or
oxygen to both the front, and the back of the system every hour.
6. Begin analysis procedure for copper one hour after the
introduction of air or oxygen into the system. Test for copper
every hour thereafter, continue to alternate air or oxygen flow
between the front, and the back of the lower headers every hour.
Ensure that 1.5 standard cubic meters/minute air flow rate is
maintained. When the copper concentration levels out, as
indicated by analytical methods, drain the boiler to waste under
30 – 40 psig (2.1 – 2.8 barg) air pressure to allow for a quick drain
of the system, and to aid in the removal of any solids present in
the mud drum.
7. While maintaining a nitrogen cap in the boiler, flush the system
with the cold fill make up water until the outlet water stream is at
or near the pH of the make-up water.
8. Open the mud and steam drum man ways, hose down the drums
and all tubes and inspect.
11 Acid Cleaning
Following removal of organic material, and excess copper by hot alkaline treatment,
solvent cleaning is carried out to remove iron oxides, water borne scales, remaining
copper, and silica. The solvents are selected as noted in Section 8.3. Copper in the
scale below 10%, is easily removed by complexing it with thiourea during HCl acid
cleaning or by other solvents as described in this paragraph.
Although the solvent concentrations listed encompass most cleaning operations, there
may be instances where higher acid, inhibitor and ammonium bifluoride concentrations
may be beneficial. To assist in removal of moderate amount of copper (<10%), thiourea
can be used up to 1.0% concentration without excessive corrosion if a proper inhibitor
is used. Extended contact times may be required than those specified for removing
certain heavy and hard to remove deposits.
Commercial grade quality for all chemicals in this paragraph is adequate. The solvent
solution must not contain greater than 100 mg/L of iron in the concentrated form.
Where austenitic materials are present in the system to be cleaned the total chlorides of

Page 26 of 50
all the chemicals in the mixture must not yield a final solution containing greater than
50 mg/L as chloride.
Perform a hydrostatic pressure test on the system, including all temporary piping, hoses,
fitting etc. at 1.5 times the pump discharge pressure before solvent addition.
11.1 Hydrochloric Acid
Where higher concentration of copper >10% is present, a separate copper

removal treatment per Section 10 above, is required prior to using this
procedure. More than one solvent cleaning cycle may be required to remove all
the iron.
Hydrochloric acid 3.5 to 7.5% by weight

0.2 to 0.3 % by volume
Inhibitor
or as recommended by manufacturer
Ammonium bifluoride 0.0 to 1.0% by weight
0.0 to 1.5% by weight
Thiourea
(@ 5 kg/kg of Copper to be removed)
Oxalic acid (see Note) 1.0% by weight
Temperature limit 140 – 158°F (60 – 70°C)
Max. corrosion rates <600 mpy
Total dissolved Iron 10,000 mg/L max.
11.1.2 Testing
Before adding the acid to the boiler verify its corrosion rate at 180°F
(82°C) by LPR for inhibitor effectiveness. During circulation monitor
the solution for acid, total iron and copper concentrations, corrosion
rate, temperature and inhibitor effectiveness. Take samples at
30 minute intervals, or more frequently. Perform analyses as rapidly as
possible and preferably on-site.
Hydrochloric acid is a strong mineral acid and must be handled with

suitable precautions, particularly in the concentrated state. Oxalic acid
is highly toxic.
Page 27 of 50
11.1.4 Precautions
Review materials of construction to ensure that these are compatible

with high chloride solutions. Austenitic stainless steels are prone to
stress corrosion cracking in such environments and must not be present
in systems to be cleaned by hydrochloric acid. Corrosion rates are
controlled by the inhibitor which is, in turn, controlled by a number of
variables. These include temperature, circulation velocity, residence
time, acid concentration, inhibitor concentration, and concentration of
dissolved fouling. Great care must be taken to control these variables
within their limits.
11.1.5 Procedure
1. Replace all permanent valves which will come in contact with
acid, with “sacrificial” valves. These include all blowdown and
chemical feed valves. Others, such as boiler feed, can be
protected by blinds. If “sacrificial” valves are not available, keep
new valves on hand for replacing all valves contacted by acid
during the cleaning procedure.
2. Fill the boiler with condensate to the top of the steam drum
eliminating all air in the system. If the condensate is sufficiently
hot, circulate by chemical cleaning pumps to achieve uniform
metal temperatures throughout the boiler, and adjust to 140 –
158°F (60 – 70°C). If the condensate is not at a high enough
temperature, fire the boiler, or use an external heat exchanger, or
inject steam, to obtain temperature and adjust by circulation.
Approach metal temperatures from below because of the uneven
rate of cooling between the thin walled tubes and thick wall drums
and headers. All furnace openings and dampers must be closed to
retain the heat.
3. Bubble nitrogen at 1 m³/hr using a PVC pipe into the acid tanks
for at least 2 hours. This is to strip the oxygen, and mix
thoroughly the acid and inhibitor in the tank.
4. Using nitrogen drain back sufficient volume to accommodate acid
and inhibitor. Check inhibitor effectiveness in the acid on-site.
As quickly as possible, blend fill the boiler with inhibited acid
solution. Blend a slightly higher concentration during the
beginning of the fill than at the end because the initial acid
entering the boiler is consumed to some degree during the fill.
Ammonium bifluoride may be added in concentrations up to 1.0%
by weight to assist in the removal of silica. In the absence of

Page 28 of 50
silica, the ammonium bifluoride concentration shall not exceed

0.25% by weight when it is added to assist in the removal of iron.
6. Circulate solution using chemical cleaning pumps. Reverse flow
direction every hour using flow reversal manifold. Continue
circulation to ensure that the various sections of the boiler are
circulated in turn, e.g., side walls, downcomers, etc., using valves
on lower header and drum connections. Where small amount,
(<10%), of copper is present in the scale, the addition of up to
1.0% thiourea is made to remove copper. Take samples from the
various locations and monitor temperature, acid strength, iron and
copper concentration, and inhibitor effectiveness. During
circulation, temperatures will gradually decay from 158°F (70°C).
This is acceptable to 140°F (60°C). If it becomes necessary to
raise the temperature, use steam coils, or other means, in the
temporary circulating tank. Do not fire or inject steam into the
boiler. If the acid strength falls below 3.0%, or if the total iron
exceeds 10,000 mg/L, or if the measured corrosion rates exceed
600 mpy for a period of 15 minutes and action by the cleaning
crew fails to reduce the corrosion rate below this level, drain the
boiler immediately into a holding tank under nitrogen pressure of
10 – 50 psig (0.7 – 3.5 barg) gauge and go to step 8.
7. Continue circulation, taking test samples every 30 minutes or
more frequently. Continue cleaning until the acid solution and
total iron concentration approach equilibrium. Normally, this will
be accomplished in six to eight hours.
8. Check for acid leaks in the circulation system, and if the leaks
cannot be contained drain as in step 9.
9. Drain the acid into a holding tank under a positive nitrogen
pressure of 10 – 50 psig (0.7 – 3.5 barg). Drain in as short a time
as possible, using the maximum number of drain valves consistent
with maintaining a positive nitrogen pressure. Introduce nitrogen
into the boiler through the drum vent line. Adequately size the
pressure regulator to introduce nitrogen at a volumetric rate
capable of displacing all of the acid solution in the boiler within a
period of one hour.

Page 29 of 50
11. Fill the boiler with hot condensate mixed with 50 to 100 kg of soda
ash to a level slightly higher than the acid level (not out of sight in
the level gauge). Drain the boiler under nitrogen as before and refill
with condensate, for a second rinse. Drain the second rinse under a
positive nitrogen pressure. Soda ash may have to be added to the
solution drained directly into the sewer, to ensure that its pH is
above 7. When no repeat solvent cleaning is required (see step 12
below) add about 0.1% by weight of citric acid to the second rinse
to assure more thorough iron removal.
12. If the acid is drained because of any one of the three reasons cited
in step 5 above, i.e., iron level >10,000 mg/L or acid strength <3%
or corrosion rate >600 mpy for 15 minutes, open the mud drum
and remove sludge and solids, water flush to clear drains and
repeat steps 1 to 9 above.
Commentary Note:
Where a permanganate degreasing is used, the residual scale will

probably be contaminated with manganese dioxide. This will liberate
chlorine in contact with hydrochloric acid and 1.0% of oxalic acid must
be added to the hydrochloric acid to prevent this. The liberation of
chlorine gas in the low pH HCl environment will result in accelerated
corrosion in the form of severe pitting attack.
11.2 Citric Acid
Where higher concentration of copper (>10%) is present, a separate copper

removal treatment per Section 10 above, is required prior to using this procedure.
More than one solvent cleaning cycle may be required to remove all the iron.
Iron Removal Phase

Citric acid 2.5 to 5% by weight
Inhibitor 0.2 to 0.3 % by volume or as
recommended by manufacturer
Ammonia To pH 3.5 to 4.0
Copper Removal and Passivation Phase
Ammonia To pH 9.5
Ammonium bicarbonate 1.0 % by weight
Sodium nitrite 0.5% by weight
Temperature Limit:
Iron removal phase 167 – 195°F (75 – 90°C)
Copper removal and 113 – 122°F (45 – 50°C)
passivation phase
Circulation Rate 1,200 liters/minute to 4,500 liters/minute

Page 30 of 50
Residence Time
Iron removal phase 4 to 8 hours
Copper removal and 4 to 8 hours
passivation phase
Circulation Rate 1,200 liters/minute to 4,500 liters/minute
Max. Corrosion Rates <600 mpy
11.2.2 Testing
Take samples at 30 minutes intervals or more frequently.
Iron removal: Monitor the corrosion rate, temperature, iron

concentration, free citric acid concentration, and pH.
Copper removal: Monitor the temperature, copper concentration, and

pH.
Ammonia is a strong respiratory irritant in low concentrations and

toxic at higher concentrations. Explosive limits are 16% to 24% in air.
Sodium nitrite is a strong oxidizing agent.
11.2.4 Precautions
Corrosion rates are controlled by the inhibitor which is, in turn,

controlled by a number of variables. These include temperature,
circulation velocity, residence time, acid concentration, and
concentration of dissolved fouling. Great care must be taken to control
these variables within their limits.
11.2.5 Procedure
Iron Removal Phase


Page 31 of 50
metal temperatures throughout the boiler, and adjust to 195°F

(90°C). If the condensate is not at a high enough temperature, fire
pilot burners or use an external heat exchanger or inject steam to
obtain temperature and adjust by circulation. It is necessary to
approach metal temperatures from below because of the
non-uniform rate of cooling between the thin walled tubes and
thick wall drums and headers. All furnace openings and dampers
must be closed to retain the heat.
and inhibitor addition. Check inhibitor effectiveness in the acid
on-site. As quickly as possible, blend fill the boiler with inhibited
citric acid with sufficient ammonia to adjust pH to 3.5 to 4.0.
Blend a slightly higher concentration during the beginning of the
fill than at the end because the initial acid entering the boiler is
consumed to some degree during the fill.
on lower header and drum connections. Take samples from the
various locations and monitor temperature, free citric acid
strength, iron concentration, inhibitor effectiveness, and pH.
If the free citric acid strength falls below 1.0% add citric acid
and ammonia to maintain 1.0% level. During circulation,
temperatures will gradually decay from the original levels.
The temperature drop to 167°F (75°C) is acceptable at the
completion of this phase. However, if it becomes necessary to
raise the temperature, use steam coils, or other means, in the
temporary circulating tank. Do not fire or inject steam into the
boiler.
more frequently, and until the acid solution and total iron
concentration approach equilibrium. Normally, this will be
accomplished in six hours. Check for acid leaks in the circulation
system. If the leaks cannot be contained, or if the total iron
exceeds 10,000 mg/L, or if the measured corrosion rates exceed
600 mpy for a period of 15 minutes and action by the cleaning
crew fails to reduce the corrosion rate below this level, drain the
boiler immediately into a holding tank under nitrogen pressure of
Page 32 of 50
10 – 50 psig (0.7 – 3.5 barg ), rinse the boiler with condensate,

open the mud drum and remove sludge and solids, water flush to
clear drains and repeat steps 1 to 6 above.

7. Ensure that the free citric acid concentration is 1.0%. If not, add
further citric acid to achieve this level. Add ammonium
bicarbonate and ammonia to adjust pH to 9.5.
8. Lower the temperature if necessary by turning on the fan to 122°F
(50°C) and add 0.5% sodium nitrite. Continue circulation for
4 hours minimum, until copper concentration stabilizes.
9. Drain the solution into a holding tank under air pressure of
10 – 50 psig (0.7 – 3.5 barg). Drain in as short a time as possible,
using the maximum number of drain valves. Introduce air into the
boiler through the drum vent line. Adequately size the pressure
regulator to introduce air at a volumetric rate capable of displacing
all of the solvent in the boiler within a period of one hour.
11. Fill the boiler with hot condensate to a level slightly higher than
the acid level (not out of sight in the temporary level gauge).
Drain the boiler under air as before and refill with condensate,
for a second rinse. At this point the boiler is both neutralized and
passivated.
11.3 Ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA)

Iron Removal Phase

EDTA 3 to 10.0% by weight
0.2 to 0.3% by volume or as
Inhibitor
recommended by manufacturer
Ammonia Add enough to get pH 9.2
Sodium Nitrite 0.5% by weight
Temperature Limit:
Page 33 of 50
Iron removal phase 250 – 300°F (121 – 149°C)

Copper removal
and passivation phase 140 – 160°F (60 – 71°C)
Circulation Limit Natural circulation
Residence Time 12 to 18 hours
Max. Corrosion Rates < 200 mpy
11.3.2 Testing
1. Before adding the acid to the boiler verify its corrosion rate
at 300°F (149°C) by LPR for inhibitor for effectiveness.
Take samples every 30 minutes or more frequently.
Iron Removal Phase
2. Monitor pH, EDTA and iron concentration, corrosion rate, and
temperature.
3. Monitor pH, EDTA and copper concentration and temperature.
11.3.3 Precautions
Sodium Nitrite must be present for copper removal / passivation.
11.3.4 Procedure
EDTA, with “sacrificial” valves. These include all blowdown and
new valves on hand for replacing all valves contacted by EDTA
2. Iron removal phase: Fire boiler to 300°F (149°C), inject inhibitor
and circulate for 1 to 2 hours to uniformly coat the metal surface
with inhibitor. Inject concentrated solution of EDTA, to provide a
10.0% solution in the boiler. Stop firing when the temperature
stabilizes.
3. Allow the temperature to decay to 250°F (121°C). Monitor iron
and EDTA concentrations and pH. Maintain a pH of 9 to 9.5.
If the free EDTA concentration drops below 1.0% inject more
EDTA to restore the concentration to 3.0%.
4. Fire boiler again to reach 300°F (149°C) and repeat step 3 until iron

Page 34 of 50
concentration stabilizes. This may require 12 to 18 hours. If the

total iron exceeds 10,000 mg/L, or if the measured corrosion rates
exceed 600 mpy for a period of 15 minutes and action by the
cleaning crew fails to reduce the corrosion rate below this level,
drain the boiler immediately into a holding tank under nitrogen
pressure of 10 – 50 psig (0.7 – 3.5 barg), rinse the boiler with
condensate, open the mud drum and remove sludge and solids,
water flush to clear drains and repeat steps 1 to 4 above.
5. Copper removal, neutralization, and passivation: Cool to 160°F
(71°C). Add sodium nitrite. Monitor the copper and EDTA
concentrations. Maintain at least 1.0% free EDTA concentration.
6. Continue until copper concentration stabilizes.
7. Drain the solution with air pressure into a holding tank and back
flush superheater, unless the superheater is isolated with a blind.
At this point the boiler is neutralized and passivated.
8. Open boiler and inspect.
11.4 Sulfuric Acid

Sulfuric acid 4.0 to 8.0% by weight

Inhibitor 0.2 to 0.3 % by volume
11.4.2 Testing
Before adding the acid to the boiler verify its corrosion rate at 180°F
(82°C) by LPR for inhibitor effectiveness. During circulation monitor
the solution for acid, total iron concentration, corrosion rate,
Page 35 of 50
temperature, and inhibitor effectiveness. Take samples at 30 minute

intervals, or more frequently. Perform analyses as rapidly as possible
and preferably on-site.
Sulfuric acid is a strong mineral acid, and must be handled with care,
particularly in the concentrated form. Considerable heat is evolved
during dilution, and all mixing must be carried out with extreme caution.
11.4.4 Precautions

11.4.5 Procedure
hot, circulate by chemical cleaning pumps to achieve a uniform
(70°C).
If the condensate is not at a high enough temperature, fire the pilot

burners, or use an external heat exchanger, or inject steam, to obtain
temperature and adjust by circulation. Approach metal
temperatures from below because of the non-uniform rate of
cooling between the thin walled tubes and thick wall drums and
headers. Close all furnace openings and dampers to retain the heat.
3. Bubble nitrogen at 1 m³/hr using a PVC pipe into the acid in the
tanker for at least 2 hours. This is to strip the oxygen and mix
thoroughly the inhibitor in the acid.
Page 36 of 50
on-site. Blend-fill the boiler with inhibited acid solution as

quickly as possible. It is good practice to blend a slightly higher
concentration during the beginning of the fill than at the end
because the initial acid entering the boiler is consumed to some
degree during the fill.
6. Circulate solution using chemical cleaning pumps. Reverse the
flow direction every hour using flow reversal manifold. Continue
on lower header and drum connections. Take samples from the
various locations and monitor temperature, acid strength, iron
concentration, and inhibitor effectiveness. During circulation,
temperatures will gradually decay from the original figure of
approximately 158°F (70°C). This is acceptable to 140°F (60°C).
If it becomes necessary to raise the temperature, use steam coils, or
other means, in the temporary circulating tank. Do not fire or inject
steam into the boiler. If the acid strength falls below 3.0%, or if the
total iron exceeds 10,000 mg/L, or if the measured corrosion rates
exceed 600 mpy for a period of 15 minutes and action by the
cleaning crew fails to reduce the corrosion rate below this level,
drain the boiler immediately into a holding tank under nitrogen
pressure of 10 – 50 psig (0.7 – 3.5 barg) and go to step 8.
8. Drain the acid into a holding tank under a positive nitrogen
pressure of 10 – 50 psig (0.7 – 3.5 barg). Drain in as short a time
as possible, using the maximum number of drain valves consistent
period of one hour.
10. Fill the boiler with hot condensate mixed with 50 to 100 kg of soda
ash to a level slightly higher than the acid level (not out of sight in
Page 37 of 50
the level gauge). Drain the boiler under nitrogen as before and refill
with condensate, for a second rinse. Drain the second rinse under a
positive nitrogen pressure. Soda ash may have to be added to the
solution drained directly into the sewer, to ensure that its pH is
above 7. When no repeat solvent cleaning is required (see step 11
below) add about 0.1% by weight of citric acid to the second rinse
to assure more thorough iron removal.
or corrosion rate >600 mpy for 15 minutes, rinse the boiler with
condensate, open the mud drum and remove sludge and solids,
water flush to clear drains and repeat steps 1 to 9 above.
11.5 Sulfamic Acid

Sulfamic acid 5.0 to 10.0% by weight

0.1 to 0.2 % by volume
Inhibitor
11.5.2 Testing
Before adding the acid to the boiler verify its corrosion rate at
149°F (65°C) by LPR for inhibitor for effectiveness. Take samples at
30 minute intervals, or more frequently. Perform analyses as rapidly as
possible and preferably on-site.
Monitor acid and iron concentrations, corrosion rate, temperature, and

inhibitor effectiveness.

Page 38 of 50
11.5.3 Precautions

11.5.4 Procedure
(60°C). If the condensate is not at a high enough temperature, use
an external heat exchanger, or inject steam, to obtain temperature
and adjust by circulation. It is necessary to approach metal
temperatures from below because of the non-uniform rate of
cooling between the thin walled tubes and thick wall drums and
headers. All furnace openings and dampers must be closed to
retain the heat.
on-site. Blend inhibited acid solution into the boiler as quickly as
possible. It is good practice to blend a slightly higher
concentration during the beginning of the fill than at the end
because the initial acid entering the boiler is consumed to some
degree during the fill.
on lower header and drum connections. This is essential in order to
achieve good cleaning, reduce corrosion, and maintain uniform
Page 39 of 50
temperatures and concentrations. Take samples from the various

locations and monitor temperature, acid strength, iron
concentration, and inhibitor effectiveness. During circulation,
temperatures will gradually decay from the original figure of
approximately 149°F (65°C). This is acceptable to 122°F (50°C).
If it becomes necessary to raise the temperature, use steam coils, or
other means, in the temporary circulating tank. Do not fire or inject
steam into the boiler. Check for leaks in the circulation system.
If the leaks cannot be contained or, if the acid strength falls below
3.0%, or if the total iron exceeds 10,000 mg/L, or if the measured
corrosion rates exceed 600 mpy for a period of 15 minutes and
action by the cleaning crew fails to reduce the corrosion rate below
this level, drain the boiler immediately into a holding tank under
nitrogen pressure of 10 – 50 psig (0.7 – 3.5 barg) and go to step 8.
7. Drain the acid under a positive nitrogen pressure of 10 – 50 psig
(0.7 – 3.5 barg) into a holding tank. Drain in as short a time as
possible, using the maximum number of drain valves consistent
period of one hour.
9. Fill the boiler with hot condensate to a level slightly higher than
the acid level (not out of sight in the level gauge). Drain the boiler
under nitrogen as before and refill with condensate, for a second
rinse. Drain the second rinse under a positive nitrogen pressure.
Soda ash may have to be added to the solution drained directly
into the sewer, to ensure that its pH is above 7. When no repeat
solvent cleaning is required (see step 10 below) add about 0.1% by
weight of citric acid to the second rinse to assure more thorough
iron removal.
or corrosion rate >600 mpy for 15 minutes, open the mud drum

Page 40 of 50
and remove sludge and solids, water flush to clear drains and
repeat steps 1 to 9 above.
12 Neutralization and Passivation
Immediately after solvent cleaning and rinsing of the boiler, the final step is
neutralization and passivation of the freshly cleaned surfaces using any one of the
procedures given under sections 12.1 to 12.3. Use commercial grade quality for all
chemicals in this paragraph except where austenitic materials are present in the system
to be cleaned, the total chlorides of all the chemicals in the mixture must not yield a
final solution containing greater than 50 mg/L as chloride.
Following the neutralization step, perform video boroscope inspection in boiler tubes to
determine whether another acid stage or high pressure water jetting is required.
Also perform video boroscope inspection following the high pressure water jetting to
determine its effectiveness in removing the scale and if more jetting is required before
moving to the passivation stage.
12.1 Carbonate

12.1.2 Testing
Monitor and maintain pH at 9 or greater.
Sodium nitrite is a strong oxidizing agent and must be handled with care.
12.1.4 Precautions
Lower temperatures and less residence time will result in poor

passivation.

Page 41 of 50
12.1.5 Procedure
Blend fill the boiler to level slightly higher than the acid level with a
neutralizing and passivating solution.
Maintain the temperature at 190 – 200°F (88 – 93°C) for six hours and
circulate with chemical cleaning pumps. If necessary use an external
steam coil. At the end of the six hour period, drain the boiler under air
pressure. Open vents, mud and steam drums, and when the drum and
header temperatures fall sufficiently safe to allow entrance mechanically
remove all visible traces of water and loose material in the drums and
tubes using an industrial vacuum cleaner. Inspect internals for
completion of work.
12.2 Phosphates and Nitrite

Monosodium phosphate 0.25% by weight
Disodium phosphate 0.25% by weight
Sodium hydroxide adjust pH to 7
12.2.2 Testing
Monitor and maintain pH by adding caustic if necessary.
12.2.3 Safety hazards
12.2.4 Procedure
1. Blend fill the boiler to a level slightly higher than the solvent level
with the chemicals, and circulate by chemical cleaning pumps.
2. At the end of the six hour period, drain the boiler under air
pressure.
3. Open vents, mud and steam drums, and when the drum and header
Page 42 of 50
temperatures fall sufficiently safe to allow entrance remove

mechanically all visible traces of water and loose material in the
drums and tubes using an industrial vacuum cleaner. Inspect
internals for completion of the work.
12.3 Citric Acid, Ammonia, Sodium Nitrite
Refer to CSD/MED/Corrosion Engineering Group for approved inhibitors.
Citric acid 2.5% by weight

Adjust 4.0 during flash rust removal and
Ammonia
adjust pH to 9.5 during passivation
0.2 to 0.3 % by volume or as recommended
Inhibitor
by manufacturer
Temperature limit Flash rust removal 167 – 194°F (75 – 90°C)
Passivation stage 113 – 122°F (45 – 50°C)
< 600 mpy during flash rust removal
Max. corrosion rates
< 2 mpy during passivation
12.3.2 Testing
Monitor and maintain pH. Monitor dissolved iron, free citric acid
concentration, and corrosion rate during flash rust removal.
12.3.3 Safety hazards
12.3.4 Procedure
Use the procedure described below for flash rust removal,

neutralization and passivation following HCl, or H2SO4, or Sulfamic
acid cleaning or high pressure water jetting.
1. Fill the boiler with condensate water and heat to 194°F (90°C).
Using nitrogen, drain back a sufficient volume to accommodate
the acid and inhibitor addition. Check the inhibitor effectiveness
in the acid on-site. Blend fill the boiler with inhibited citric acid
and ammonia, as quickly as possible, to get a pH of 3.5 to 4.0.
Page 43 of 50
Circulate until the iron level stabilizes while maintaining the free
citric acid concentration at 1% or above. Continue circulation and
cool to 122°F (50°C) by fan.
2. Add ammonia to get a pH of 9 to 9.5. Add 0.5% sodium nitrite.
Circulate for 6 to 8 hours. Drain under air pressure.
3. Refill boiler with hot condensate and drain under air pressure.
Open vents, mud and steam drums, and when the drum and header
temperatures fall sufficiently safe to allow entrance remove
mechanically all visible traces of water and loose material in the
drums and tubes using an industrial vacuum cleaner. Inspect
internals for completion of work.
13 Fire-Side Cleaning
Neutralization of acidic deposits to mitigate corrosion, and cleaning to improve

performance, are required on the fireside when the steam generation equipment is
shut down for periodic maintenance. Unless removed or neutralized, the acid forming
sulfurous deposits collect on the tubes or in crevices beneath clips and around tubes
where they pass through the refractory. These deposits are hygroscopic, i.e., they
absorb moisture from the air to form low pH, corrosive acids during downtime.
Severe corrosion can be prevented by spraying susceptible areas with a soda ash
solution as soon as the equipment is cooled following shutdown.
13.1 Preparation
1. After neutralizing and cleaning immediate firing for drying out is mandatory.
2. Wear personnel protective equipment. See SABP-A-051 on the hazards of
steam generation equipment dust.
3. Sweep clean furnace side.
4. Keep open and clear all furnace and other fire-side drainage systems.
Remove all furnace refractory drain plugs and prove the drainage system is
clear.
5. Erect scaffolding in accordance with Saudi Aramco Construction Safety
Manual, Section 13 to enable those engaged in the cleaning to reach all
parts of the furnace and generating bank, including superheaters.
6. Seal all refractory and partially embedded tubes with bitumen if required to
protect the refractory.
7. Provide suitable pumping, distribution system, and storage for cooled
condensate water < 105°F (< 40°C) at the steam generation equipment.

Page 44 of 50
13.2 Method
1. Mix the condensate water with 2 - 3% Soda Ash and 0.05 vol% wetting
agent. Keep the effluent water pH above 8.5 at all times during the
neutralizing and cleaning steps by checking the pH of samples from the
furnace drains.
2. Use the condensate water pressure, connect to a manifold, and inject the
mixed cleaning solution.
3. Keep all cleaning hose sizing ½ inch to ¾ inch, and suitably fitted with jets.
4. Keep a pressure of 116 psia (810 kPa) + 5% at the manifold, in the furnace.
5. During neutralizing and cleaning, do not use excessive water pressure to
prevent damage to the refractory.
6. Remove hard deposits manually rather than increasing pressure.
7. Man each cleaning hose with one operator.
8. Start neutralizing and cleaning at the highest point of each part to be cleaned.
9. Specially attend those areas where an accumulation of combustion deposits
are prone to gather, e.g., tube roots (top and bottom). Monitor and maintain
effluent in an alkaline condition.
10. Take care not to direct jet directly at refractory, or persons.
11. Do not allow water to build up a level in the furnace.
12. On completion of the neutralizing and cleaning, replace the furnace
refractory drain plugs, remove scaffolding and all equipment.
13. Close the furnace and fire the steam generation equipment on low flame to
dry out the furnace and burn off the protective coating from the refractory.
14. Shut off all drains when the steam generation equipment is on line.
14 Evaluating Cleaning Performance
14.1 Inspection
Operations, Engineering and Project Management and the cleaning contractor

shall inspect after the chemical cleaning, to ascertain that the job has been
successfully completed. Visual and video boroscope inspection are carried out
to determine the effectiveness of cleaning. No visible traces of water, scale
(loose or adherent) inside the steam generation equipment drums and tubes are
acceptable. Remove the corrosion coupons, remove the corrosion probes,
Page 45 of 50
visually examine them, weigh them, and calculate the loss of metal thickness
(usually <25 microns) due to chemical cleaning (see SABP-A-036).
14.2 Scale Density after Cleaning
For boilers, the scale density shall be < 50 g/m2 of a cut out tube sample after
chemical cleaning.
15 Precautions and Preparations after Cleaning
15.1 Steam Generation Equipment Lay-Up
Follow requirements in SAEP-1026.
15.2 Preparations for Putting the Steam Generation Equipment into Service
15.2.1 Procedure
Prior to firing the steam generation equipment for initial operation:

1. Inspect the steam drum. Blow internal gauge glass connections
and instrument leads out. If required, flush any loose sediment
from the drum surface and centrifugal separator inlet boxes, out
with condensate. Flush with condensate from the drum, draining
through the acid fill or drain connections at the bottom of the
steam generation equipment. Minimize exposure of the internals
to damp atmospheres to reduce rusting before returning the steam
generation equipment to service.
2. Inspect any readily accessible headers and flush clear water
through the open end of headers, if required.
3. When all internal surfaces are clean, install all header hand hole
and caps which were removed. Install steam drum internals.
4. Remove temporary piping and/or valves from all acid cleaning
connections.
5. Perform a thorough inspection when all work is completed, to
ensure that no foreign material is left in the drums.
6. Reconnect all permanent instruments and verify their condition.
7. Check all hand and manhole covers for signs of previous leakage.
Inspect seats, replace gaskets, and close.
8. Replace all valves contacted by acid.

Page 46 of 50
9. Fill the steam generation equipment in accordance with standard

operating procedures, and perform any necessary testing.
10. Reduce the drum water level to the suggested operating level.
15.2.2 The steam generation equipment is now ready for operation.
Revision Summary
23 August 2011 Revised the Next Planned Update." Reaffirmed the content of the document, and reissued
with minor revision to ensure that only approved cleaning contractors should be contracted to
perform cleaning jobs.
18 June 2015 Editorial revision to change the primary contact and add list of appendices.
16 October 2016 Major revision to clarify and address gaps identified by the Standards Committee members.
Those gaps are outlined below:
a) Merge requirements from SAEP-1024 into SAEP-1025;
b) Include all related Saudi Aramco and International References;
c) Align Testing Requirements with International Standards NACE TM 0169, NACE TM 0193
and ASTM D3484;
d) Include New Section on Roles and Responsibilities;
e) Include New Section on Definitions and Abbreviations;
f) Clarify Criteria for Cleaning;
g) Clarify Criteria for Cleaning Performance; and
h) Relocate All Non-Mandatory Requirements to SABP-A-051 (new).
1 January 2018 Editorial revision to modify paragraphs 11.1.4, 11.2.4, 11.4.4, 11.5.3, 6.2.1, and Section 11
(2nd paragraph).

Page 47 of 50
Appendix A - Contractor Submittals
1 Steam Generation Equipment and Piping Details

 Location, Fill volume, Materials of construction
 Components isolated, blinded, plugged, or removed superheater, reheater,
economizer, instruments, chemical feed lines, steam separators, cyclones, baffle
plates
 Scale density and composition tube sample before and after cleaning using the
proposed procedure
2 Selected Treatments for Cleaning

 Hot Alkaline Cleaning
 Removal of copper >10%
 Acid
 Neutralization and passivation
 Fire-side cleaning
3 Materials and Quantities

 Steam condensate volume for each stage of cleaning
 Nitrogen volume for each stage of cleaning
 Chemicals and quantities
 Inhibitor name and quantity
4 Equipment and Piping Details

 Pumps and capacities
 Piping, Fittings, and Valves
 Tanks and capacities
 Power source

Page 48 of 50
5 Control Parameters
 Circulation rate, temperature limits, chemical concentrations, pH, M-alkalinity,
Fe, Cu, corrosion rate
 Sketch of circulation path, showing locations of: pumps, control valves, chemical
injection, flow and temperature instruments, corrosion probes, vents, drains,
blinds, plugs
 Waste disposal plan and approvals per SAEP-327, SAES-A-103, and SAHWC.
 Chemical analysis procedures
 Contractor safety manual
 Contingency plans to handle piping leaks, pump failures, rescue from confined
spaces
 Corrosion control methodology
 Quality assurance and control procedures
 Personnel assigned and their qualifications
 Schedule of activities, start and end dates
6 Final Report
The contractor shall submit a final report to include the approved cleaning procedure,
all control parameters, log sheets, evaluating cleaning performance by Inspection, and
lessoned learned, etc.
7 Safety
 Job safety analysis document
 Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for the cleaning chemicals

Page 49 of 50
Appendix B - Chemical Cleaning Log Sheet
Plant Location Chemicals Used
Equipment No. Date / Time Started
Equipment Type Date / Time Finished
Solvent Total Iron Chemical Cu2+ PO43- CO32- Corrosion

Date Time pH Remarks
Temp (°F) Conc. (%) Concentration (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) rate (mpy)

Page 50 of 50

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Engineering Procedure

SAEP-1025 1 January 2018

Appendix A - Contractor Submittals ........................ 48

Previous Issue: 16 October 2016 Next Planned Update: 16 October 2019

©Saudi Aramco 2018. All rights reserved.

1.4 This procedure is supplementary to the steam generation equipment

2 Conflicts and Deviations

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard

Saudi Aramco Construction Safety Manual

Saudi Aramco Hazardous Waste Code (SAHWC)

Saudi Aramco Safety Management Guide

Saudi Aramco Best Practices

SABP-A-036 Corrosion Monitoring Best Practice

SABP-A-051 Supplement to Chemical Cleaning Procedures

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

4 Definitions and Abbreviations

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Carbonize: Deposit containing iron sulfides or coke material

Chelating Agents: Chemicals such as Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid,

Condensate: Good quality water having a conductivity of less than 50 µS/cm.

Inhibitor: A compound that retards an undesired chemical reaction such as corrosion

JSA: Job Safety Analysis

Mils per Year (mpy): A measurement of corrosion penetration in thousands of an inch

Neutralization and Passivation: A treatment for steel surfaces to give greater

Passivation: A treatment for steel surfaces to give greater resistance to corrosion by

Sacrificial Valve: A substitute valve used in a chemical cleaning operation in place of

Surfactant: A compound which reduces surface tension when dissolved in water or

5 Roles and Responsibilities

5.1 Saudi Aramco Project Management Team (SAPMT)

For new construction, SAPMT shall be responsible to:

procedure with other Saudi Aramco organizations.

5.1.3 Coordinate and obtain approval of chemical cleaning procedures from

5.1.4 Arrange pre-cleaning and post-cleaning inspection with the Inspection

5.1.5 Maintain a permanent written record of the cleaning operation,

5.2 Execution Authority

5.2.1 Prepare the equipment mechanically.

5.2.2 Provide maintenance support during the cleaning operation.

5.2.3 Coordinate with Operations Engineering to develop scope of work for

5.2.4 Coordinate cleaning operations and obtain approved contractor services.

Contact CSD/MED/Corrosion Engineering Group for the Saudi Aramco’s

5.2.6 Coordinate a pre-job meeting with the chemical cleaning contractor,

5.2.9 Provide sufficient condensate or steam generation equipment make-up

water, and nitrogen at site to accomplish the cleaning operations.

5.2.10 Report regularly all cleaning operations’ results to approval authority.

5.3 Approval Authority (Proponent)

5.3.3 Act as a technical representative to address any technical queries during

5.3.7 Ensure adequate safety procedures and precautions are taken.

5.3.8 Notify Loss Prevention Department to review safety during cleaning, as

5.3.9 Seek clarification, consultation, and technical support from CSD, as

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

5.4 Inspection Authority

5.5 Consulting Services Department (CSD)

5.5.1 CSD shall provide clarification, consultation, and technical support, as

5.6 Research and Development Center (R&DC)

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

5.6.3 Recommend a third-party lab for testing cleaning chemicals if required.

5.6.4 Provide consultation advice on request.

5.7 Area and Regional Laboratories

5.7.1 Perform scale density, chemical analysis, compatibility of blended

5.8 Loss Prevention Department