Alloys of aluminum are being implemented in heat transfer applications, including hot water boilers, more frequently due to aluminum’s very high conductance of heat. However, aluminum is much more expensive and highly reactive when compared to standard materials used in these applications, such as steel.

While the use of these alloys can provide improvements to heat transfer efficiency for hot water boilers and heat exchangers, a proper water treatment program tailored to minimize corrosion of aluminum while maintaining protection of other metals within the system is critical. The decision to implement such equipment must be made by balancing the potential savings through reduced utilities consumption or shortened cycle times against the increased risk of system damage and premature failure due to the reactive nature of aluminum alloys.