Material specification and the availability and life of desalination equipment in both Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Gulf

The author describes operational experience with various materials of construction in both low temperature polyphosphate treated evaporators and also in high temperature evaporators using acid treatment.The author references the repeated use of unsuitable materials and proposes a solution by the development of more detailed and positive specifications for plant and equipment. A problem faced by many manufacturers is the fact that as a result of broad, open specifications they are forced to use inferior materials in order to remain competitive. The author discusses the use of both corrosion resistant linings and operating experience. In summary, the paper correlates the operating conditions with selection of materials.