How does incoming water temperature affect the slaking process?

Incoming water temperature has a direct impact on the final slaking temperature. Lime slaked at the optimal slaking temperature will result in lime slurry of higher reactivity, reducing the amount of slurry needed in the process. If the incoming water temperature is low, optimal slaking temperature may not be achieved during the reaction, producing inferior quality lime slurry, increasing lime consumption and cost.

Final slaking temperature follows this formula:

Incoming water temperature + heat of reaction = final slaking temperature

The final slaking temperature has a direct impact on the hydrated lime particle size, which is linked directly to the reactivity of the lime slurry.

If the final slaking temperature is below 85 oC (depending on elevation), it may be economic to add a water heater to ensure that optimal slaking temperature is achieved.

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