4.1 The results are used to characterize the scale and water formed deposits formed in systems using water as a heat transfer fluid or deposits formed that has resulted from water being transported, stored or used for any other purpose. It is also used to evaluate the quality of water used in the system where the deposit has been found. Characterizing the scale/deposit will assist in the design of the water treatment protocols to avoid further scale or deposit buildups which can cause increased energy consumption or damage to the system due to corrosion or microbiological growth. The use of modern up-to-date chemical detection systems will increase the usefulness of the practice.

1.1 This practice covers the manner in which the results of examination and analysis for constituents of deposits formed on systems using water as a heat transfer media or water formed deposits from any other purpose and how they are to be reported.

1.2 While various practices of reporting the analysis of water-formed deposits are in use, this practice is intended as a rational and comprehensive practice for general application. For use in specific industries or individual cases, molecular combinations may be useful and desirable.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.