What is the primary treatment process for controlling corrosion or scaling in water systems?

The primary treatment process for controlling corrosion or scaling in water systems is stabilization. Stabilization involves adjusting the water's chemistry to create conditions that inhibit corrosive actions on metal surfaces within the piping system. This is often achieved by controlling parameters such as pH, alkalinity, and calcium carbonate saturation.

When water is aggressive or under-saturated, it can lead to corrosion of pipes and infrastructure, which may create water quality issues and increase maintenance costs. The stabilization process typically aims to achieve a balance that prevents both scaling and corrosion, ensuring that the water does not react adversely with the materials of the distribution system.

Filtration, oxidation, and coagulation serve different purposes in water treatment. Filtration is mainly used for removing suspended solids and particulate matter from water, benefiting clarity and aesthetics. Oxidation is directed towards the removal of specific contaminants, such as iron or manganese, by converting them into solid forms that can then be filtered out. Coagulation is a process that promotes aggregation of suspended particles into larger clumps (flocs), allowing for their removal from the water through sedimentation or filtration. While these processes are essential for overall water treatment and quality, they do not specifically target the control of corrosion or scaling as the stabilization process does.