41. Why is steam direct heating commonly used for pickling solutions? What are the advantages and disadvantages of this method?

Direct steam heating in pickling solutions is widely adopted due to its operational simplicity, high heating efficiency, and stirring effect that accelerates pickling rates while ensuring uniformity. The steam effectively removes hydrogen from steel pipe blanks, reducing hydrogen diffusion into the substrate, and cleanses surface impurities. However, condensation in the steam and moisture generated upon contact with the solution may dilute the acid concentration and increase consumption. Additionally, steam heating generates noise and vibrations-noise adversely affecting environmental conditions and vibrations harming pickling tanks.