Where boiler scale is siliceous in character, ammonium bifluoride is used with inhibited hydrochloric acid for its removal. Two percent (2%) or less in 15% inhibited hydrochloric acid at elevated temperatures is left in contact with the scale long enough to loosen it so that it may be flushed from the tubes. In sugar refineries 0.3 to 0.5% Ammonium Bifluoride may be used in 3% hydrochloric acid.