Spring is almost here for half of the globe, which means it is almost time to start up those comfort cooling systems in hospitals, universities, offices, and shopping malls! Although many who service HVAC systems and cooling towers probably already know the importance of removing biofilm at this time, sometimes it is good to get some quick reminders and recommendations on why and how to get a clean start each spring!
Time for a Clean Start
During the winter season, many cooling towers are shut down and drained. Unfortunately, any residual dampness can be a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and biofilm (a.k.a. slime). Biofilm can cause minor to serious problems by encouraging corrosion, reducing heat exchange efficiency (more so than the scale!), and harboring insidious bacteria such as Legionella. All these are very good reasons to get rid of biofilm. However, because biofilm clings to surfaces and makes it difficult for biocides to access and destroy the bacteria, it is important to apply a bio dispersant like BioClean 612™ that leads the way to a clean start for cooling tower operation.
Three Steps to Biofilm Removal with BioClean 612™
BioClean 612™ is a powerful aliphatic amide based organic penetrating agent and organic deposit dispersant that works in synergy with biocides. BioClean 612™ penetrates biofilms, lifts them off the internal surface of the cooling tower, and keeps them dispersed so biocides can have free access to them. There are three basic steps to the process once the cooling tower has been refilled and the circulating pumps turned on:
1. Add BioClean 612™ to the tower and circulate for 30-45 minutes to loosen the biofilm off the surface.
2. Add biocide of choice to kill the bacteria and turn the biofilm into dead siltlike matter.
3. Filter the biofilm residue out of the system.
Enjoy the Benefits of Biofilm Cleaning
Following biofilm removal best practices is a winning strategy from many angles. Not only does it minimize the health risks of breeding and harboring bacteria; it also maximizes heat exchange efficiency, reduces the corrosiveness of the environment, and gives the standard water treatment program better access to metal surfaces for corrosion protection and antiscalant purposes.
