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Microbiological Control in Cooling water Systems

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Directory of Microbicides for the Protection of Materials

1 5.2.1 Introduction

One of the primary problems affecting efficient operation of cooling water system is accumulation and excessive growth of microorganisms. In the operating plant, biological fouling may severely affect process equipment, leading to a progressive reduction in performance and efficiency.

Cooling water systems usually provide optimum conditions for the microbial growth. Ranges of temperature and pH, continuous aeration as well as an abundance of organic and inorganic nutrients and sunlight make cooling towers an ideal place for proliferation of many biological species. As a result, diverse microbial populations may develop.

A number of associated problems can occur due to biological factors in cooling systems, including:

  • Reduction of heat transfer in heat exchangers due to slime and biofilm formation;

  • Restriction of water circulation in condenser tubes;

  • Plugging tubes in heat exchangers causing shutdowns and loss of production in power utilities;

  • Clogging of water...

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Notes

  1. 1.

    *

    See Part Two — Microbicide Data

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Authors
  1. M. Ludensky
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Wilfried Paulus

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Ludensky, M. (2004). Microbiological Control in Cooling water Systems. In: Paulus, W. (eds) Directory of Microbicides for the Protection of Materials. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/1-4020-2818-0_8

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