TP25-08 The Invisible Source of Lost Heat Transfer

Biofilm is a hidden cause of lost heat transfer efficiency in heat exchangers and chillers. Surprisingly, few water treatment suppliers are aware of this loss of heat transfer efficiency and don’t conduct measurements of the bacteria in the biofilm. It’s difficult to control conventional biofilm treatment (non-oxidizing biocides) because the water treatment supplier must estimate the chemical dose and feed schedule. There are several methods to measure biofilm, including a new inline, real-time sensor that allows precise feedback control, improving the removal of biofilm and restoring the lost heat transfer efficiency. Minimizing biofilm also deprives Legionella bacteria from reproducing because these bacteria require a higher life form such as an amoeba that exists in the biofilm.