91-04: Fail-Safe Cooling Water Operations

Proper attention to cooling water systems operating and control parameters, and quick response to early warning signs of impending trouble can usually prevent sudden or unexpected problems. Cooling water programs and corresponding operating parameters must be evaluated and selected carefully, based on practical systems conditions. Regular chemical testing and trending of data will highlight undesirable effects before they become serious using the proper installation and use of performance-measuring devices, such as corrosion coupons. On-line corrosion monitors and deposit monitors will indicate expected results and needs for program adjustments. Finally, if a failure does occur, proper sampling, identification and historical documentation will make the failure analysis pertinent and useful, and point the way to reliable corrective and preventive action.