Innovative Microbiological Control Program Significantly Improves Cooling System Performance

GoalImprove microbiological control and reduce carbon steel corrosion.

<h6>Customer Challenge</h6> <p>A large North American refinery was experiencing microbiological fouling and microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) throughout its cooling system. The refinery was interested in replacing its existing microbiological control program, which consisted of a continuously fed oxidizing biocide, with an alternative program to address the fouling and corrosion issues.</p> <h6>Recommended Solution</h6> <p>After performing a thorough audit of the cooling system, Solenis recommended the refinery employ ClearPoint biofilm detection and control program in a critical cooling tower system with the most microbiological fouling and highest carbon steel corrosion rates. Notably, the ClearPoint program does not cause any of the adverse side effects associated with using strong oxidizing biocides.</p> <h6>Results Achieved</h6> <p>Immediately after implementation of the ClearPoint program, microbiological fouling was significantly reduced. The reduced fouling and lower oxidation potential of the program helped reduce carbon steel corrosion rates by 50%. The approach to wet bulb temperature dropped to below 8&deg;F in the following summers after treatment, indicating more efficient cooling tower performance. Vastly improved process heat exchanger throughput and refinery operation were also achieved due to the improved cooling system performance.</p> <p><img style="max-width: 100%; width: auto; height: auto;" src="/link/2df05309e85142b2aa058e172f329fd6.aspx?1752578318929" width="1100" /></p>