In any type of cooling system; open or closed, once through or recirculating, growth of microorganisms is a major hindrance. The available heat from the water, air, nutrients and the pH level create an ideal environment for rapid growth often results in biofilm and slime.

Organizations like hospitals, data centers, factories and even large commercial buildings constantly face biofilms and microorganism related problems. Unfortunately, given the nature of cooling systems, it is quite unavoidable without the use of a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent. While many are available in the market, choosing the right one for your cooling system is crucial.

Antimicrobials

Antimicrobials are agents that kill microorganisms of various types including bacteria, algae, fungi, and etc. There are a few types varying in mechanisms of action. An ideal antimicrobial agent should be broad-spectrum and prevent growth of all kinds of microorganisms. By preventing the biofilms and slime formation, biocides prevent damage to the equipment, loss of flow and saves time and resources.

While traditional biocides kill bacteria effectively, there are some shortcomings they haven’t overcome yet. For example, some are not compatible with anionic antiscalants, which means the efficiency of both treatment chemicals are reduced and the treatment cost is multiplied.

The use of additional algaecide is required along with other commonly used biocides. This can add another step to an already complex process and increases the cost. 

Traditional surface-active biocides often create foam as well. Foam usually contains environmental debris, dead bacteria, air bubbles, chemicals etc. A high foam content in the cooling system water causes an operational nuisance and can be damaging to equipment.

Using Low Foaming Biocides

Using a low foaming biocide, preferably one with broad-spectrum efficacy (bactericide, fungicide and algaecide), can reduce the cost by a large margin.

The Garratt-Callahan Formula 3230 is an ideal choice from all perspectives.While it retains all the advantages of typical biocides, it has the added benefit of creating low foam. It is compatible with antiscalants and is not sensitive to skin, increasing efficiency all the while reducing the cost and manpower. It is also LumiTrac® compatible, making it a very hassle-free product.

G-C Formula 3230 is supplied to you ready to use and is water soluble. There is no need for additional preparations and can be added directly to the water. It is also effective in lower dosages which makes it a cost efficient alternative.

Contact us today for more information on our low-foaming, broad-spectrum biocide and how your cooler water treatment fits into the G-C Advantage program