WASTE MANAGEMENT & WATER TREATMENT


Cooling systems pay the price for neglected water treatment


ICS Cool uncovers some of the hidden costs of poor water treatment in cooling systems


E


fficiency, reliability, and longevity are critical considerations in managing closed-circuit process chillers. While these units form the backbone of commercial and industrial cooling systems, their


performance depends heavily on proactive and informed maintenance, especially regarding water treatment. Ignoring or inadequately managing water quality can significantly diminish system performance and drive up operational costs. Effective water treatment safeguards cooling systems against a range of issues, from corrosion and microbial contamination to fouling and scaling. Engineers who overlook this maintenance procedure can inadvertently introduce severe complications that compromise both system integrity and productivity.


Common consequences of inadequate water treatment


Premature pump seal failure: Debris and sludge circulating in poorly treated water can accelerate wear on pump seals. Blockages further exacerbate this by causing overheating, resulting in early equipment failure and increased maintenance frequency.


Poor heat exchange efficiency: The formation of scale and sediment layers within heat exchangers restricts thermal transfer capabilities. Partial blockages from sludge or corrosion debris further impede fluid flow,


significantly reducing cooling efficiency and increasing energy consumption.


Corrosion and component breakdown: Improper chemical management can lead to mineral precipitation, causing valves and heat exchangers to fail prematurely. Corrosive water chemistry not only deteriorates metal surfaces but fosters biofilm development and microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC), exacerbating damage.


Operational downtime and reduced throughput: Fouling caused by inadequate water treatment slows cooling cycles in process equipment, such as injection moulding machines, directly impacting production schedules and profitability. Poor heat exchange in cooling equipment can also limit operational capacity, causing similar delays in production.


Blockages and flow restrictions: Corrosion by-products, algae, and bacterial sludge accumulate, obstructing strainers and smaller fluid pathways within the system. This results in restricted flow rates, equipment inefficiencies, and increased energy costs.


Strategies for effective water treatment


Routine monitoring and maintenance Consistent inspections of pumps, valves, and heat exchangers are essential. Regular water quality testing—covering pH, total dissolved solids (TDS),


hardness, and microbiological counts—should be integral to maintenance routines.


Targeted chemical treatment Selecting appropriate corrosion inhibitors, scale inhibitors, and biocides tailored to your system’s specific needs is crucial. A robust chemical management protocol not only prevents system degradation but extends equipment life.


System upgrades Implementing automated dosing equipment and remote monitoring systems enhances precision and responsiveness. These technological solutions ensure chemical dosing accuracy, maintain consistent water quality, and enable early identification of issues.


Professional expertise and training Collaborating with water treatment specialists ensures your maintenance programme aligns with industry best practices. Regular training equips your maintenance teams with the knowledge needed to identify potential issues proactively, preventing downtime and costly repairs.


Conclusion


Water treatment is not simply an operational expense but an essential investment in your cooling system’s performance and reliability. Adopting a comprehensive water management strategy mitigates risks, reduces maintenance costs, and safeguards long-term operational efficiency.


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