Water Treatment Cooler Model 140

This water treatment controller for cooling towers by Lakewood Instruments uses the latest microprocessor technology that features multiple inputs and easy setup. Its program uses Lakewood plain English, with user-friendly menu interface. Water meters, sensors, and plumbing assemblies are purchased separately.

Features:

Removable power cord and receptacles for simple conduit installations.

Scheduled feed which can use two relays for biocides or other chemicals.

Standard features include water meter input, conductivity input, flow switch 

input, and 4-20 mA output.

Single circuit board design for better reliability and lower cost.

Large open shallow enclosure for easy wiring.

The enclosure is rated NEMA 4X.

Power selector switch for 115 or 230 vac operation.

Heavy-duty stainless steel domed numeric keypad and illuminated graphical display for quick and easy programming. Tactile sensing and life expectancy of the keypad are also improved.

LED indicators for power, alarm, and relay status.

No add-on options. 4-20 mA output and biocide features are standard.

Multiple methods of chemical feed for application flexibility.

Specifications:

    * Conductivity range: 0 10,000 μS
    * Conductivity sensor: 2 electrodes
    * Conductivity resolution: ± 10 μS
    * Temperature comp: 500 ohm NTC
    * Accuracy and repeatability: ± 1.0%
    * Deadband/Setpoint: adjustable
    * Auto/Manual outputs: selectable menu
    * Display: 16 x 2 characters
    * Water meter input: contact head, paddle wheel, or turbine
    * Timer: maximum blower time exceeded, relay time exceeded
    * Output relays: 2 selectable uses, 1 blowdown
    * Relay ratings: 3A each, 10A total
    * Power: 120/240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
    * Ambient temperature: 0° - 49°C (32° - 120°F)
    * Water temperature: 0° - 49°C (32° - 140°F)
    * Pressure: 140 psi (37°C)

Reference: http://www.lakewoodinstruments.ca/cooling_towers/140.htm

Biocide Products

Last post, we talked about the importance of biocides in system maintenance. Now, we will tackle the different products available through QualiChem Technologies. Each formulation is function-specific and dependent on a system’s make up:

FORMULA 4603 (1.5% isothiazolin) is a non-oxidizing biocide used in recirculating cooling water systems and closed loop systems to control microbial growth. It is a non-foaming solution that is compatible with halogen biocides. A top of the line product!

FORMULA 4615 (30% carbamate blend) is another non-oxidizing antimicrobial product used in recirculating cooling water systems and closed loop systems. This is one of the best biocides over a wide pH range, without adversely affecting treatment components.

FORMULA 4621 (5% DBNPA, 2,2-dibromo-3-nitriloproprionamide) is a non-oxidizing formula that offers excellent broad spectrum. It is a quick-kill solution that rapidly degrades in aqueous environment. Its oxidation potential is lower than chlorine and bromine.

FORMULA 4634 (4% terbuthylazine, 2-(tert-butylamino)-4-chloro-6-(ethylamino)-s-triazine) is used in recirculating cooling water systems to inhibit algal growth. It is compatible with oxidizing biocides and does not affect the system’s component upon application.

FORMULA 4645 (45% glutaraldehyde) is an FDA-approved microbiocide that offers excellent broad spectrum. It is fast acting, non-foaming, and also compatible with halogen biocides.


All of the products are normally shot fed to the water system and fed directly from the shipping container. Tanks, pumps, piping, and valves should be made of stainless steel, polyethylene, or PVC. Products should be kept in a tightly closed container when not in use and should be stored indoors. Recommended storage temperature is 10°C - 40°C (50°F-100°F). When consumed, do not reuse container and dispose it in compliance with federal, state/provincial, and local laws and regulations.

Introduction to Biocides

Bacterial growth in a cooling water system is a major concern that can cause setbacks in an operation. It can result in the formation of biological fouling, or biofilm, on surfaces in contact with water. Biofilm acts as a thermal insulator that decreases heat transfer efficiency in the production equipment. In turn, corrosion rate increases due to formation of anaerobic areas underneath, which creates galvanic couple corrosion and forms metabolic byproducts (e.g. hydrogen sulfide) that attack base metals. Severe cases have resulted in cooling system failures due to biomass plugging.

Waterborne disease is another safety concern because of the possibility of bacterial infection upon human contact. These could all be controlled by maintaining a biologically clean system through periodical treatment of the cooling system with a biocide.

A biocide is a substance that can deter, control, or render harmless any organism through chemical or biological means. It works effectively when a critical dosage is reached and maintained within a certain time frame. Effective critical dosage point and time required varies substantially depending on the type of biocide and the overall condition of the system. Biocides have two major classes: oxidizing and non-oxidizing types.

And oxidizing biocide destroys the cellular structure of an organism. Because it attacks through destructive means, it is virtually impossible for organisms to develop immunity against the treatment substance. Its low unit cost, rapid action against the target organism, and low effective dosage makes this chemical cost effective. But this is not to say that oxidative biocide is without its drawbacks. Some substances can decrease system water’s pH  uncontrollably, while others increase the corrosive nature of cooling water. Some, still, produce undesirable byproducts that are potentially harmful for the environment, particularly chlorine. Corrosion and scale control chemicals are rendered inactive upon contact with some oxidizing biocides, and almost all of these treatment substances cannot penetrate and/or remove organic slime layers.

On the other hand, a non-oxidizing biocide interferes with the metabolic activity of an organism. Because of the bacterial variety, immunity to a particular biocide will be more likely with this type. Follow-up doses will become less potent as microbial population shifts to varieties that they are immune with. They can also be costly in the long run because of the high dosage required, long contact periods, and high unit cost. However, this treatment can function despite the process contamination, and doesn’t contribute to system corrosion and scaling.

To solve this conflict, suppliers use both types of treatment alternately in weekly or biweekly fashion. There are also products that offer both of these types, so called all-in-one packages, although these may not be effective in controlling biological fouling because of the inability to alternate biocides or adjust it's dosage, independent of the other inhibitors. The nature of your water system should be studied well in order to determine the best type of treatment possible.

References:

Biocide. (n.d.). Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved July 8, 2011, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biocide

Keister, T. (2006, May 5). Managing Cooling Water: Preventing Biological Fouling - Archives - Process Cooling. Process Cooling. Retrieved July 8, 2011, from 

http://www.process-cooling.com/CDA/Archives/ce9094fe7160b010VgnVCM1000

Water Test Kits

Test kits are developed to aid experts like scientists, facilities managers, engineers, environmental health specialists, and water treatment professionals to perform a range of water quality analysis procedures quickly and accurately. Testing procedures can be done by the company’s laboratory, subcontractors, or other third party providers. These kits contain replacement reagents to provide accuracy and speed, drop test utilization, comparator reagents, and electronic meters for efficient but accurate monitoring of water samples.

Hardness test kits:

Calcium and magnesium salt deposits in systems cause water hardness, which in turn may lead to scaling. Our hardness test kit, TK3053-Z, is especially for water systems designed for cleaning and sanitation industries. It determines the parts-per-notation of calcium carbonate in the system so you can establish the detergent concentration for cleaning applications. A standard chelating solution is used to titrate the hardness of the sample. At its titration end point, the indicator changes from red to blue.

Bacteria and fungi test kits:

Bacterial and/or fungal contamination in aqueous industrial environments may also cause failures in system productivity, and can lead to economic loss. In order to effectively treat and monitor microbial activity, and to control bacteria and fungi growth, their activity must be monitored routinely. Chemicals Direct offers Duo Bio Slides and Bio Detection Slides to aid in checking for contamination. Both kits are complete and ready to be used, with test instructions and comparator charts.

All products are available through our main website - Buy Chemicals Direct! Order online now!

First Aid Treatment for Propylene Glycol Accidents

Propylene glycol is generally considered non-toxic by the US FDA and is safe for different commercial
preparations. However, it can jeopardize health if substance is mishandled. It is very important that
care should be taken in following precautions and to administer proper first aid treatment in case of an
accident.

Ingestion Problem

Consuming small amounts of propylene glycol poses no substantial risks, but intake of greater than 3-4
oz. (or approximately 100 ml.) may cause stomach pain, nausea, or even vomiting. Medical assessment
may reveal hemoglobinuric nephrosis and surface changes in EEG, especially with patients suffering
from kidney problems. Long-term ingestion can cause lactic acidosis and seizures. Give two to four
glasses of water or milk to dilute the substance if ingested. However, DO NOT induce vomiting if taken
in large amounts. Call instead the local poison control center to mitigate the problem and to get proper
guidance. Victim should be constantly monitored for signs of central nervous system dysfunction and
acidosis.

Inhalation Problem

Propylene glycol does not usually cause inhalation problems but can cause breathing difficulties if
used in areas with poor ventilation. Transfer victim immediately in areas with fresh, circulating air.
Supplement with oxygen if symptoms persist and seek medical help.

Skin Exposure

Skin exposure might cause mild irritation. Remove any tainted clothing and wash exposed skin areas
with plenty of water and soap. Irritation subsides usually. Apply an antibacterial cream if exposed areas
develop rashes.

Eye Exposure

Liquid and vaporized propylene glycol can cause mild eye irritation for some people. If it causes stinging
and redness, wash eyes with cold, running water to soothe. Victims should remove and clean contact
lenses and eyeglasses as well.

Chronic exposure

Propylene glycol may be detrimental for the reproductive system and natal development. Laboratory
studies reveal it to be a suspected teratogen. It can also depress the central nervous system if taken in
large doses.

For more detailed information, visit J.T. Baker (http://www.jtbaker.com/msds/englishhtml/p6928.htm)
or the University of Akron database (http://www.jtbaker.com/msds/englishhtml/p6928.htm).

Inhibited Glycol

Inhibited glycol is another form of propylene glycol widely utilized for a variety of industrial applications like secondary cooling and heating functions, freezing and bursting protection of pipes during the cold season, and for other defrosting, de-icing, and dehumidifying purposes. 

Propylene glycol is propane-1,2-diol in IUPAC nomenclature and is synthesized through propylene oxide hydration. Its single atom has three carbon atoms, eight hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms forming a chain. Other than industrial usage, propylene glycol is usually added to foods, toiletries, and cosmetic products as a preservative and humectant.

Different glycol fluids are employed for the same functions because of their similarity in physical characteristics. Inhibited glycol is one of the safer alternatives. It has a slightly better freeze and burst protection with minimal environmental contamination or toxicity. 

Common Applications:

• Boilers
• Chillers
• Cold room dehumidifiers
• Heat recovery
• Sidewalk snow-melt systems
• Refrigeration coil defrosting
• Refrigeration warehouse floor heating
• Liquid food chillers
• Outdoor wood boilers
• Thermal energy storage (TES) systems
• Freeze/burst/corrosion protection for HVAC system
• Air preheating
• Immersion freezing or chilling for solid, wrapped foods
• Ground source heat pumps
• Process heating and chilling
• Moderate temperature batch processing
• Conveyor roller defrosting
• Fermentation and indirect food cooling
• Solar heating
• Ice skating rinks
• Beverage processing for wines and beers
• Hydronic heating systems
• Radiant floor heating

Inhibited glycol by Chemicals Direct is commonly used by large industries for their systems that require freeze protection or heat transfer improvement. This alcoholic inhibitor is low in toxicity, making it very safe for closed water system use. Package provides an effective chemical combination to protect steel, cast iron, copper, cupric alloys, and aluminum as well. Dilute with water to meet required temperature. Inhibited glycol comes in pink fluorescent appearance for ease of detection. Product is in stock and ready to be shipped the same day!

Propylene Glycol

95% Inhibited Propylene Glycol is a low hazard, propylene glycol based heat transfer fluid concentrate for use in closed water systems. The corrosion inhibitor package provides an effective combination of inhibitors for steel, cast iron, copper, cupric alloys, and aluminum. 95% Inhibited Propylene Glycol is designed to be used in systems requiring freeze protection. Comes clear or with a pink fluorescence.

DOWFROST is a propylene glycol-based fluid that contains a specially formulated package of industrial inhibitors that help prevent corrosion. Because propylene glycol fluids have low acute oral toxicity, DOWFROST is often used in applications where contact with food or beverage products could occur. Specific applications for DOWFROST include: Cooling liquid foods, Packaging carbonated beverages, Fermentation cooling, Process heating, Solar heating. Custom blends readily available in any container size. Convenience of 1, 5, and 55 gallon containers

Biocides

FORMULA 4603 (1.5% isothiazolin) is used in recirculating cooling water systems and closed loop systems to control microbial growth. This is one of the best biocides over a wide pH range against the microorganisms typically found in these systems.

FORMULA 4615 (30% carbamate blend) is used in recirculating cooling water systems and closed loop systems to control microbial growth. This is one of the best biocides over a wide pH range against the microorganisms typically found in these systems.

FORMULA 4621 (5% DBNPA, 2,2-Dibromo-3-Nitriloproprionamide) is used in recirculating cooling water systems and closed loop systems to control microbial growth. This is one of the best biocides over a wide pH range against the microorganisms typically found in these systems.

FORMULA 4634 (4% Terbuthylazine, 2-(tert-butylamino)-4-chloro-6-(ethylamino)-s-triazine) is used in recirculating cooling water systems to inhibit algal growth. This is one of the best biocides over a wide pH range and is normally fed in conjunction with a broad spectrum microbiocide.

FORMULA 4645 (45% glutaraldehyde) is used in recirculating cooling water systems and closed loop systems to control microbial growth. This is one of the best biocides over a wide pH range against the microorganisms typically found in these systems.

Cooling Tower Chemicals

The purpose of a cooling tower or condenser system is to reuse water and reduce water usage. Determining the conductivity set point of the water systemis important to maximumyour water reuse. Conductivity is the electrical resistance measurement of the dissolved solids, suspended solids, and dissolved gases of the water and is expressed in mico ohms (uomhs).

Corrosion inhibitors and scale prevention chemicals are used to maximize the number of cycles the water is used. The definition of cycles is the number of times the water is reused in the water system.

For example, if the makeup water to the cooling tower is 100 uomhs and your tower recirculating is 800 uomhs, your cycles are calculated as follows: Cycles = Cooling Tower Recirculating Conductivity / Cooling TowerMake-up Water

For this Example: Cycles = 800 uomhs / 100 uomhs or 8 Percent blowdown for the tower is calculated the following way:

Percent Blowdown = ( 1 / Cycles) x100 For this Example: Precent Blowdown = (1/8) x100 = 12.5%

This means 12.5% of the water is being lost to blowdown.

Knowing your tower cycles is important for minimizing water usage and reducing the amount of water lost to blowdown. Determining proper cylces or conductivity set point is dependent on the water alkalinity and calcium. Every systemis unique.