Fouling refers to the buildup of solid matter in a water system, like scum on the surface of a pond, or rust on the hull of a boat. This buildup can take on many forms, both living and non-living, and in industrial settings, it can be a real headache to alleviate.
Read on to see more examples of fouling, and to learn about the negative effects it can have on an industrial system.
Types of Fouling: Biological
Material buildup can be distinguished simply as biological (aka “biofouling”) or non-biological.
Biofouling can refer to the build-up of…
- Bacteria
- Algae
- Fungus
- Mussels
- Barnacles
- Other microorganisms
Typically, biofouling is more common in warmer water and slower-moving water. Biofouling is a particular issue in ocean-based systems, because of the microscopic biodiversity of seawater.
Types of Fouling: Non-Biological
Non-biological fouling can occur simultaneously with biofouling, but is dependent on the make-up of the water, and material the system is made of. Here are a few examples:
Particulate
This refers to the building up of particles, maybe through pollution or natural particles like silt or leaves.
Precipitate
Precipitation occurs when chemicals in the water lose their solubility (through temperature change or change in the water movement), and collect in solid form.
Corrosion
Just like rust, certain materials will react with the water and may start to release solid material which can collect and affect the efficiency of the system.
Freezing
Sometimes if the water is cold enough, it will freeze in slower-moving areas. More commonly, oils or waxes will freeze in membranes and slow the flow of water.
Chemical Reaction
If a new chemical is introduced to the system, maybe as a biocide or cleaning agent, it may react with existing chemicals and form solids, similar to precipitation.
Why Is Fouling Bad?
Fouling can cause real problems for the efficiency of industrial water systems. Sometimes it can clog pumps and smaller pipes that are important for the flow of water. This can slow the efficiency of water movement but also lead to the dangerous building up of pressure in delicate areas.
If the system is being used for heat exchange (water is often used as a large-scale coolant), then buildup on the membranes meant to release heat into the water will hurt the transfer of heat.
Certain types of buildup can also contain dangerous chemicals and bacteria that make the water hazardous to human consumption. It is important to understand the type of buildup affecting your system and try to mitigate it.
Looking for a Treatment?
Understanding the best course of action for dealing with fouling can be a challenge. Here at Ecolink, we are ready to help you find the best solution for your needs. Reach out to us today to get started!
What Is Fouling?
/in Ecolink News/by Industrial DegreasersFouling refers to the buildup of solid matter in a water system, like scum on the surface of a pond, or rust on the hull of a boat. This buildup can take on many forms, both living and non-living, and in industrial settings, it can be a real headache to alleviate.
Read on to see more examples of fouling, and to learn about the negative effects it can have on an industrial system.
Types of Fouling: Biological
Material buildup can be distinguished simply as biological (aka “biofouling”) or non-biological.
Biofouling can refer to the build-up of…
Typically, biofouling is more common in warmer water and slower-moving water. Biofouling is a particular issue in ocean-based systems, because of the microscopic biodiversity of seawater.
Types of Fouling: Non-Biological
Non-biological fouling can occur simultaneously with biofouling, but is dependent on the make-up of the water, and material the system is made of. Here are a few examples:
Particulate
This refers to the building up of particles, maybe through pollution or natural particles like silt or leaves.
Precipitate
Precipitation occurs when chemicals in the water lose their solubility (through temperature change or change in the water movement), and collect in solid form.
Corrosion
Just like rust, certain materials will react with the water and may start to release solid material which can collect and affect the efficiency of the system.
Freezing
Sometimes if the water is cold enough, it will freeze in slower-moving areas. More commonly, oils or waxes will freeze in membranes and slow the flow of water.
Chemical Reaction
If a new chemical is introduced to the system, maybe as a biocide or cleaning agent, it may react with existing chemicals and form solids, similar to precipitation.
Why Is Fouling Bad?
Fouling can cause real problems for the efficiency of industrial water systems. Sometimes it can clog pumps and smaller pipes that are important for the flow of water. This can slow the efficiency of water movement but also lead to the dangerous building up of pressure in delicate areas.
If the system is being used for heat exchange (water is often used as a large-scale coolant), then buildup on the membranes meant to release heat into the water will hurt the transfer of heat.
Certain types of buildup can also contain dangerous chemicals and bacteria that make the water hazardous to human consumption. It is important to understand the type of buildup affecting your system and try to mitigate it.
Looking for a Treatment?
Understanding the best course of action for dealing with fouling can be a challenge. Here at Ecolink, we are ready to help you find the best solution for your needs. Reach out to us today to get started!
What Are Cured Epoxy Resin Removers?
/in Ecolink News/by Industrial DegreasersEpoxy resins are extremely versatile epoxide polymers used in several industries. But while these resins are frequently applied for various reasons, they also need to be removed for various reasons. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at epoxy resins and what chemicals it takes to remove this durable substance.
Epoxy Resins Explained
Epoxy resins are reliable due to their durability and strong adhesive qualities. They are generally blended with a hardener or curing agent to cure the epoxy, solidifying it into a stronger substance. Here are only some of the industries this substance is found:
Unfortunately, epoxy can wear down or need to be replaced, but once the epoxy resin is cured, it can be very difficult to remove. Physical removal of cured epoxy is tedious and can even damage the surface bonded to the resin. There is however another option: chemical removal.
What Does Chemical Removal Mean?
Chemical removal of epoxy resin involves using a specialized aggressive chemical solution, or cured epoxy resin removers, to penetrate the resin and break it down, weakening its adhesion to the surface. One of the most common chemicals used for cured resin removal is methylene chloride, which is an effective yet controversial solvent due to its toxicity and negative environmental effects.
Methylene chloride poses multiple risks to both human health and the environment:
Are there any Safer Options for Cured Epoxy Resin Removers?
Fortunately, there are specially formulated products that effectively replace hazardous solvents like methylene chloride and ensure both safety and quality. One example of the ideal epoxy resin remover is Safe Strip, an environmentally preferred resin and paint solvent that possesses many benefits:
Looking to Buy a Safe Strip for Epoxy Resin or Paint Removal?
You can purchase Safe Strip here, or get in touch with our specialized staff here to help you find the best environmentally preferred product for your business or industrial needs.
What Is an Epoxy Resin Remover?
/in Ecolink News/by Industrial DegreasersEpoxy resins are generally used in various industries for their strong adhesive properties, chemical resistance, heat resistance, and versatility. These types of resins are used for dozens of applications, including:
These polymers are usually mixed with a curing agent or hardener in order to harden and “cure” into a stronger substance.
Though these polymers are extremely durable and strong, they can sometimes wear down and need to be removed. It can be very tricky to remove cured epoxy resin, as physical removal can be tedious and damaging to the surface bonded to the resin. Luckily, specific chemicals can be used to make the epoxy removal process much easier.
What Chemicals Can Be Used as Epoxy Resin Remover?
A good epoxy resin remover will be an aggressive solvent that effectively breaks down the epoxy and successfully removes it. Unfortunately, most of these aggressive solvents contain highly toxic compounds that pose various health risks to industrial workers and can be damaging to the environment as air pollutants. For example, methylene chloride has been used for epoxy removal, but is carcinogenic and contributes to ozone depletion.
A safer chemical for epoxy removal can be acetone, which is a strong cleaning agent that effectively removes various epoxy resins. Those searching for a highly effective and specifically formulated product may be more interested in Safe Strip, an environmentally preferred epoxy resin and paint remover which offers numerous benefits over hazardous chemicals:
Looking for an Industrial-Grade Resin Remover?
If you are looking to purchase Safe Strip for your business or industrial needs, you can purchase the product here, or reach out to Ecolink staff here with any questions or help to find the ideal product for you.
What Is the Most Commonly Used Paint Remover Chemical?
/in Ecolink News/by Industrial DegreasersThe most utilized paint remover chemical is methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane. Though effective and relied on by many industries, this chemical is controversial due to its toxicity.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the dangers associated with dichloromethane exposure and alternative chemicals for paint removers that aren’t only safer, but greener.
Dangers of Dichloromethane
Some of the main concerns of using paint removers that contain dichloromethane are worker safety and environmental health. Dichloromethane is classified as an air pollutant and has several hazards associated with exposure to this chemical:
Methylene chloride has even been banned in U.S. consumer paint removers and in the EU. It’s no surprise that many companies are beginning to make the switch from traditional hazardous paint remover chemicals to modern products that are much safer, not only for workers but for the environment as well.
One example of such a product is Safe Strip, an environmentally conscious paint and resin solvent that has been formulated to replace hazardous solvents like methylene chloride, benzene, and toluene.
Benefits of Safe Strip
Not only is Safe Strip ideal for those searching to create a safer workspace, but it also gives peace of mind to those who want to contribute less to environmental damage. Because of strict regulations on hazardous chemicals, companies that switch to safer products do not have to worry about multiple regulations or limits on product usage.
Looking to Purchase Safe Strip for Your Business Needs?
You are in the perfect place! Here at Ecolink, we can help you find the ideal chemicals for various applications. You can check out the Safe Strip product page here, or reach out to our staff with any questions to get help finding the best product for your needs.
Where to Find a Non-flammable Paint Remover
/in Ecolink News/by Industrial DegreasersAggressive paint removers tend to have one specific chemical property that may be undesirable to certain individuals or companies: flammability.
Most industries do not necessarily require a non-flammable chemical, but certain industries may desire one in order to create a safer workplace and reduce risks of fire hazards.
When it comes to painting removal, a non-flammable paint remover ensures a lower health risk for workers, especially for those utilizing the chemical around potential sources of ignition or electrical equipment.
Are Most Paint Removing Chemicals Flammable?
Unfortunately, yes.
The most common chemical used in paint removers is methylene chloride—a potentially carcinogenic flammable compound. Methylene chloride is also infamous for its toxicity, even being banned in consumer paint-removing products.
Those looking for a non-flammable paint remover shouldn’t feel discouraged just yet though, as there are many non-flammable options that are highly effective and are environmentally preferable. For example, Safe Strip is an ideal non-flammable paint and resin solvent that carries considerably fewer health hazards and can even replace hazardous solvents like methylene chloride or benzene.
Why Is Safe Strip the Ideal Non Flammable Solvent?
Safe Strip provides a wider range of applications with its non-flammable property, as workers will not have to worry about using the product around most electrical equipment or potential sources of ignition. On top of that, Safe Strip carries numerous desirable qualities:
Interested in Purchasing Non flammable Paint Remover?
If you’re looking for a high-quality, non-flammable paint removal chemical for your business or industrial needs, then Safe Strip may be the right product for you. Reach out to our expert team today to learn if Safe Strip is right for your company, or visit Safe Strip’s product page to learn more.