Algae is a simple plant and only needs a few things to prosper: water, sunlight, and nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. This simple recipe makes cooling towers an ideal place for algae to set up shop.
However, accumulation can cause serious problems for the health and efficiency of systems, which is why an understanding of anti-algae chemicals for cooling towers is extremely important.
Examples of Chemicals Used
There are many anti-algae chemicals used to deter growth, and to remove that which has already grown. Some of these chemicals include:
- Carbamates
- Guanides
- Isothiazolines
- Sulfone
- Quaternary Ammonium
- Bis(tributyltin) oxide (TBTO)
- Terbuthylazine (TBZ)
- Tributyltetradecylphosphonium chloride (TTPC)
The efficiency of these various chemicals often depends on the conditions of the cooling water. For example, isothiazolines are only effective in mostly acidic to slightly alkaline conditions (pH 6.5-9.0). Also, some of these chemicals are fine to mix with other biocides, such as chlorine, but others may lose effectiveness when used conjointly. For that reason, it is extremely important to look at all of the additives you are using to make sure they will work harmoniously with each other.
Why Anti-Algae Chemicals Are Important
Controlling the growth that occurs inside a cooling tower is very important for keeping the system working. Algae buildup can clog nozzles, pipes, pumps, and filters can quickly cause clogging that will prevent the proper flow of water.
A coating of plant matter can also decrease the efficiency of heat transfer by insulating the cooling membranes. If you’ve ever touched metal on a hot day, then you are probably familiar with metal’s conductive ability, which is part of what makes cooling towers work so well. However, compare that to touching something fluffy or fuzzy, like grass or fabric. Those substances will not feel as hot, showing how they do not transfer heat easily. When algae or other microorganisms coat the metal in a cooling tower, the heat intended to move into the water will be trapped inside.
Additionally, large growths of algae can lead to the accumulation of Legionella pneumophila, bacteria that thrive on the growth’s byproducts. Legionella is responsible for Legionnaires disease, a serious type of pneumonia that can be contracted by breathing in water droplets or ingesting water that contains the bacteria. While cooling towers are not usually situated near areas with lots of people, these water droplets can travel far, and their design makes the aeration of water easy.
Interested in Anti-Algae Chemicals?
Reducing microorganism growth in industrial machinery is extremely important for increasing the efficiency of the system and preventing damage. At Ecolink, we offer many of the chemicals suggested for algae control. For help with this issue, or any other industrial problem you might have, please reach out today!
Mithuna’s Internship Experience
/in Interns/by Industrial DegreasersThis completes my journey at Ecolink as an intern. It has been a journey of growth and learning, which I assume is the case for every one that went through it with me.
Coming into this internship, I knew how to write scientific papers that earns me an A in my college classes. I also knew how to write a fictional story, which is captivating. At least, that is what my friends say. I never thought about writing captivating, but also scientifically informing pieces, until Ecolink.
For the first time ever, I was able to combine the two types of writing I love to bring interesting and informational works for you. Unlike research done for lab reports, the research necessary for this internship was different in that there weren’t scholarly articles everywhere for the niche topics I was covering. However, due to my degree in biochemistry, I was knowledgeable in most of the scientific aspects of the topics, which helped me a lot. For the aspects I wasn’t sure about, I spent a large amount of time researching.
Starting out, I was a newbie when it came to working with SEO optimization. Most of what I learned was from Ecolink. I’m beyond glad to say that I’m finishing my internship well-versed in SEO optimization. However, that does not mean I’m done learning. There is still a lot more to learn, which is the case with everything we know, and I’m looking forward to continuing learning.
People at Ecolink were extremely understanding, friendly, and willing to teach, which is something I’m grateful for. Working under Hannah was very gratifying because having a supervisor/boss like Hannah is a blessing. She was available at the odd times I would be working, ready to assist me without complaints. She was very understanding towards unexpected situations that arose. Best of all, she was very happy to teach me when I was confused or stuck. She created a very welcoming environment for you to learn, even if that’s by making mistakes.
Though I’m sad about this chapter of my life ending, I will always have the experience and knowledge I gained from this opportunity. I had a lot of fun learning, researching, and writing during my time at Ecolink.
Interested in Remote Internships?
Ecolink offers year-round remote internship opportunities. From digital marketing to SEO Copywriting your time with Ecolink strives to accomplish your goals and areas of interest during your internship with us. We offer opportunities in Spring, Summer, and Fall. Sound like something you’re interested in? Apply today!
Tristan’s Internship Experience
/in Interns/by Industrial DegreasersWhen I first learned about the Ecolink internship, it caught my interest to say the least. I’ve always been passionate about the environment, so working with a company that emphasizes environmental issues and sustainability like Ecolink is a big priority for me. Plus, being able to work remotely and on my own schedule was great as a busy senior in college. All in all, I knew I had to apply right away.
What I’ve Learned
In addition to being perfect for my interests and schedule, the Ecolink internship has also taught me quite a bit and helped me grow as a professional. This Spring, I’ve gotten to learn about:
Entering this internship, I was mostly looking to supplement my schoolwork with something that could give me some insight into the chemical industry and help prepare me to really enter the professional world as an engineer. Exiting this internship, I can definitely say I got what I came for and much more.
Working At Ecolink
Being an intern at Ecolink was an absolute joy. Hannah is a wonderful supervisor that is easy to communicate with, unbelievably helpful and understanding, and just an overall amazing person to work with. I never felt bad about having questions or needing help with something, which makes working so much more pleasant.
In addition to the amazing peers, I also only have good things to say about the work itself. Getting to educate myself on important topics in the industry and then actively work towards presenting that information in a new, more digestible way feels like meaningful work that you can be proud of.
All in all, I can’t recommend interning with Ecolink enough. Amazing work with amazing people, and you can do it in a way that fits perfectly into your schedule. I simply couldn’t ask for more!
What Are Some Anti-Algae Chemicals for Cooling Towers?
/in Ecolink News/by Industrial DegreasersAlgae is a simple plant and only needs a few things to prosper: water, sunlight, and nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. This simple recipe makes cooling towers an ideal place for algae to set up shop.
However, accumulation can cause serious problems for the health and efficiency of systems, which is why an understanding of anti-algae chemicals for cooling towers is extremely important.
Examples of Chemicals Used
There are many anti-algae chemicals used to deter growth, and to remove that which has already grown. Some of these chemicals include:
The efficiency of these various chemicals often depends on the conditions of the cooling water. For example, isothiazolines are only effective in mostly acidic to slightly alkaline conditions (pH 6.5-9.0). Also, some of these chemicals are fine to mix with other biocides, such as chlorine, but others may lose effectiveness when used conjointly. For that reason, it is extremely important to look at all of the additives you are using to make sure they will work harmoniously with each other.
Why Anti-Algae Chemicals Are Important
Controlling the growth that occurs inside a cooling tower is very important for keeping the system working. Algae buildup can clog nozzles, pipes, pumps, and filters can quickly cause clogging that will prevent the proper flow of water.
A coating of plant matter can also decrease the efficiency of heat transfer by insulating the cooling membranes. If you’ve ever touched metal on a hot day, then you are probably familiar with metal’s conductive ability, which is part of what makes cooling towers work so well. However, compare that to touching something fluffy or fuzzy, like grass or fabric. Those substances will not feel as hot, showing how they do not transfer heat easily. When algae or other microorganisms coat the metal in a cooling tower, the heat intended to move into the water will be trapped inside.
Additionally, large growths of algae can lead to the accumulation of Legionella pneumophila, bacteria that thrive on the growth’s byproducts. Legionella is responsible for Legionnaires disease, a serious type of pneumonia that can be contracted by breathing in water droplets or ingesting water that contains the bacteria. While cooling towers are not usually situated near areas with lots of people, these water droplets can travel far, and their design makes the aeration of water easy.
Interested in Anti-Algae Chemicals?
Reducing microorganism growth in industrial machinery is extremely important for increasing the efficiency of the system and preventing damage. At Ecolink, we offer many of the chemicals suggested for algae control. For help with this issue, or any other industrial problem you might have, please reach out today!
What Is Trichloroethylene Used for?
/in Ecolink News/by Industrial DegreasersWhat is Trichloroethylene used for? Trichloroethylene, also known as TCE, is a popular organic solvent used in both industrial and commercial applications. However, TCE is becoming increasingly controversial due to the many negative health effects that come with exposure to this solvent.
Read on to learn more about what trichloroethylene is used for, and the safer alternatives that companies are switching to.
Industrial Uses for TCE
Some of the industrial uses for TCE are as follows:
Degreasing
Refrigerant Manufacturing
Extraction Solvent
Chemical Intermediate
Trichloroethylene is also used as an ingredient in many household products, such as:
Risks of Using TCE
Though widely used in the United States, trichloroethylene use is being questioned by many companies and the public. The solvent poses many health risks to thousands of workers who are exposed to it:
On top of exposing industrial workers to potentially serious adverse effects, the solvent is known to contaminate hundreds of drinking water sources in the country. Trichloroethylene can leak from industrial storage tanks and seep into groundwater, where it is not able to evaporate and accumulates over years. Spills from decades ago are still a concern in the present day.
Because of the risks associated with trichloroethylene usage, green solvents are becoming increasingly popular at the industrial level. These solvents can ensure the protection of workers’ health, and the environment, and end up saving companies more money in the long run.
Interested in Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Hazardous Chemicals?
Ecolink is a chemical company that provides various eco-friendly low toxicity solvents for multiple industrial applications. We prioritize ensuring the safety of workers and the environment, while also ensuring effective performance.
To learn more about how our products can help your business achieve its goals, reach out to us today for a free quote and consultation session!
Is There Trichloroethylene in Drinking Water?
/in Ecolink News/by Industrial DegreasersProper waste disposal, especially when handling hazardous chemicals, is extremely important to ensure the safety of the environment and all surrounding life. Unfortunately, toxic chemicals are not always disposed of correctly, and sometimes other factors, such as leaks from storage tanks or spills, can lead to the presence of contaminants in the environment.
One example of an alarming chemical contaminant is trichloroethylene, or TCE, which has been found to contaminate groundwater and drinking water sources in various locations around the U.S.
In 2015, TCE was found to contaminate the public water systems in 36 states, specifically about 300 water sources.
What Is Trichloroethylene?
Trichloroethylene is an organic solvent that is mostly used industrially for degreasing metal equipment and machinery. Though its primary use is as a degreasing agent, the chemical is also used in other industrial and commercial applications, such as:
Why Is Trichloroethylene in Drinking Water a Concern?
TCE in drinking water is alarming because of the negative effects it may cause on a person’s health, particularly when ingested:
While TCE usually evaporates quickly out of surface water, it can remain and accumulate in groundwater for years, where it is not able to evaporate. Many companies are now becoming aware of the long-term effects of TCE usage and have begun to switch to more sustainable and environmentally-friendly options.
Interested in Eco-friendly Industrial Chemicals?
Ecolink is proud to provide a selection of environmentally conscious, low toxicity chemicals for various industrial applications. Our products will ensure the protection of both workers’ health and the environment—without compromising on quality.
To browse our wide selection of products, click here. Not sure which chemical is right for your company’s needs? Reach out to us today and one of our expert staff members will be happy to assist you!