MODERN CHILLER SYSTEMS are designed to operate with little or no fouling on condenser tubes. Even a thin coating of scale reduces chiller efficiency significantly. A 1/16″ layer of calcium carbonate based scale on the condenser tubes of a high efficiency centrifugal chiller negatively affects the efficiency to the extent that electrical consumption is increased by 14%.
Biofilm has an even greater effect on chiller electrical consumption. Biofilm, the slimy substance formed on heat exchange surfaces by water-borne bacteria, is four to five times as insulating as calcium carbonate scale. A biofilm layer 1/16″ thick increases the chiller’s electrical usage by as much as 35%, and can even result in the shutdown of the equipment.
Electronic or magnetic water treatment devices work by causing the precipitation of calcium carbonate, frequently resulting in scale formation on condenser tubes, increasing the chiller’s electrical usage and expanding its carbon footprint. When these devices are used without biocide addition, biofilm will likely form, exacerbating the problem.
Similarly, inexpensive, low technology cooling water chemical programs often allow scale and biofilm to foul condenser tubes, with the same environmentally (and economically) devastating results.
Green program state-of-the-art technology provides like-new condenser tube conditions, allowing chiller systems to operate at maximum efficiency, minimizing their carbon footprint.
For more information on energy use, visit the Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration website.
Use the Interactive Carbon Calculator below to discover how scale can inflate your operating costs and carbon footprint. Input your system specifications and energy costs to see the savings the Bond Green Cooling Water Program can achieve for you. Also if you are having an issue getting the calculator to function there might be a problem with your internet browser. You can try and clear your cache and/or you can also contact Jim Clarke at Bond Water Technologies. He can help run the numbers for you. Jim’s email is Jclarke@bondwater.com and the office number is (301) 721-2663.
Carbon Calculator
Email Results to Yourself
Forward Results to An AssociateWe encourage you to contact us today if the above calculator shows that Bond can save you money through our Bond Green Cooling Water Program. We’re confident that we can save you money while significantly contributing to energy conservation.
Contact us today! You can reach us by phone at 301.721.2663, or send us an email. You can also complete our Request for Information form.