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Description - MacroTech Copper Ion Generator
Marine growth in water intakes, piping
and heat transfer surfaces, if uncontrolled, can result in increased
operating and maintenance costs. Fouled piping, valves, strainers and
heat exchangers cut down the cooling water flow resulting in
increased fuel consumption and, therefore, more frequent cleanouts.
In addition, these fouling sites can lead to accelerated corrosion
which, unchecked, results in eventual expensive equipment renewal.
During the summer of 1988 large numbers of zebra mussels (Dreissena
polymorpha) were first seen in Lake St. Clair. By the end of the 1989
growing season, zebra mussels had established themselves in Lakes
Erie, Ontario, Superior, Michigan and the St. Lawrence River causing
enormous problems to electric utilities, water treatment plants and
other facilities. The infestation continued to spread to most bodies
of water throughout the eastern USA and Canada.
The MacroTech Copper Ion Generator uses electrolytically produced ionic copper
and aluminum to control macrofouling and microfouling (biofilm). The
units incorporate the latest technology, the use of impressed
current sacrificial anodes for the protection of fresh water cooling
and service water systems.
The treatment cell is extremely efficient. For example, the ZM-5
requires less than 100 watts to treat 5,000 gallons per minute.
The Copper Ion Generator controls biofouling two ways:
First, the electrolytic dissolution of ionic copper int the water
inhibits veliger settlement. The level of copper added to the water
is 5-10 PPB above ambient, which is an environmentally acceptable
level.
Second the ionic copper inhibits biofilm formation, thereby reducing
the potential for microbiologically induced corrosion (MIC).
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