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Problems Caused By Biofilm
Energy Costs
Biofilm is 85-95% water. It acts as an insulating layer of
stagnant water. As water has one fifth the thermal conductivity of carbonate
scale, a 1 mm biofilm is has the equivalent insulating properties of 5 mm of
scale, resulting in greatly reduced heat transfer efficiencies at heat exchange
surfaces.
Biofilm Can Cause Corrosion
Anaerobic (live without oxygen) sulphate reducing bacteria can
form and live in biofilm. These produce sulphuric acid which will corrode pipes
and can result in leaks.
Aerobic (need oxygen to live) iron-oxidising bacteria can cause serious
corrosion to pipes.
Biofilm Increase Frictional Drag
As biofilm grow in pipes, they reduce pipe diameter resulting
in frictional drag, pressure drops, and increased pumping power.
A 1.5 mm biofilm reduces flow area by 42%. This results in reduced efficiency
and increased costs.
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