471 Biofilms, Biocides, and TTPC: A Deep Dive with Dr. Jeff Kramer

About this episode

Dr. Jeff Kramer discusses the significance of biofilms in cooling systems and the importance of choosing the right biocide program.

Biofilm is not a fringe issue in cooling systems. As Dr. Jeff Kramer explains, it is a given. That matters because biofilm affects heat transfer, contributes to corrosion, and can serve as a reservoir for Legionella in treated systems. In this conversation, Trace Blackmore and Dr. Kramer examine what experienced water treaters should be looking for when choosing and evaluating a microbiological control program. Biofilm as an operating problem Dr. Jeff defines biofilm as a community of microorganisms attached to a surface and held together by an external polymeric matrix. From there, the discussion moves quickly into why this matters in the field. He points to research showing that biofilms can be more insulating than mineral scale, then explains how microbial activity and patchy film formation can intensify corrosion risk. He also notes that Legionella can be harbored within biofilm, making clean-looking bulk water an incomplete picture of system condition. Choosing the right biocide program A strong oxidizing biocide foundation remains central, whether based on chlorine or bromine. However, Dr. Jeff makes a practical distinction that matters to service professionals: some…

People in this episode

Host: Trace Blackmore

Guest: Dr. Jeff Kramer

Topics covered

• biofilm
• biocides
• microbiological control
• cooling systems
• corrosion
• water treatment

Keywords

• biofilm
• biocides
• cooling systems
• corrosion
• Legionella
• microbial activity
• water treatment

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Legionella

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