Avoid this issues when starting a cooling tower

March 20, 2023 0 Comments

Water conductivity controllers are essential devices used in cooling towers to maintain the water quality and prevent corrosion, scaling, and other problems. However, these controllers can develop issues when the cooling tower has been dry for several months. In this blog post, we will discuss the reasons behind this problem and how to address it.

First, it is important to understand how conductivity controllers work. These devices measure the electrical conductivity of the water in the cooling tower and adjust the chemical treatment accordingly to maintain the desired water quality. When the cooling tower is not in use, the water in the tower evaporates, leaving behind concentrated salts and minerals. These concentrated salts and minerals can accumulate in the pipes and sensors of the conductivity controller, leading to problems.

One of the most common issues with conductivity controllers after the cooling tower has been dry for several months is sensor fouling. The sensors that measure the electrical conductivity of the water can become coated with mineral deposits, which can cause inaccurate readings or even complete sensor failure. The buildup of these deposits can also affect the performance of the chemical treatment system, leading to further water quality issues.

Another issue is the accumulation of salts and minerals in the piping and valves of the conductivity controller. This can lead to clogging, reduced water flow, and pressure drops. The buildup of these deposits can also cause corrosion in the piping, leading to leaks and other mechanical failures.

To address these issues, it is essential to perform regular maintenance on the conductivity controller and the cooling tower. Before restarting the cooling tower, it is important to flush out the system and clean the sensors, piping, and valves. This will help remove any accumulated salts and minerals and ensure that the conductivity controller is operating correctly.

Additionally, it is important to regularly monitor the water quality in the cooling tower and adjust the chemical treatment as necessary. This will help prevent the buildup of salts and minerals and ensure that the conductivity controller is operating within the correct parameters.

In conclusion, conductivity controllers are critical devices in cooling tower systems, but they can develop issues when the tower has been dry for several months. Sensor fouling, clogging, and corrosion can all lead to water quality problems and reduced system performance. Regular maintenance and monitoring can help prevent these issues and ensure that the cooling tower system operates efficiently and effectively.

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