Further studies on the use of heat treatment to control biofouling in seawater cooling systems

The response of fouling organisms to simulated heat treatment regimes was tested in a flow through cooling water system conduit simulation facility at San Onofre. Results indicated that constant elevated temperature discharge conduits foul at lower rates than intakes and consequently do not have to be heat treated as often. Observations of annual growth rates of the major fouling organisms resulted in predictive growth models for Mytilus edulis and Balanus tintinnabulum. By utilizing these growth models, heat treatment can be implemented based upon actual need and intervals can be significantly extended during colder water winter periods. These studies indicate potential savings in operating costs while minimizing environmental impact, through a reduction in temperature, duration, and frequency of heat treatment operations for the control of marine fouling at coastal electric generating stations.