ED2000 ON 2,600 TON COOLING SYSTEM
CUT CHEMICAL  AND ENERGY COSTS

 
Problem:

A 2,600 ton cooling system is used to cool Building #107 at the Rohm & Haas facility in Bristol, PA. A study was performed to determine the chemical savings associated with the elimination of scale inhibitors used in the water treatment program by installing an ED2000 -- Electronic Anti-Fouling (EAF) System.
Prior to installation of the EAF System, chemical costs were $10,239 in 2000 to maintain the system and keep it free of scale.

Cooling Equipment

  • 1400-ton Trane Centrivac
  • 1200-ton Trane Centrivac
  • Three 1500-ton Marley cooling towers

 

Solution:

The ED 2000 solenoid coils were placed on the condenser supply line, the condenser return line and the tower make-up water line.  The ED2000 control unit was mounted within close proximity of the chiller.

  • Chemical Savings -- The initial chemical treatment program consisted of a scale and corrosion inhibitor, dispersant, and biocide.  After installation of the ED2000, the scale inhibitors and then the dispersants were eliminated.  The copper corrosion inhibitor and biocide were continued.  Chemical costs were reduced from $10,239 to $5,000.
  • Energy Savings -- The average cooling load is 700 tons at an annual cost of $137,877.  A 3-degree increase in the condenser approach temperature would increase the energy costs by 5% or more.  Condenser approach temperature records show the the ED2000 controlled scale buildup and there was no degradation of thermal performance.  Estimated savings of 5% or over $6,500.
  • Payback -- The cost of the ED2000 system provided an 18-24 month payback in this particular case.
  • Environmental Benefits -- The cost savings do no include the environmental benefits associated with using this type of treatment program -- no disposal and pollution problems and no handling of hazardous materials.

Photograph of chiller tubes after the EAF test period.

Photograph of chiller tubes after the EAF test period.  Small amounts of scale in lower-left corner are build-up from a prior period.

An inspection of the chiller showed a substancial amount of iron deposits being removed from the channel box and tube sheet.

A deposit analysis indicated 98% iron deposits.  This is build-up from prior treatment periods.

 ED2000 Features and Benefits