In these times of energy consciousness and conservation it is essential that maximum efficiency be obtained from all components of an industrial process. It is an old cliche that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. We can, however, apply this principle, quite accurately, to our typical cooling systems. If, for any of several reasons, a single heat exchanger out of dozens served by a cooling tower fails, an entire process can be interrupted with potential plant shutdown as the ultimate consequence. It is essential, therefore, that system operation utilize every means available to prevent such failures. For this reason, the use of inhibitors against corrosion, biocides for prevention of slime and/or algae growths, and antifoulants, we do feel that this is an area requiring additional research and evaluation. Much work has been done and published with respect to corrosion control and corrosion monitoring. This paper, hopefully, will expand the practical knowledge, in a similar manner, with respect to the problem of fouling.
