Ultrasonic technology for the prevention of biofilm and fouling in storage and pipelines
In the (process) industry, fouling – the accumulation of biological or mineral deposits in pipes, heat exchangers, and reservoirs – can have serious consequences. This fouling reduces flow and heat transfer, leading to lower efficiency and higher energy consumption. In addition, equipment wear increases, resulting in more maintenance and downtime of production processes. Fouling can also affect the quality of the final product and even cause safety or environmental risks, for example, due to overpressure or contamination. Preventing fouling is therefore essential to reduce costs, maintain efficiency, and ensure operational reliability.
By making technology smarter and sustainability measurable, we create solutions that not only perform better but also reduce the impact on people and the environment. In doing so, we set a new standard for efficiency and responsibility.
SmartFlow, our strength in simplicity. An ultrasonic system that sets stagnant fouling in motion, ensuring your installations continue to perform. Less maintenance. Lower emissions. Higher efficiency.
SF5 – SF12 is ideally suited for large industrial installations. The transducers can be programmed independently of each other via the high-tech control unit.
Thanks to their compact design, SF1 – SF4 are very suitable for small and local installations.
They are also easy to install yourself.
Highly effective against biofilm and fouling in the industry of liquid-bearing surfaces, such as: pipes, plate heat exchangers, tanks, and water pipes.
By mounting the transducer on the pipes, the microbiological flora do not get a chance to attach to the walls.
The Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling System from SmartFlow is a preventive system that consists of a control box and one or more transducers. The transducers are glued to the pipes using a 2-component industrial epoxy adhesive. They emit an ultrasonic signal and use the pipe as a sound box. This high-frequency signal will kill the single-celled bacteria (algae) and thus prevent further growth on the ship. These single-celled bacteria are the breeding ground for other organisms.
For correct installation and warranty, it is advisable to have the system installed by Lamers System Care the first time. In particular, the bonding of the rings of the transducers and the determination of the positions of the transducers require professional attention and experience.
The system consumes 3.6 Watts per transducer. It can operate on both 110-240 VAC and 12-24 VDC. If both are connected, the system automatically selects the VAC (shore power) and when it fails, the system automatically switches to the VDC. If the battery voltage becomes too low, the system automatically switches off to save the battery.
The system cannot be felt when it is on. Ultrasound is not perceptible to the human ear. What can be heard is the soft ‘clicking’ of the Ultrasonic transducer, but this is negligible.
The system has absolutely no effect on the surrounding environment. The ultrasonic power is too low to transmit the waves outside the pipes. At 3.6 watts per transducer, the system is powerful enough to affect single-celled bacteria in the pipe, but too weak to damage or disrupt other organisms.
The system can be applied to steel, aluminum and plastic (polyester), as long as it is a rigid material that can transport sound and does not absorb the sound.
The ultrasonic system is a preventive system that prevents the formation of biofilm in pipes. The pipes do not need to be completely clean before installation. However, for optimal system performance, it is advisable to start with a clean pipe. The ultrasonic system cannot remove existing biofilm; it can only slow down its further formation.
Do you want to place an order, ask technical questions, or discuss a custom project? Our antifouling specialists are ready to assist you.
You can easily reach us by phone, email, or contact form. We are happy to help you with all your questions and problems.
