What chemicals should cooling tower bleeds that flow to the sewer be checked for overdoses of?

Cooling tower bleeds released into the sewer should be monitored for overdoses of various chemicals due to their potential environmental and health impacts. When cooling towers operate, they require chemical treatments to maintain operational efficiency and prevent issues like scale formation, corrosion, and biological growth.

Chemicals commonly used in cooling towers include algicides, which prevent the growth of algae and other biological organisms that could impair the system's function. Overdosing on algicides can lead to harmful concentrations entering the sewer, potentially harming aquatic life and disrupting the ecosystem.

Acids are often utilized to adjust pH levels, aid in scale removal, and control corrosion. If these acids are released in excessive amounts, they can lead to acidification of water bodies, which can adversely affect aquatic organisms.

Chromate, a corrosion inhibitor, is another substance frequently used in cooling tower systems. Overdosing on chromate can present significant environmental hazards due to its toxicity and potential to contaminate water supplies.

Since all of these chemicals can have potentially harmful effects when overdosed, it is critical for facilities to regularly check for their concentrations in the bleed water before it is discharged into the sewer system. Monitoring all these substances ensures compliance with environmental regulations and minimizes the risk associated with chemical exposure in the environment