Saturday, June 05, 2010

BCB Fluid and Bubble Tubes


Bubble Columns, Walls and Tubes are a feature of most multi-sensory environments world-wide, but concern about infection risks from water used in these is increasing.
BCB fluid - a 'simple to use' treatment you add to the water column on a monthly basis - are the result of substantial research into the prevention of bacterial growth, smell and green algae that develop in bubble columns.
BCB has been developed to treat cooling waters in industry. Originally developed as a preservative for pharmaceutical products and cosmetics, Bronopol is one of the safest and most effective products in it's class. Bronopol can be found in many medicines and even in baby shampoo, lotions and tooth-paste.
bcbfluid.gif
Based upon the proven BCB Tablets our new fluid product features the following:
  • Protection & prevention of infection risk from common aerobic bacteria including Pseudomonas species & Legionella.
  • Prevention of green algae
  • No waiting for tablet to dissolve
  • Easy addition via the bottle dispenser
  • No risk to others when the product is diluted and correctly added to the bubble column
  • Add once a month – 1 bottle treats a 1-metre bubble column for up to 2 years.
  • Proven technology – based on the Bronopol biocide used in the commercial cooling tower industry
  • Long shelf life – up to 4 years
BCB is based on an organic biocide that will not cloud the acrylic tube or weaken the welds & joints and is approved by most leading bubble column manufacturers & suppliers. Please do not use bleach or other similar sterilising fluids.
Full details of the original risk assessment on bubble columns together with the microbial profile of BCB are available on request


BCB tablets were developed to ensure chemical cleanliness of bubble columns.
How infection risks develop in bubble columns:
1. Dust and other debris is drawn into the water in the tube via the air pump. Materials such as dirt, fibres from carpets and clothing and dead skin all harbour micro-organisms which contaminate the water.
2. Warmth, light and aeration in the water provide ideal conditions for microbial growth. Bacteria and algae multiply in the water and grow on the inner walls of the tube, forming slime. This slime provides an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and will spoil the visual effect of the tube.
3. The water used to fill the tube, or to 'top-up' during operation, may contain high counts of bacteria. Remember that tap water is not always sterile.
4. As the bubbles burst at the waters surface, they release a cloud of tiny water droplets (called aerosol) which are carried into the air around the tube. If the water is of poor quality, aerosols can spread harmful bacteria into the air and present a risk of infection.