Sidestream

Sidestream microbial monitoring facilitates the examination of sessile microbial communities in-situ within industrial systems.

Our Sidestream application is one of several cutting-edge microbial monitoring solutions we have developed to assist you in understanding the microorganisms that inhabit your water systems.

A Sidestream microbial monitoring device replicates the conditions of your oil and gas systems by offering a parallel branch of fluid flow. This helps you to evaluate the susceptibility of metal surfaces to microbiologically influenced corrosion and other potential problems.

How does it work?

We have developed our sidestream device to facilitate a convenient approach to monitoring sessile bacterial numbers in situ in various types of industrial environments. For the oil and gas industry this includes seawater uplift systems, seawater injection systems and systems using produced water re-injection. It can also be effectively installed on cooling water systems, waste water streams and effluent discharge lines.

The sidestream device exposes a metal surface, or biostud, to flowing process water to accommodate frequent sampling of sessile bacterial numbers without the need for system shutdown. Biofilms that develop on these biostuds are representative of those present in the simulated operating system.

Data that can be gathered from this process include the numbers of sessile sulphate-reducing bacteria, heterotrophic bacteria and sulphide concentrations. The growth rate of a particular biofilm can be established if biostuds are used and the exposure time is recorded.

Utilising sidestream results, an accurate measurement of the efficiency and optimal concentrations of preventative chemical treatments (such as biocides and sulphide scavengers) can be made.

In some cases, we can deliver bespoke research projects using our research and development laboratory to trial simulated conditions using our bank of integrated Sidestream units under prescribed conditions to match your system. This package can be complemented with our consultancy services to assess the data output and deliver relevant solutions to improve productivity and enhance asset and environmental safeguarding.

For such an integral undertaking, you need a Total Quality Assurance partner with in-depth industry and microbiological monitoring knowledge to guide you through your challenges and provide reliable solutions.

Our efficient sidestream device is designed to save you both time and money, ensure optimal performance and ultimately, add value to your business.