How to choose a defoamer for your plant?
First, understand the nature of the foam
Before choosing a reagent, determine where the foam comes from. It could be:
Mechanical mixing or aeration — for example, in bioreactors or when pumping liquids.
The presence of surfactants (surfactants) — residues of detergents, petroleum products, organic matter in wastewater.
High temperature — in boilers and evaporators, foam appears during intense boiling.
Foam in wastewater requires one approach, and in a steam supply system — another. Therefore, there is no universal solution.
Consider the operating conditions
The effectiveness of a defoamer depends on the environment in which it operates. Pay attention to:
The pH of the environment. In alkaline or acidic environments, some reagents lose their activity. For example, silicone compounds are stable over a wide range, while organic compounds can be destroyed.
Temperature. If the process takes place at +100°C and above, a heat-resistant compound is required. For low temperatures, fluidity and non-freezing properties are important.
Presence of oils and fats. In environments with a high content of petroleum products, oil-soluble defoamers work better.
Suppression speed. In some cases, an instant reaction is required, while in others, a gradual action is sufficient.
Additionally
What type of defoamer should you choose?
There are two main types on the market today:
Silicone defoamers are powerful, long-lasting, and resistant to high temperatures. They are ideal for boilers, cooling systems, and industrial evaporators. The main thing is to make sure that their use is acceptable in your technological process, as traces of silicone can interfere with further processing (for example, in paint shops).
Silicone-free compounds — based on fats, alcohols, or modified surfactants. They are environmentally friendly, leave no traces, and are safe for biological systems. They are ideal for treatment facilities, the food industry, and housing and communal services.
The form of release is also important: emulsions are easy to dose in aqueous media, concentrates are economical for large volumes, and ready-made solutions are convenient for manual application.
How to introduce a defoamer?
The method of delivery affects the effectiveness. Large plants most often use automatic dosing via pumps — into the area of maximum foaming. It is important that the reagent does not separate and clog the lines.
Manual application is suitable for small facilities, but it requires constant monitoring. It is best to combine preventive application with rapid response to foam outbreaks.
Check documents and safety
Don’t skimp on safety. Make sure that the defoamer:
Has a safety data sheet (SDS) in Russian,
Complies with GOST or technical specifications,
Is approved for use in your industry,
Has passed the necessary certification, including TR TS 041/2017.
This is especially important for enterprises where the composition of effluents and emissions is controlled.
The best test is real-world testing
Theory is important. But the main criterion is whether the reagent works at your facility.
We offer free testing of our products:
We will select a defoamer for your conditions,
We will arrange delivery of a trial batch within Russia,
We will advise you on how to conduct the tests,
We will analyze the results and help prepare a commercial offer for the customer.
It often turns out that a properly selected domestic defoamer outperforms imported counterparts in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness, especially when adapted to Russian conditions.