Industrial ozonation
The challenges of industrial water treatment
In industry, cooling circuits and thermal processes use large volumes of water.
These systems encourage the growth of microorganisms and biofilms that degrade performance, increase corrosion, and can pose health risks (Legionella).
Traditionally, chlorine or chemical biocides are used, but handling them involves risks and regulatory constraints.
Ozonation is emerging as a high-performance, automatable, and environmentally friendly water treatment solution.
Why ozone outperforms chlorine
- Stronger oxidant: eliminates bacteria, algae, and fungi
- No residues or chlorinated by-products (THMs, AOX)
- Improved thermal efficiency of towers
- Reduced water consumption (fewer blowdowns)
- Less maintenance and corrosion on equipment
Ozone acts directly in the circulating water, destroys organic matter, and prevents biofilms from reforming.
It also enhances brand image and strengthens compliance within CSR policies.
Focus: cooling towers and biofilms
Biofilms—matrices of bacteria and algae—promote corrosion and scale formation. They reduce heat transfer, increasing the energy consumption of installations.
Injecting ozone into the cooling loop removes these biofilms at the source. Ozonated water circulates throughout the system and acts on surfaces, piping, basins, and heat exchangers.
→ See also: industrial water treatment and the benefits and uses of ozonation
Ozone destruction torches: safety and residual gas removal
In certain processes, a fraction of undissolved ozone gas must be neutralized for operator safety.
Ozone destruction torches ensure thermal or catalytic destruction of residual gas before discharge.
- High-temperature operation (350–500 °C)
- Complete conversion O3 → O2
- High-resistance stainless-steel materials
- Optional automatic control of flow and destruction rate
ROI and environmental compliance
By replacing chemical biocides, ozone reduces:
- Reagent purchasing and storage costs
- Maintenance and rinsing operations
- Chemical discharges in effluents
Companies thereby improve their carbon footprint and meet ISO 14001 and ICPE requirements. An average ROI of 18 to 30 months is observed depending on installation size.
Oxytrading solutions for industry
Industrial ozonator 120 g/h – for process water and cooling tower treatment.
Industrial ozone destruction torch – safe neutralization of excess gas.
Further reading:
how an ozone generator works
ozonation of drinking water
Conclusion
Industrial ozonation enables continuous, residue-free disinfection of water circuits. It reduces corrosion, extends cooling tower service life, and improves energy performance. Oxytrading supports industrial sites with the design, integration, and maintenance of custom ozone systems.
Contact us today to assess feasibility and the energy savings potential of your installation.
Keywords: industrial ozone, cooling towers, biofilm, water treatment, disinfection, maintenance, Oxytrading