414 Pinks and Blues: Trace's Phosphate Redux
R. Trace Blackmore CWT, LEED AP, Master Facilitator, Keynote Speaker
Owner, Blackmore Enterprises, Industrial Water Treatment Expert, Weekly host of the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast, Keynote Speaker
Scaling is like debt—it’s always better to prevent it than to clean it up later.
Hello Scaling, UP! Nation!
Phosphate plays a crucial role in Industrial Water Treatment, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood chemicals. In this Pinks and Blues episode, Trace Blackmore revisits phosphate chemistry and its application in cooling systems, corrosion prevention, and scale inhibition.
Breaking Down Phosphate Chemistry
Phosphate exists in different forms, each with specific applications in water treatment.
Orthophosphate (PO4³⁻): The simplest and most reactive form, used for corrosion inhibition.
Polyphosphate: A longer chain of phosphate molecules that can hydrolyze into orthophosphate.
Organic Phosphates: Phosphate compounds bonded with organic molecules, often used in scale inhibition.
Total Phosphate: A combination of all phosphate types in a system.
Phosphate Testing – What Every Water Pro Should Know
Phosphate levels must be carefully monitored to maintain system integrity. Trace explains:
Why the orthophosphate test is the most reliable for phosphate analysis.
How to convert different phosphate forms to orthophosphate for testing.
The difference between the Molybdate Vanadate Method (yellow test) and the Ascorbic Acid Method (blue test).
The importance of accurate dilution and testing procedures to prevent measurement errors.
Challenges and Considerations in Phosphate Treatment
Biological Growth: Phosphate serves as a nutrient, promoting microbial growth if not controlled properly.
Environmental Regulations: Certain facilities may have phosphate discharge limits.
Calcium Phosphate Scaling: High temperatures and improper phosphate dosages can cause severe scaling issues.
Best Practices for Phosphate Management
Monitor carbon and alkalinity levels to determine the best phosphate formulation.
Use stability indices (e.g., Ryzner Stability Index, Langelier Saturation Index) to predict scale formation.
Adjust treatment strategies based on pH levels and system conditions to avoid unintended scale buildup.
Always verify environmental discharge limits when using phosphate-based treatments.
Mastering phosphate chemistry and testing techniques ensures better system performance, cost efficiency, and regulatory compliance. This episode empowers water professionals to optimize their approach to phosphate-based treatments. Tune in to learn practical strategies for optimizing phosphate levels, preventing scale, and ensuring system efficiency.
Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!
The Scaling UP! H2O Team
Timestamps
03:16 – Trace Blackmore shares the importance of Quarterly Planning for Business and Personal Goals
06:30 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals
08:20 – Water You Know with James McDonald
12:03 – Introduction to Phosphate and Its Role in Water Treatment
18:31 – Understanding Phosphate Forms: Orthophosphate, Polyphosphate, Organic Phosphate
21:32 – Phosphate as a Corrosion & Scale Inhibitor in Cooling Systems
34:33 – Testing Phosphate: Why the Orthophosphate Test is Key
51:37 – The Importance of Understanding Water Chemistry Before Selecting Treatment Plans
Quotes
“Phosphate is one of those things we all test for, but not everyone understands what it actually does in a system.”
“I’ve seen calcium phosphate scale dent on a concrete wall. You don’t want that happening inside your system.”
“If you don’t know where your system water is going after discharge, you could be in for a regulatory surprise.”
Connect with Scaling UP! H2O Podcast
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LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/
YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O
Click HERE to download Episode’s Discussion Guide
Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned
Ep 046 The One About Phosphate Testing
Ep 024 The One With All the Questions
Taylor Technologies Test Procedures: Phosphonate, Azole
AWT (Association of Water Technologies)
Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses
Water You Know with James McDonald
Question: What is the process called to evaluate the performance and efficiency of a water softener by taking regeneration water samples, measuring their salinity, and interpreting their results?
2025 Events for Water Professionals
Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.
scalinguph2o.com/414 is out!!!
Energy Advocate | PropTech Strategist | Smart Buildings Advisor | Board Member
5moThis episode of Scaling UP! H2O offers a valuable deep dive into phosphate chemistry in industrial water treatment. Trace Blackmore breaks down the different forms of phosphate—orthophosphate, polyphosphate, and organic phosphates—and their roles in corrosion prevention and scale inhibition. He emphasizes the importance of proper phosphate testing, explaining methods like the Molybdate Vanadate and Ascorbic Acid tests, and highlights the challenges of biological growth and environmental regulations. Trace's insight that "scaling is like debt—it’s better to prevent it than clean it up later" really resonates. By following best practices and staying ahead of potential issues, water professionals can ensure system efficiency, compliance, and cost savings. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the water treatment field!