Standard "Foaming Property" Laboratory Testing
D-Foam's standard laboratory testing program consists of examining the solution's optical,
foaming and interfacial properties, followed by microscopic examination.  A report that
identifies the qualitative presence of foam causing surfactants, foam inhibiting constituents,
and foam enhancing contaminants is generated from the results .
Foaming tendency testing demonstrates more
than just "how much foam is generated, and how
fast it breaks".  The texture of the foam (bubble
size variations), consistency of multiple foamings,
and separated phases in and on the foam column
are all critical observations.
SigmaPure System Prequalification Testing
We have developed a model that combines quantitative data from the standard testing
protocol to determine the effectiveness of the SigmaPure System's application.  The table
below shows the test results from operating amine unit solutions.  In each case the model was
compared to operating experience at the time of sampling, and found to accurately predict
the state of plant operation, and the SigmaPure system's efficacy where used.  The result is
that neither D-Foam or our customers have to guess about using the SigmaPure system.
0-2 are probably not producing measurable symptoms unless there are equipment problems such as
fouling, mechanical damage, etc.              
3-4 are producing measurable symptoms in the testing equipment, and need to be watched.                                
5-6 are, based on past experience, marginal at best, and may need operational intervention such as antifoam
addition or surfactant removal to stabilize the solution.                                                                                                      
6-10 are "problem" solutions, and most likely need immediate operational intervention and/or surfactant
removal to stabilize performance.
Prequalification testing has been instrumental in differentiating mechanical from chemical
foaming root causes.  On these occasions, we have been able to tell customers that,
according to our results, their solvents were not the cause of their symptoms.  They were able
to save the time and cost of installing the SigmaPure skid, and redirect their troubleshooting
efforts toward mechanical causes rather than guessing with the recirculating solution.


Microscopic examination seems to be unique to
D-Foam's testing protocol, but is invaluable in defining
the personality of the solution.  For example, why a
solution started foaming all of a sudden (plant feedback),
or why it did not foam in the lab and appeared to in the
plant.  We have also seen instances of "where did our
antifoam go, and why isn't it effective now" being
answered. (see Samples)