Messer
(Austria)
A model co-operaration 
The company of Messer Austria (previously Griesheim) is a highly specialist corporation which produces various gases, used in a number of industries – for welding, anaesthetics in surgical theatres, and as inert gases.
The pipes used in the processing and transportation of the gases regularly became clogged with algae, and the company was very keen to find some way to reduce the amount of biocides and other chemicals needed to keep the pipes clear.
For Messer Austria, the idea of environmental protection is more than just an empty phrase, which is why they decided to install a Grander water revitalisation plant. Alois Wagner, responsible for labour safety and environmental protection at the company, noticed many positive changes immediately.
‘The initial problem,’ Wagner explains, ‘was that the algae and the limescale in the pipes were reducing the heat exchange between the pipelines and the cooling towers. The cooling water was too warm as a consequence, which incurred higher energy costs.
After the installation of the Grander system, maintenance work was also reduced which had an effect on the overall budget. Alois Wagner did the sums. ‘The investment came to around 7,850 Euros. We saved around 12,350 Euros in just one year. Since the maintenance costs also fell by 730 Euros, the installation was more than justified – quite apart from the fact that we now no longer have to use any biocides, which is very positive for us as an environmentally aware corporation.’
The technical data was checked in regular measurements, the tests carried out by independent authorities, and all results were recorded in writing. This allows for all the positive developments to be followed step by step. In conclusion, Wagner says, ‘The Grander System is a wonderful thing and we highly recommend it to everyone.’ | 