Page 53 - Alpha Tech Pet, Inc. - Distributor Support Binder (April 2013)

adequate flow of liquid through the sock. This weave allows microorganisms and some smaller bran particles
with microorganisms attached to pass from the sock to the sewer.
By using larger, un-ground particles of bran, the device simulates the action of a fixed film system whereby the
microbes attached to the bran particles a partially washed off and those that are more firmly attached are fed by
the organics in the waste stream continually washing over the bran. These attached organisms continue to divide
and slough off, seeding the system with new growth of microorganisms. Thus, this system provides a continuous
seeding to the targeted area of the line. This “BIO-SOCK™” must be replaced on a periodic basis due to
plugging of the sock by excessive growth within the sock and/or build-up of grease and particulate, and eventual
deterioration of the biodegradable woven sock.
By continuous seeding with the BIO-SOCK™ into gravity fed lines, common blockages caused by excessive
accumulations of grease can be virtually eliminated. Based on the extensive program required to design the “BIO-
SOCK™” and the success of this application technique in field applications, Novozymes patented this application
system (March 7, 1989, US patent number 4,810,385). For initial seeding, the following dosage system is
recommended. Initially, Novozymes recommends spraying BI-CHEM LC 2006RG, a liquid, high surfactant,
biological product, on surfaces of heavy buildup. Novozymes’ technical representatives recommend dosage rates
for BIO-SOCKS, based on size and frequency of replacement. These “BIO-SOCKS” are fastened by “clips ‘n
cords” supplied with the “BIO-SOCK”, to manhole ladders. (Generally, BIO-SOCKS are replaced every week or
two based on flow and severity of build-up; guidelines are published in product data sheets.) For lines with severe
buildup, BI-CHEM DC 2000GL in SoluPaks (water-soluble pouches) may also be added with initial dosage.
PRODUCT EFFECTIVENESS
With proper application, lines that habitually require cleaning every two months have remained clear for up to
one year. It is important too properly service these installations to make certain dosages are properly made. Lines
are generally monitored to determine if surcharges are occurring. Historically, when treated lines have become
occluded, the blockage has been determined to be caused by physical blockage not grease.
Novozymes’ bioaugmentation program for collection system maintenance has been demonstrated to be cost
effective compared to physical cleaning. Because these microorganisms continue to grow and work in the entire
system, bioaugmentation is also cost effective against use of solvents and degreasers. Unlike competing
technologies, this bioaugmentation program provides a benefit to the entire collection system from the point of
application to the waste treatment plant. The WTP benefits from decreased loading due to degradation activity
and from the conveyance of the suspended microorganisms to the WTP itself.
Novozymes’ unique technology is fully patented. In one of the first patents awarded on live microorganisms,
Novozymes patented the grease-degrading organism used in a consortium of microorganisms in BI-CHEM DC
2000GL 1979 US patent number 4,350,770, and, additionally; 1981 US patent number 4,288,545, and 1982 US
patent number 4,482,632. In1995 Novozymes Biologicals, Inc. was awarded a patent on BI-CHEM LC 2006RG
for use in line maintenance (US patent number 5,449,619). Novozymes, based on over ten years of research and
development has developed this unique patented bioaugmentation program. The microorganism strains and
applications have been optimized to provide a highly effective, technology for improved collection system
maintenance of gravity fed lines.
In addition to the obvious; benefits of cost effective maintenance, public relations are substantially improved by a
proactive approach to maintenance. This approach eliminates the incidents caused by grease blockage. With
every instance that is eliminated, traffic interruption, property damage, excavations, malodors, associated
business losses, and fear of health-related consequences would not inconvenience citizens. Public officials can
spend their public relations time recognizing the proactive departments that have made substantial improvements
rather than apologizing for the incidents, assuring the public of methods used to diminish exposure risk, and
planning for more costly engineering and regulatory resolutions.