TVC stands for Total Viable Count. A TVC gives the number of viable aerobic mesophilic microorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts and moulds, in a sample. A TVC count is used as a general indicator of the extent of microbiological contamination in a sample.
Varies depending on how badly the system is microbially fouled. However, in general should be
at least once per month. The Sidestream® should be periodically cleaned out,
especially after a period of significant fouling, and all studs replaced. Ideally, from new the studs should be
checked monthly for numbers of sessile SRB and GHB. Observing the increase with time will indicate when
microbial control has been lost and when the biocide treatment regime should be re-optimised.
In general the temperature should be as close as possible (± 5°C) to the system temperature from
which the sample was removed. In seawater injection systems an incubation temperature
around 25 - 30°C is generally employed.
In production systems a range of temperatures may be encountered from riser to export
pipeline and from field to field so there may be practical problems. However, using the correct incubation
temperature is critical to obtaining a meaningful result.
For PRD (GHB) and for NRB the media should be incubated for 7 days at the correct temperature
(see above). For SRB media, incubation should be for 28 days. It is possible to get an interim result if
growth is detected during this period but the result reported should have had 28 days incubation.
Yes. Several courses on Industrial Microbiology and Hygiene Issues. One of the most popular
courses is our one day course "Bacterial Monitoring and Control in Offshore Process Systems"
which covers all aspects of offshore microbiology and monitoring techniques. The morning session covers
general microbiology issues and the afternoon session covers practical training and specific issues relevant
to bacterial monitoring and control. The course is designed for non microbiologists, offshore laboratory
chemists/technicians and oil industry staff who wish to obtain a general understanding of how microbes can
cause corrosion, sulphide production, biofilms, etc. which can affect injection and production rates.
More information about this course along with a booking form can be downloaded from our
form download page.
Otherwise, a course can be arranged by contacting Lyn Ferguson by phone 01224 706062 or by
email.
Our lab operates from 8am till 8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to
12 noon at weekends. Last sample drop off time is 6pm daily (evening
and weekend sample drop off is by special request).
