A division of F.J. MURPHY & SON, INC.

What is MIC?

Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) is a corrosion process influenced by the presence of microbes, bacteria and fungi, which are present in Fire Protection Systems (FPS).  MIC can grow and survive under a wide variety of environmental conditions which make it a dangerous threat to the integrity of FPS.  It has been estimated that 10% to 30% of corrosion in all piping in the country is caused by MIC*.

...........................................................................
In May, 1994 a MIC leak in a sprinkler pipe at an AlliedSignal corporate computer center in Phoenix, Arizona resulted in $25 million in damage, replacement costs, and lost productivity.  In April, 1998, patients narrowly escaped death in a fire at a nursing home in Iowa.  In the AlliedSignal case, MIC had caused unexpected leaks.  In the nursing home, MIC byproducts had completely blocked the fire sprinkler heads.  The system was activated, but due to blocked sprinkler heads water was prevented from getting to the fire. (more)
................................................................................
 

What are the
effects of MIC?

How is MIC
detected?

Advantages of MICScan™

MICScan™
Equipment

Contact Us

Articles of Interest

F.J. MURPHY & SON, INC.

Typical Clients

View our animated slide show!
 

Industry Links>>>

1800 Factory Avenue.
Springfield, IL 62702

Telephone: 217-528-4081  Facsimile: 217-528-4147  Email: john@fjmurphy.com

Office hours: Monday thru Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Central Time

* Tariq K. Bsharat, "Detection, Treatment and Prevention of Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion in Water Based Fire Protection Systems," National Fire Sprinkler Association, June 1998

Updated July 30, 2008