Plate-type heat-exchangers are increasingly being used in the cooling systems of vessels. While these systems have numerous associated benefits, one disadvantage is decreased performance associated with the formation slime on the cooling surface of the heat-exchanger. A new cleaning system for plate-type heat exchangers involving the addition of powder made from insertion scallop shells and air to the cooling water has been developed. Evaluations of slime removal efficiency were shown to be affected by the flow of cooling water, concentration of shell powder, quantity of air injected, washing time, and decreased air-bubble size.