Welcome to our comprehensive guide to water treatment terminology. If you're new to the world of water and wastewater treatment, this glossary is here to help. We've compiled clear and straightforward definitions of essential terms and concepts that you'll encounter as you explore your options for purchasing a water treatment system.
Our goal is to make it easier for you to understand the technology and processes involved, so you can make informed decisions with confidence. Dive into the definitions below to get acquainted with the key terms that will guide you on your journey to effective water management.
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Absolute
In filtration, "absolute" specifies the precise particle size a filter can block, ensuring it captures 100% of particles larger than that size. For example, a one-micron absolute filter effectively retains all particles greater than one micron, providing rigorous filtration. This accuracy is essential in high-demand applications like water treatment and dust collection, where precise particulate removal is critical to meet stringent purity and safety standards.
Absolute Filter Rating
The absolute filter rating indicates that a filter can capture at least 99.9% of particles larger than a specified size, usually measured in microns. This rating guarantees that nearly all particles exceeding the defined size are trapped, delivering highly accurate and reliable filtration performance, crucial for sensitive processes in water treatment and dust collection.
Absorption
Absorption is the process by which one substance is taken up and incorporated into the interior of another. In water treatment, contaminants are absorbed into materials like activated carbon or soil, removing impurities from the environment. This contrasts with adsorption, where particles adhere to the surface of a material rather than being absorbed into its structure.
Acid
An acid is a substance that releases hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water, resulting in a pH below 7.0. Acids can dissolve metals, taste sour, and turn blue litmus paper red. They react with bases to form salts and water, and their corrosive properties necessitate careful handling in various applications, including water treatment.
Acid Demand
Acid demand refers to the amount of acid needed to lower the pH of a solution to a desired level. The Acid Demand Test measures this quantity, providing crucial data for adjusting and maintaining optimal pH levels in water treatment and dust collection systems, which is essential for efficient operation and chemical stability.
Acidity
Acidity measures a solution’s ability to neutralize bases, reflecting the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺). High acidity can cause corrosion and affect chemical reactions. Managing acidity is vital in water treatment to maintain proper pH balance, prevent damage to infrastructure, and ensure the effectiveness of treatment processes.
Activated Alumina
Activated alumina is a porous, highly adsorptive material derived from treated aluminum ore. It is used to remove contaminants like fluoride, arsenic, and other impurities from water and air. Its high adsorption capacity makes it effective in purification, and it can be regenerated by heating, restoring its adsorptive properties for repeated use.
Activated Carbon
Activated carbon is a specially treated form of carbon with an extensive surface area created by its network of tiny pores. It is widely used in water treatment and dust collection due to its ability to adsorb a wide range of contaminants. Activated carbon traps impurities, neutralizes pollutants, and improves water and air quality by effectively removing dissolved organic compounds, chlorine, and airborne particles.
Activated Silica
Activated silica is a negatively charged colloidal material produced by reacting sodium silicate with an acid or activator. It functions as a coagulant in water treatment processes, promoting the aggregation of fine particles. This aggregation enhances the efficiency of sedimentation and filtration, leading to clearer and cleaner water or air.
Adsorb
Adsorption is the process by which molecules, colloids, or particles adhere to the surface of a solid material, known as an adsorbent. In water treatment, adsorbents like activated carbon capture contaminants on their surface. In dust collection, adsorption helps trap airborne particles, improving air quality without chemically altering the contaminants.
Adsorbate
An adsorbate is a substance that accumulates on the surface of a solid or liquid, forming a thin layer. In water treatment and dust collection, adsorbates are typically impurities or pollutants that adhere to the surface of adsorbent materials, facilitating their removal from the water or air being treated.
Adsorbent
An adsorbent is a solid material capable of capturing liquids, gases, or suspended particles through the process of adsorption. Common adsorbents, such as activated alumina and activated carbon, are used extensively in water and air purification to remove impurities, thereby enhancing the quality and safety of the treated medium.
Adsorption
Adsorption is a process where liquids, gases, or particles adhere to the surface or pores of a solid material, called an adsorbent. In water and air purification, adsorption effectively removes contaminants by accumulating them on the adsorbent’s surface, thereby not altering the chemical structure of the contaminants.
Aeration
Aeration is a technique that increases the contact between air and a liquid, playing a critical role in water treatment and dust collection. It helps remove dissolved gases and volatile compounds, raises oxygen levels, and assists in oxidizing metals, which improves water quality and reduces airborne particles in various industrial and environmental processes.
Aeration Tank
An aeration tank is a vessel used to introduce air into water, increasing dissolved oxygen levels to support aerobic microorganisms in biological wastewater treatment. These tanks enhance water quality by promoting the oxidation of pollutants, aiding in the breakdown of organic material, and controlling odors, thus playing a crucial role in effective wastewater treatment processes.
Aerobic
The term "aerobic" describes processes or environments that require oxygen. Aerobic conditions are essential for the activity of certain bacteria and microorganisms, which break down organic matter through oxidation. This process is integral to water treatment, converting pollutants into less harmful substances and improving water quality.
Aerobic Bacteria
Aerobic bacteria are microorganisms that require oxygen to grow and decompose organic matter. In water treatment systems like activated sludge, these bacteria help break down pollutants into less harmful byproducts. In dust collection, they degrade airborne organic compounds, contributing to cleaner air by reducing potential contaminants.
Aggressive Water
Aggressive water refers to water with characteristics that accelerate the corrosion of metals, often due to factors such as low pH, high dissolved oxygen, or the presence of corrosive substances. This type of water can damage infrastructure and treatment systems, necessitating careful management and mitigation to protect against corrosion and maintain system integrity.
Air Check
An air check is a device used in water treatment and dust collection systems to allow the flow of water while preventing the entry of air. It ensures that air does not contaminate the system, maintaining optimal efficiency, especially in processes that require a controlled environment, such as in regenerant eductors.
Air Gap
An air gap is a vertical space between the outlet of a water pipe and the flood-level rim of a container. This design prevents backflow contamination by ensuring that wastewater cannot reenter the clean water supply. Plumbing codes typically require the air gap to be at least twice the diameter of the pipe to ensure safety and compliance.
Algae
Algae are simple, chlorophyll-containing organisms that often form green scum on stagnant water surfaces. Algae growth can cause taste and odor problems in water and reduce oxygen levels when they decompose. Control methods include chemical treatments like potassium permanganate in ponds or chlorination in water systems to manage algae proliferation.
Alkali
Alkali substances are compounds with a bitter taste, slippery feel, and the ability to turn red litmus paper blue. With a pH above 7, alkalis produce hydroxyl ions in water and neutralize acids. Common alkalis include hydroxides, carbonates, and bicarbonates of elements such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.
Alkalinity
Alkalinity measures a solution's ability to neutralize acids, expressed as calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). It indicates the presence of bicarbonates, carbonates, and hydroxides, which are crucial for maintaining pH balance and buffering capacity in water, helping to prevent drastic changes in acidity.
Anionic Flocculant
An anionic flocculant is a negatively charged chemical used to aggregate and bind particles in water treatment. It promotes the formation of larger clumps from fine particles, facilitating the separation of solids from liquids. This improves the efficiency of sedimentation and filtration processes, enhancing water clarity and quality.
Anode
In electrochemical cells, an anode is the positively charged electrode where oxidation occurs. In galvanic protection systems, metals like magnesium or zinc act as sacrificial anodes. They corrode preferentially, protecting other metals, such as in water heaters, from corrosion by oxidizing and sacrificing themselves.
Anoxic
"Anoxic" describes environments that lack free molecular oxygen but contain chemically bound oxygen, such as nitrates or nitrites. These conditions are essential for processes like denitrification in wastewater treatment, where bacteria use bound oxygen forms to convert nitrates into nitrogen gas, reducing nitrogen pollution.
ANSI
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is an organization that oversees the development and implementation of standards across various industries, including water treatment and engineering. ANSI standards ensure product quality, safety, and performance, facilitating consistency and reliability in technical and operational practices.
Antiscalant
An antiscalant is a chemical additive used to prevent the formation of scale in water systems such as boilers and cooling towers. It works by inhibiting the crystallization of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can form scale deposits, thereby maintaining system efficiency and extending equipment life.
Aqueous
The term "aqueous" refers to a solution or substance that is water-based. Aqueous solutions are crucial in many chemical reactions and biological processes, providing a medium for solutes to dissolve and interact. They are widely used in water treatment and other applications where water acts as a solvent.
Aquifer
An aquifer is a geological formation that stores and transmits groundwater. Aquifers supply water to wells and springs, making them vital sources of fresh water. They consist of permeable materials like sand, gravel, or fractured rock, allowing water to move through and be extracted for use.
Artesian
"Artesian" refers to groundwater confined under pressure between impermeable rock layers. An artesian well taps into this pressurized water, causing it to rise naturally to the surface without the need for pumping. This phenomenon occurs when the pressure in the aquifer is higher than the elevation of the wellhead.
ASME
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) sets codes and standards for engineering and manufacturing, including guidelines for water treatment systems. ASME standards ensure the safety, quality, and performance of mechanical devices and systems, supporting innovation and reliability in engineering practices.
Attrition
Attrition is the gradual wearing down of solid particles due to friction. In water treatment, attrition affects filter media and ion exchange materials during processes like backwashing and regeneration. This wear can impact their efficiency and lifespan, necessitating periodic replacement or maintenance.
Automatic Water Softener
An automatic water softener features controls that automatically initiate backwash and regeneration cycles based on preset intervals or water usage. This automation ensures a continuous supply of soft water, reducing manual intervention and enhancing the efficiency and convenience of water softening systems.
AWWA
The American Water Works Association (AWWA) is a professional organization promoting safe and sustainable water management practices. Most municipal water treatment plants are AWWA members, adhering to its standards and guidelines for water quality, which help ensure the safety and reliability of public water supplies.
Back Pressure
Back pressure is the resistance against the flow of water in a system, which can affect performance and efficiency. Effective management of back pressure is essential to maintaining optimal flow rates and ensuring the efficient operation of water distribution and treatment systems, preventing potential issues like blockages or reduced efficiency.
Backflow
Backflow is the reverse flow of water in a pipeline, which can introduce contaminants into the potable water supply. Preventing backflow is crucial for protecting drinking water quality, and devices like backflow preventers are used to ensure that contaminated water does not reenter clean water systems.
Backflow Preventer
A backflow preventer is a device installed in water lines to prevent the reverse flow of water, ensuring that contaminated water does not enter the clean water supply. This is essential for maintaining the safety and integrity of potable water systems by preventing backflow contamination.
Backwash
Backwashing is a process where water flows in reverse through a filter or ion-exchange medium to lift and flush out accumulated particles and debris. This cleaning method restores the effectiveness of the filtration or ion exchange medium by removing trapped contaminants, ensuring continued performance and efficiency.
Bacteria
Bacteria are unicellular microorganisms that reproduce by cell division. They can be both beneficial and harmful; in water treatment, harmful bacteria are typically eliminated through processes like chlorination and filtration to ensure water safety. Beneficial bacteria play roles in processes like biodegradation and nutrient cycling.
Bacteriostatic
Bacteriostatic refers to a property that inhibits the growth and reproduction of bacteria without killing them. For instance, silver-impregnated activated carbon prevents bacterial colonization on its surface, maintaining clean water without directly killing the bacteria, thus controlling bacterial growth.
Bactericide
A bactericide is a substance used to kill bacteria, essential in water treatment for eliminating harmful bacterial pathogens. Bactericides ensure the microbiological safety of drinking water and other water supplies by effectively destroying bacteria, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.
Balanced Water
Balanced water maintains a neutral pH, with a stable relationship among pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and temperature. This balance minimizes the risk of corrosion and scale formation in water systems, ensuring the longevity and efficiency of water treatment and distribution infrastructures.
Bar
A bar is a unit of pressure measurement equivalent to 14.5 pounds per square inch (psi) or approximately 0.987 standard atmospheres. It is commonly used to quantify pressure in various water treatment and distribution systems, providing a standard reference for system design and operation.
Base
A base is an alkali that releases hydroxide ions (OH⁻) when dissolved in water. Bases neutralize acids to form salts and water, typically taste bitter, feel slippery, and can turn litmus paper blue. They are used to adjust pH levels and maintain alkalinity in various water treatment processes.
Base Demand
Base demand is the amount of alkali required to raise the pH of a solution to a desired level. Determined through titration, it indicates the solution’s capacity to neutralize acids, which is important for controlling water chemistry and achieving the desired pH balance in water treatment.
Batch Operation
Batch operation is a method in which ion exchange resins treat a solution in a container. The solution is agitated, and the treated liquid is separated from the resin. This controlled process allows for targeted water treatment, offering flexibility and precision in handling various water quality parameters.
Bed
A bed is a layer of ion exchange resin or filter media contained within a column. In water treatment, it plays a crucial role in removing contaminants through ion exchange or filtration, facilitating the purification and conditioning of water by trapping and exchanging impurities.
Bed Depth
Bed depth refers to the vertical measurement of ion exchange resin or filter media within a column, expressed in inches. Proper bed depth is essential for effective filtration or ion exchange in water treatment systems, influencing the contact time and overall performance of the treatment process.
Bed Expansion
Bed expansion is the increase in volume of a resin or filter media bed during backwashing. This process separates particles and increases space between them, facilitating the removal of trapped debris and maintaining the filtration or ion exchange efficiency of the system.
Bicarbonate Alkalinity
Bicarbonate alkalinity refers to the presence of bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻) in a solution, contributing to the total alkalinity. It affects water chemistry and treatment processes by providing buffering capacity that helps maintain pH balance and stabilize the water against sudden changes in acidity.
Binders
Binders are chemicals used to hold short fibers together in cartridge filters. They provide structural integrity and enhance the efficiency of the filtration process by maintaining the form and stability of the filter media, ensuring consistent performance and durability of the filter.
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) measures the amount of oxygen consumed by microorganisms while decomposing organic matter in water over a specific period. BOD indicates the level of organic pollution in water, providing an important parameter for assessing water quality and the effectiveness of wastewater treatment processes.
Biocide
A biocide is a chemical agent used to eliminate or inhibit the growth of harmful living organisms in water, such as bacteria, fungi, and algae. Essential in water treatment systems, biocides help control microbial contamination, ensuring the treated water remains free from pathogens and biofilms, thereby maintaining water quality and system hygiene.
Biodegradable
A material is considered biodegradable if it can be decomposed by natural biological processes, typically involving microorganisms like bacteria. Biodegradable substances, such as certain detergents and sewage, break down into simpler, non-toxic forms, minimizing their environmental impact and facilitating natural recycling processes.
Biological Oxidation
Biological oxidation is the process in which microorganisms use dissolved oxygen to break down organic substances in wastewater. This process converts organic pollutants into carbon dioxide, water, and cellular biomass, playing a critical role in the biological treatment and purification of wastewater, thus enhancing water quality.
Birm
Birm is a filtration media composed of manganese dioxide-coated aluminum silicate. It acts as an oxidizing catalyst in water filters, effectively reducing iron and manganese levels by facilitating their oxidation and subsequent filtration, thus improving the water's taste, odor, and appearance.
Blinding
Blinding refers to the clogging of membrane pores in filtration systems by a gel-like substance, which significantly reduces filtration efficiency. To restore proper function and maintain system performance, the membrane must be cleaned or replaced to remove the obstructive material and resume effective filtration.
Blowdown
Blowdown is the process of removing water with high concentrations of dissolved solids from a system. This procedure is essential to maintain water quality, prevent scale formation, and reduce corrosion in water treatment systems, ensuring efficient and reliable operation by managing contaminant levels.
BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand)
BOD, or Biochemical Oxygen Demand, measures the amount of oxygen required by microorganisms to decompose organic matter in water. This test indicates the level of organic pollution and is used to assess the organic load in wastewater, providing a crucial metric for water quality evaluation and treatment efficiency.
Bone Char
Bone char is a carbon-rich material produced by carbonizing animal bones. It functions as a selective anion exchanger, effectively removing fluoride and arsenic from water. Bone char's unique adsorption properties contribute to water purification, making it a valuable material in ensuring water safety and quality.
Brackish Water
Brackish water contains dissolved solids in concentrations between 1,000 and 15,000 ppm, representing a mix of fresh and saltwater. Due to its intermediate salinity, brackish water requires specialized treatment to be suitable for consumption or industrial use, often involving desalination or other purification processes.
Breakthrough
Breakthrough occurs when unabsorbed ions appear in the output from an ion exchange unit, signaling that the ion exchange resin has become saturated. This indicates the need for resin regeneration to restore the unit's ion exchange capacity and maintain effective contaminant removal in water treatment.
Brine
Brine is a concentrated salt solution used in various industrial processes and the regeneration of ion exchange water softeners. It plays a critical role in recharging the ion exchange resin, restoring its capacity to soften water by facilitating the exchange of sodium ions with hardness ions like calcium and magnesium.
Brine Ejector
A brine ejector is a device that draws brine from a storage tank and injects it into a water treatment unit. It is used primarily for the regeneration of ion exchange resins in water softeners, enabling the efficient and automated replenishment of the resin's ion exchange capacity.
Brine Tank
A brine tank is a storage container that holds a salt and water mixture used to create brine for the regeneration of water softeners. The brine solution recharges the ion exchange resin, maintaining the system's ability to soften water and ensuring consistent performance in reducing water hardness.
Bromine
Bromine is a chemical sanitizer used in water treatment to control bacteria and algae. As an alternative to chlorine, bromine is particularly effective in pools and spas for maintaining clean and safe water, offering advantages such as better stability in warmer water and reduced chlorine-like odor.
Buffer
A buffer is a substance that stabilizes pH levels in a solution, preventing significant changes in acidity or alkalinity. Buffers are crucial in water treatment to maintain a consistent pH balance, which is essential for the optimal performance of chemical processes and the stability of treatment systems.
Bulking Sludge
Bulking sludge is a condition in activated sludge treatment where the sludge expands excessively and fails to settle properly. This issue is caused by high suspended solids content or imbalanced treatment conditions, negatively impacting treatment efficiency and potentially leading to system disruptions.
Bypass
A bypass is a valve or connection that allows untreated water to flow around a water treatment system during maintenance or regeneration. Bypasses ensure a continuous water supply while the primary treatment system is offline, allowing for uninterrupted water availability and operational flexibility.
Calcite
Calcite, or calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), is a finely ground form of limestone used in water treatment to neutralize acidic water and raise its pH. This neutralization process helps prevent pipe corrosion and enhances the effectiveness of other water treatment methods by balancing the water's alkalinity.
Calcium
Calcium is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth's crust, commonly present in water as a dissolved solid. In water treatment, calcium contributes to hardness, leading to scale formation and the development of insoluble soap curds, necessitating water softening processes to mitigate these effects.
Calcium Carbonate Equivalent
Calcium carbonate equivalent is a standard measure used to express various forms of water hardness and other salts in terms of their calcium carbonate equivalents. This measure allows for the comparison of mineral concentrations with different weights, facilitating calculations for water treatment and chemical analysis.
Calcium Hardness
Calcium hardness refers to the concentration of calcium salts dissolved in water, contributing to the overall hardness of the water. Understanding calcium hardness is important for assessing the potential for scale formation and evaluating the effectiveness of water softening processes in water treatment systems.
Capacity
Capacity in ion exchange systems, such as softeners or deionizers, refers to the amount of ions that the exchange material can adsorb. It is measured in units like kilograins per cubic foot or gram-milliequivalents per gram and indicates the medium's ability to remove contaminants, often rated by flow rates and volume.
Carbon Dioxide
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a naturally occurring gas absorbed by water from the atmosphere or through organic decay. In water, CO₂ forms weak carbonic acid, which lowers pH and increases corrosiveness. It is commonly found in well water and rainwater and must be managed to maintain water quality.
Carcinogen
A carcinogen is a substance capable of causing cancer in living tissue. Carcinogens include chemical, physical, or biological agents that can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of malignant tumors, posing significant health risks in water treatment and environmental contexts.
Cathodic Protection
Cathodic protection is a technique to prevent the electrolytic corrosion of metal structures, especially those underground or underwater, by applying an electric current. This current makes the structure act as the cathode instead of the anode in an electrolytic cell, thus reducing corrosion rates and prolonging the lifespan of metallic infrastructures like pipelines and storage tanks.
Cation
A cation is a positively charged ion. In water treatment processes, cations are attracted to negatively charged surfaces or ion exchange resins, facilitating their removal. This principle is essential in methods like water softening, where calcium and magnesium cations are exchanged for sodium or hydrogen ions to reduce water hardness.
Cationic Flocculant
A cationic flocculant is a positively charged, high molecular weight polymer used in water treatment to aggregate suspended solids. By promoting particle aggregation, these flocculants enhance the efficiency of sedimentation and filtration processes, leading to improved removal of contaminants and clearer water.
Caustic Soda
Caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), is a strong alkaline compound used to regenerate anion exchange resins in deionization systems. It helps restore the resin's capacity to remove impurities from water by replacing consumed hydroxide ions, thereby maintaining effective water purification.
Channeling
Channeling occurs when water or regenerant flows unevenly through a media bed, taking the path of least resistance rather than distributing uniformly. This can be caused by media fouling, poor system design, low flow rates, or insufficient backwashing, leading to reduced efficiency in filtration or ion exchange processes.
Chemical Feeder
A chemical feeder is a mechanical device that injects chemicals into a water system in proportion to the water flow. This ensures consistent dosing for various treatment processes such as disinfection, pH adjustment, or nutrient addition, maintaining optimal water quality and treatment efficacy.
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) is an analytical test that measures the amount of oxygen required to oxidize all organic and oxidizable inorganic substances in water. COD is a key indicator of water pollution, reflecting the concentration of pollutants and the strength of contaminants that demand oxygen in the water.
Chemical Solution Feeder
A chemical solution feeder is a pump designed to accurately meter and inject chemicals, such as chlorine or polyphosphates, into a water supply system. It ensures precise dosing to maintain water quality, control pH levels, and prevent corrosion or biological growth.
Chemical Stability
Chemical stability refers to the ability of ion exchange resins and other materials to resist changes and degradation when exposed to aggressive chemical solutions. Maintaining chemical stability is crucial for the longevity and effectiveness of resins in water treatment processes.
Chloramine
Chloramine is a compound formed by the reaction of chlorine with ammonia. It serves as a disinfectant in municipal water supplies, providing a longer-lasting residual effect than free chlorine and producing fewer harmful by-products, though it is more challenging to remove from water systems.
Chloramines
Chloramines are a group of chemical compounds created by the reaction between chlorine and ammonia. They are used in water disinfection for their prolonged effectiveness and reduced formation of harmful by-products like trihalomethanes, commonly used in municipal water treatment.
Chlorination
Chlorination is the process of adding chlorine to water, sewage, or industrial waste to disinfect and achieve other effects such as oxidation or odor control. It is widely used to eliminate pathogens, control biological growth, and oxidize harmful substances, thereby ensuring safe and clean water.
Chlorinator
A chlorinator is a mechanical device that introduces chlorine gas, pellets, or solutions into a water supply. It ensures precise and controlled dosing of chlorine for effective disinfection, making it a key component in water treatment systems.
Chlorine
Chlorine is a halogen element used as a disinfectant in water treatment. It effectively kills bacteria, algae, and other pathogens. As a greenish-yellow gas with a pungent odor, chlorine can form toxic by-products, necessitating careful handling and monitoring in treatment processes.
Chlorine Demand
Chlorine demand refers to the amount of chlorine consumed by organic matter and other substances in water before a residual amount can be detected. This measure indicates the level of contaminants that react with chlorine and helps determine the appropriate dosage for disinfection.
Chlorine, Combined
Combined chlorine is chlorine that has reacted with ammonia or organic pollutants to form compounds like chloramines. These compounds are less effective as disinfectants compared to free chlorine and require monitoring and management in water treatment systems.
Chlorine, Free
Free chlorine is the chlorine available in water to kill bacteria and algae. It has not reacted with other substances, making it the active form of chlorine for disinfection purposes. Monitoring free chlorine levels is crucial for effective water sanitation.
Clean In Place (CIP)
Clean In Place (CIP) is a method used to clean the internal surfaces of pipes, vessels, and equipment without disassembly. CIP systems are essential in industries where maintaining hygiene and cleanliness is critical, allowing for efficient and thorough cleaning processes.
Coagulant
A coagulant is a substance, such as alum, that facilitates the aggregation of fine particles in water by forming a gelatinous precipitate. This process helps to settle and filter out particles, improving the clarity and quality of water in treatment systems.
Coagulation
Coagulation is the process of destabilizing and aggregating colloidal particles in water by neutralizing their electric charges. This facilitates their removal through clarification and filtration, making coagulation a crucial step in water treatment for achieving cleaner water.
Code
A code is a set of regulations established by authoritative bodies governing standards and practices in water treatment, construction, and safety. Codes ensure compliance, protect public health, and provide guidelines for industry practices and environmental protection.
Coliform Bacteria
Coliform bacteria are microorganisms commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. They are used as indicators of fecal contamination in water, signaling the possible presence of pathogenic organisms and the need for water quality testing and treatment.
Coliform Organisms
Coliform organisms are bacteria indicating fecal pollution in water. They serve as a standard measure for detecting potential contamination by harmful microorganisms, providing a basis for assessing water safety and sanitation.
Colloid
A colloid consists of very fine solid particles that are larger than molecules but small enough to remain suspended in water without settling. Colloids range in size from 0.001 to 0.1 microns and often require coagulation for effective removal from water.
Colloidal Matter
Colloidal matter is a gelatinous or mucinous substance suspended in water that can pass through fine sediment filters. Special treatment methods are often needed to remove colloidal matter due to its fine size and persistence in water systems.
Color Throw
Color throw refers to the discoloration of water passing through filtration or ion exchange media. It indicates the presence of substances like metallic ions, humus, tannins, or industrial wastes and may result from flushing colored organic intermediates or other contaminants.
Combined Sewer
A combined sewer system is designed to transport both sanitary sewage and stormwater runoff in a single pipe. It collects waste from homes, businesses, and precipitation, channeling it to treatment facilities. During heavy rainfall, these systems may overflow, leading to untreated discharges into water bodies, highlighting the need for careful management.
Compaction
Compaction refers to the reduction in flux resulting from the compression of reverse osmosis or ultrafiltration membranes under applied pressure. This process decreases membrane performance over time, leading to reduced efficiency in separating contaminants from water.
Compensated Hardness
Compensated hardness is a calculated value that takes into account the relative concentrations of magnesium, calcium, and sodium in water. This metric helps evaluate the effectiveness of water softeners by adjusting the apparent hardness to reflect the impact of these ions on the removal process.
Composite Sample
A composite sample is a collection of wastewaters taken over a period, often several hours, to represent varying flow rates and characteristics. This method provides a comprehensive analysis of wastewater conditions, allowing for accurate laboratory testing and better understanding of treatment needs.
Concentrate
In crossflow filtration, the concentrate is the portion of the feed stream that retains ions, organics, and suspended particles rejected during the process. It is typically the residue or rinse water from systems like reverse osmosis units, containing concentrated impurities.
Condensate
Condensate is water that has condensed from steam. It is often recycled in industrial processes or used in water systems where high purity is required, minimizing waste and conserving resources.
Conductivity
Conductivity measures water's ability to conduct electrical current, directly proportional to the concentration of dissolved ions. It is measured in siemens (mhos), and high conductivity indicates a high ionic content, which is crucial for monitoring water quality.
Contact Time
Contact time, also known as retention time, is the duration water stays in contact with an oxidizer, regenerant, or treatment media. Adequate contact time is essential for effective treatment, ensuring that chemical reactions or contaminant removal processes are completed efficiently.
Contaminant
A contaminant is any physical, chemical, biological, or radiological substance introduced into water that degrades its quality. Contaminants interfere with the water's intended use, making it unsafe for consumption, industrial processes, or environmental health.
Contamination
Contamination refers to the introduction of harmful substances into water, degrading its quality. This addition reduces the water’s value and usability by introducing pollutants that can negatively impact health and environmental quality.
Co-precipitation
Co-precipitation is a water treatment process that uses a compound to aid in the precipitation of otherwise soluble substances. Common co-precipitants, like iron, aluminum, calcium, and magnesium, help form insoluble compounds, facilitating their removal from the water.
Corporation Cock
A corporation cock is a stopcock installed in the street water main, providing a service connection to a house. It controls the flow of water from the main to the property, allowing for maintenance and regulation of water supply.
Corrosion
Corrosion is the gradual destruction of metals through electrochemical reactions with their environment. Commonly affecting iron and steel, corrosion leads to rust and compromises the structural integrity and functionality of metal components.
Corrosion Inhibitor
A corrosion inhibitor is a chemical additive used in water systems to minimize or control the corrosion of metals. It prolongs the lifespan of pipes, tanks, and equipment by forming a protective barrier or by neutralizing corrosive agents.
Critical Bed Depth
Critical bed depth is the minimum depth required for an adsorbent bed to effectively contain the mass transfer zone. It ensures sufficient contact between water and the adsorbent material for efficient contaminant removal.
Cross Connection
A cross connection is a physical link between two separate piping systems, one containing potable water and the other containing non-potable water. Such connections can lead to contamination if pressure differences cause backflow, allowing pollutants to enter the clean water supply.
Cross Linkage
Cross linkage involves bonding linear polymers into a resinous product, often using divinylbenzene (DVB). The degree of crosslinking affects the resin's resistance to chemical oxidation, with typical softening resins featuring around 8% crosslinking to enhance durability.
Crossflow
Crossflow is a separation process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to separate fluid components through pressure and flow. It is commonly used in reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration systems to remove contaminants while allowing permeate to pass through.
Cryptosporidium
Cryptosporidium is a waterborne protozoan that forms cysts and can cause acute gastrointestinal illness in humans. It is resistant to conventional disinfection methods like chlorine and UV light but can be removed effectively using one-micron filtration.
CTA (Cellulose Triacetate)
Cellulose triacetate (CTA) is a material used to manufacture reverse osmosis membranes. CTA membranes are known for their durability and efficiency in filtering out impurities from water, making them a popular choice in various filtration applications.
Cyanuric Acid
Cyanuric acid is a chemical used in swimming pools to stabilize chlorine. It prevents chlorine decomposition from ultraviolet (UV) light, extending its effectiveness as a disinfectant and maintaining proper sanitation levels.
Cycle
A cycle in ion exchange refers to the complete sequence of operations, including regeneration, rinsing, exhaustion, backwashing, and reactivation. Each cycle restores the ion exchange material's capacity to remove contaminants from water.
Cycles of Concentration
Cycles of concentration describe the ratio of dissolved solids in boiler or cooling water compared to that in the makeup (feed) water. It indicates the extent of concentration achieved through evaporation or other processes, guiding water management strategies.
Dealkalization
Dealkalization is the process of reducing the alkalinity in water, typically through chemical feed systems and cation-anion exchange. This treatment lowers the concentration of alkaline substances, making the water less basic and more suitable for various applications.
Deashing
Deashing involves the removal of inorganic salts from a solution using ion exchange resins. The process adsorbs both cations and anions that form these salts, effectively purifying the solution by eliminating dissolved inorganic constituents.
Dechlorination
Dechlorination is the process of removing excess or free chlorine from water. Typically achieved through adsorption using activated carbon or catalytic filter media, it ensures the water is free from harmful chlorine residues and safe for use.
Decrosslinkage
Decrosslinkage refers to the degradation of an ion exchange resin due to the breakdown of its crosslinking polymers. This damage, caused by exposure to chlorine, ozone, hydrogen peroxide, or high temperatures, results in increased moisture content and swelling, reducing the resin's effectiveness.
Degassing
Degassing is the removal of dissolved gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, hydrogen sulfide, and oxygen from water. This can be achieved by reducing pressure below atmospheric levels or passing air through the water, improving its quality and stability.
Deionization
Deionization eliminates ionized minerals and salts from a solution through a two-phase ion exchange process. Positively charged ions are replaced with hydrogen ions using a cation exchange resin, while negatively charged ions are swapped for hydroxide ions with an anion exchange resin, combining to form pure water.
Delta P
Delta P is the pressure differential, measured in pounds per square inch (psi), between the inlet and outlet of a water conditioning system. It indicates the resistance to flow within the system and helps assess its operational efficiency, guiding maintenance and optimization efforts.
Demineralization
Demineralization involves the removal of minerals from water through processes such as deionization, reverse osmosis, or distillation. This process produces high-purity water by eliminating dissolved mineral salts and other impurities, making it essential in industries that require extremely clean water, such as pharmaceuticals, electronics manufacturing, and power generation.
Demulsifier
A demulsifier is a chemical additive used to break down emulsions, particularly those involving stabilized oil in water. It disrupts the stabilizing agents within the emulsion, facilitating the separation of oil from water in treatment processes, which is crucial in oil refining, wastewater treatment, and other industrial applications.
Denitrification
Denitrification is a biological wastewater treatment process that converts nitrites (NO₂⁻) into nitrogen gas (N₂), effectively removing nitrogen from water. This process reduces nitrogen pollution and improves water quality by preventing excess nitrogen from contributing to nutrient pollution in aquatic environments.
Desalination
Desalination is the process of removing dissolved inorganic salts and other impurities from saline water to produce fresh, potable water. Common techniques include reverse osmosis, distillation, and electrodialysis, which are vital for providing drinking water in arid regions and for industrial applications requiring low-salinity water.
Detergent
A detergent is a substance with cleaning properties that include soaps, synthetic detergents, solvents, and abrasives. Synthetic detergents, known as surfactants, have chemical properties distinct from soap but perform similar functions, such as foaming and cleaning, making them effective for various industrial and household cleaning applications.
Dewatering
Dewatering is the process of removing free water from sludge or slurry to produce a high-solids cake. Common equipment used for dewatering includes recessed chamber filter presses, belt presses, centrifuges, rotary fan presses, and vacuum presses, which are essential in reducing the volume and weight of waste for disposal or further treatment.
Dialysis
Dialysis is a separation process where components of a solution are separated by diffusion through a semi-permeable membrane. This membrane allows certain ions or molecules to pass while blocking others, used to purify or concentrate substances in applications like medical dialysis and chemical processing.
Diffused Air
Diffused air refers to a method of aeration where air is finely dispersed into water to increase dissolved oxygen levels. This technique is used in water treatment to enhance biological activity, promote the breakdown of organic matter, and improve overall water quality by increasing oxygenation.
Digestion
Digestion is the biochemical process where organic matter is broken down into simpler organic compounds and minerals. This process is crucial in wastewater treatment and the management of organic waste, as it stabilizes and reduces the volume of waste, making it easier to handle and dispose of.
Disinfection
Disinfection is the process of destroying harmful bacteria and pathogens in a water supply or distribution system. Common methods include chlorine, ultraviolet light, and ozone, which are used to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water by eliminating microbial contaminants.
Dispersant
A dispersant is a substance added to a suspension to enhance particle separation and prevent settling or clumping. Dispersants help maintain the uniform distribution of particles in a mixture, improving stability and performance in various applications such as water treatment, coatings, and lubricants.
Dissolved Air Flotation
Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) is a method used to remove oil and suspended solids from water by introducing dissolved air. The air forms bubbles that attach to the solids, causing them to float to the surface for removal, effectively clarifying the water and separating contaminants.
Dissolved Air Flotation Clarifier
A Dissolved Air Flotation Clarifier is equipment that uses dissolved air to separate suspended solids from water. It is particularly effective for removing solids with densities lower than water, facilitating their flotation to the surface for collection and removal, enhancing water clarity.
Dissolved Oxygen
Dissolved oxygen refers to the concentration of gaseous oxygen (O₂) dissolved in water, usually measured in milligrams per liter (mg/L). Dissolved oxygen levels are critical for the survival of aquatic life and are a key indicator of water quality, affecting processes such as respiration and decomposition.
Dissolved Solids
Dissolved solids are particles suspended in water or sewage that cannot be removed by standard laboratory filtration methods. These solids contribute to the overall solid content of the water and often require specialized treatment methods, such as reverse osmosis or deionization, for their removal.
Distillation
Distillation is a purification process where water is boiled, and the steam is condensed on a cool surface, then collected. Most contaminants do not vaporize and are left behind, resulting in nearly pure water free from salts and many organic compounds, commonly used for producing high-purity water.
Dolomite
Dolomite is a mineral composed of calcium and magnesium carbonate, often found in compact limestone and marble deposits. It is used in various industrial applications and contributes to the hardness of natural water supplies by dissolving and releasing calcium and magnesium ions.
Drain Line
A drain line is a conduit from a water conditioning unit designed to carry away backwash water, regeneration wastes, and rinse water by gravity flow to a drain or waste system. This line is essential for the proper disposal of effluent from water treatment processes.
Drinking Water Standards
Drinking Water Standards are regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that establish maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for substances in drinking water. These standards ensure water safety and quality for public health, with secondary standards addressing aesthetic qualities like taste, odor, and appearance.
DWV
DWV stands for Drainage, Waste, and Vent. It refers to a system of copper or plastic tubing used in plumbing to drain wastewater and vent sewer gases, ensuring the proper flow and ventilation in residential and commercial plumbing systems.
Eductor
An eductor is a device that uses the Venturi effect to draw in (educt) air or liquid through an opening at the throat. Commonly used to introduce brine into a water softener, it creates a suction effect that facilitates the mixing of the brine with water for regeneration purposes.
Efficiency
Efficiency in ion exchange refers to the performance measure of an ion exchanger, typically expressed as the amount of regenerant required to remove a specific quantity of adsorbed material. It is often quantified as pounds of regenerant per kilogram of removed ions, indicating the system's operational effectiveness.
Effluent
Effluent is the outflow from a water treatment device or system, often referring to the treated or processed water exiting the system. It typically requires monitoring to ensure it meets environmental discharge standards.
Electro Deionization
Electro Deionization (EDI) is a water treatment method that combines ion exchange membranes and resin with electrical current to remove dissolved ions from water. EDI achieves deionization and high-purity water production, often used in applications requiring ultrapure water.
Electrodialysis
Electrodialysis is a separation process that uses semi-permeable membranes and electrical current to selectively move ions through the membranes. This process effectively removes ions from water, used in desalination and water purification to reduce the ionic content of the treated water.
Electrolyte
An electrolyte is a substance that dissociates or ionizes in water to form a solution capable of conducting an electric current. Electrolytes include acids, bases, and salts, and are essential in processes like electrolysis and in maintaining biological functions.
Element
In water treatment systems, an element often refers to a membrane element used in separation processes. These elements are key components in systems such as reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration, where they filter out contaminants and produce purified water.
Elution
Elution is the process of removing adsorbed ions from an ion exchange material by introducing a solution with a higher concentration of competing ions. This solution washes out the adsorbed material, effectively regenerating the ion exchange resin for continued use.
Emulsion Breaker
An emulsion breaker is a chemical additive used to destabilize and separate emulsified oils from water. It is commonly employed in water treatment to break down stable emulsions, allowing for easier removal of oils and other immiscible contaminants.
End-Point
The end-point in water conditioning systems, such as softeners or deionizers, is the stage where the treated water quality falls below acceptable levels. This indicates the need for system regeneration or replacement to maintain water quality standards.
Escherichia Coliform
Escherichia Coliform is a species of bacteria naturally found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Its presence in water is used as an indicator of fecal contamination and potential pathogenic bacteria, making it a key parameter in water quality monitoring.
Eutrophication
Eutrophication is the process where a body of water becomes enriched with nutrients, leading to excessive plant growth and oxygen depletion. Often accelerated by human activities, such as agricultural runoff, eutrophication can result in harmful algal blooms and deteriorated water quality.
Exchange Sites
Exchange sites are specific locations on ion exchange resin beads where ions are held and can be exchanged with other ions in a passing solution. These sites, also known as functional groups, are crucial for the ion exchange process in water treatment systems.
Exchange Velocity
Exchange velocity refers to the speed at which one ion is replaced by another on an ion exchange resin. This rate affects the efficiency and capacity of ion exchange processes in water treatment systems. Faster exchange velocities lead to quicker ion removal and regeneration cycles, optimizing the system’s performance and throughput, crucial for maintaining water quality and treatment efficacy. Effective management of exchange velocity ensures that the ion exchange system operates efficiently, removing contaminants and maintaining the desired ion balance.
Exhaustion
Exhaustion refers to the state where an adsorbent material or ion exchanger, such as activated carbon or a water softener, can no longer effectively remove contaminants or ions. This condition is identified by specific criteria, such as increased contaminant levels in the output or reduced water quality, indicating the need for regeneration or replacement to restore the system's effectiveness.
Extended Aeration
Extended aeration is a variant of the activated sludge process used in wastewater treatment, incorporating aerobic digestion of sludge within the aeration system. This method enhances treatment efficiency by prolonging the exposure of sludge to aerobic conditions, promoting further breakdown of organic matter and improving overall water quality.
Feed
Feed is the input solution supplied to a water treatment system, containing contaminants or impurities that need to be removed. The composition of the feed determines the treatment process requirements and influences the selection of treatment technologies to achieve the desired water quality.
Ferric Chloride
Ferric chloride (FeCl₃) is a metal salt used as a coagulant in water clarification processes and as an etching agent in chemical applications. It helps aggregate fine particles into larger clumps that can be more easily removed during sedimentation or filtration, improving the clarity and quality of the treated water.
Ferric Iron
Ferric iron refers to iron in its trivalent state (Fe³⁺), commonly present as gelatinous ferric hydroxide or ferric oxide particles in water. This form of iron often causes "rusty" water and can be removed by filtration methods, which effectively trap and eliminate these suspended particles from the water supply.
Ferrous Iron
Ferrous iron is iron in its divalent state (Fe²⁺), typically present as dissolved ferrous hydroxide in water, resulting in a clear solution known as clear water iron. This form of iron can be removed using ion-exchange methods, which replace the ferrous ions with non-metallic ions to purify the water.
Filox-R
Filox-R is a naturally occurring ore used as a catalytic filter medium for removing iron, hydrogen sulfide, and manganese from water. Its performance is enhanced by oxidizers such as chlorine or potassium permanganate, which aid in the oxidation and filtration of these contaminants, improving water quality.
Filter
A filter is a device designed to clean water by removing contaminants such as iron, silt, and organic matter before it is supplied to consumers. Filters come in various forms, including mechanical, adsorptive, oxidizing, or neutralizing, and can be found as media beds or cartridge types, each suited to different filtration needs.
Filter Cake
Filter cake refers to the accumulated particles collected on the surface of a filter, forming a compacted layer. This layer is typically removed periodically to maintain the filter's efficiency and ensure the continued removal of contaminants from the water or air being treated.
Filter Press
A filter press is a device used to dewater solids by applying pressure to sludge within a series of filter plates and cloths, forming a compacted cake of solids. Also known as a Recessed Chamber or Plate and Frame Filter Press, it is commonly used in industrial applications to manage and reduce sludge volume.
Filter-Ag
Filter-Ag is a tradename for an aluminum silicate (pumicite) granular product used as a general-purpose filter medium. It is effective in removing suspended solids in the 20-40 micron range and operates with a lower backwash rate compared to other filter media, making it efficient for various water treatment applications.
Filtrate
Filtrate is the portion of the feed stream that has passed through a membrane or filter in filtration processes, such as reverse osmosis or ultrafiltration. It represents the purified water that has been cleaned of suspended solids and other impurities, ready for further use or consumption.
Filtration
Filtration is the process of removing suspended solids from water by passing it through a porous medium. This can be accomplished using media beds or cartridge devices, which capture and eliminate contaminants, improving the clarity and quality of the water.
Fines
Fines are particles smaller than the desired size in ion exchange or filtration materials. They can cause excessive pressure drop in the system and reduce the efficiency of filtration or ion exchange processes, necessitating periodic cleaning or replacement of the filtering media.
Fixture Count
Fixture count is the total number of plumbing fixtures in a building, used to estimate peak flow rates and size equipment, particularly in commercial settings. This count helps in designing systems that can handle the expected water demand and drainage requirements effectively.
Fixture Unit
A fixture unit is an arbitrary unit assigned to different plumbing fixtures to estimate flow rate and drainage capacity requirements. This unit aids in the design and sizing of plumbing systems, ensuring they can handle the anticipated load without overloading the infrastructure.
Flash Distillation
Flash distillation is a process where hot water is introduced into a low-pressure chamber, causing rapid vaporization (flashing) into steam. This method is used in water distillation to separate and purify water from dissolved substances by exploiting the differences in boiling points.
Floc
Floc refers to the aggregation of fine particles into a gelatinous mass, which can be more easily removed from water during treatment. This process aids in the clarification of water by forming larger clumps that settle out or are filtered out more effectively than individual particles.
Flocculant
A flocculant is a high molecular weight, water-soluble polymer that helps agglomerate solids in water, improving the efficiency of solid removal. Flocculants vary by molecular weight, charge type, and density, and are used in water treatment to enhance sedimentation and filtration processes.
Flocculation
Flocculation is the process by which small particles in a liquid coalesce to form larger aggregates or flocs, aiding in their removal during water treatment. This process enhances the clarity of treated water by making it easier to separate suspended solids from the liquid phase.
Flow Controller
A flow controller is a device that regulates water or regenerant flow through a water conditioner, maintaining consistent flow rates despite changes in pressure. This ensures the system operates efficiently and delivers the required performance in various water treatment processes.
Flow Rate
Flow rate refers to the volume of water passing through a resin bed or filter over a specified time, typically expressed in gallons per minute per cubic foot of resin or milliliters per minute per milliliter of resin. Proper flow rate is crucial for effective treatment, ensuring contaminants are adequately removed.
Flush Valve
A flush valve is a self-closing valve used in toilets and urinals to control water flow during flushing. It delivers high flow rates (15-20 gallons per minute) for short durations, ensuring efficient flushing while conserving water.
Flux
In crossflow filtration, flux is the rate at which water passes through a membrane, usually measured in volume per time per membrane area. It indicates the efficiency of the filtration process and helps optimize system performance by balancing flow rate and membrane lifespan.
Freeboard
Freeboard is the vertical space above a bed of filter media or ion exchange material, allowing for bed expansion during backwashing. This space can be specified as a linear distance or a percentage of bed depth, ensuring effective cleaning and regeneration of the media bed.
GAC
Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) is a highly porous form of carbon used in water treatment to absorb contaminants and remove impurities such as organic chemicals, chlorine, and odors. GAC is effective in purifying water and air, enhancing quality by trapping pollutants within its porous structure.
Gallon
A gallon is a unit of liquid volume. The US gallon equals 231 cubic inches or 3.785 liters, while the British (Imperial) gallon equals 277.418 cubic inches or 4.546 liters. This measurement is used to quantify volumes in water treatment and various liquid-handling applications.
Galvanic Action
Galvanic action is a type of corrosion that occurs when dissimilar metals are in contact with each other and an electrolyte. This reaction causes one metal, the anode, to dissolve while the other metal, the cathode, is protected. An example is the corrosion that occurs when copper pipes are connected directly to steel without insulation.
Giardia Lamblia
Giardia lamblia is a protozoan found in water sources contaminated with animal feces. It causes giardiasis, a waterborne illness characterized by diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. Giardia is resistant to many disinfectants and is often removed by filtration methods rated at four microns or smaller.
GPD
Gallons Per Day (GPD) is a measurement of the volume of water processed or produced in a day. It is commonly used to quantify the capacity of water treatment systems, indicating the amount of treated water they can deliver within a 24-hour period.
GPG
Grains Per Gallon (GPG) is a unit of water hardness measurement, equivalent to 17.1 milligrams per liter (mg/L) of calcium carbonate. It indicates the concentration of minerals in the water, reflecting the water's hardness level and guiding treatment needs.
Grain
A grain is a unit of weight equal to 1/7000th of a pound or approximately 0.0648 grams. It is used in measuring the concentration of substances in water, especially for determining water hardness and other parameters in water treatment analysis.
Grains Per Gallon
A unit of measure indicating the concentration of dissolved materials in water, particularly used to express water hardness. One grain per gallon is equivalent to 17.1 parts per million (ppm). This metric helps in assessing the level of mineral content, especially calcium and magnesium, in water, which affects its quality and usability for various applications.
Gravel Support Bed
A layer composed of graded gravel and coarse sand within water treatment systems. It functions to support the underdrain system, facilitating even distribution of water during filtration and collection, and ensuring uniform backwash flow. This structure aids in the efficient operation and longevity of the filtration process.
Gray Water
Non-potable wastewater originating from residential or commercial sources such as sinks, showers, and washing machines. Gray water can be recycled for uses like irrigation, toilet flushing, or landscaping, reducing overall water consumption and contributing to water conservation efforts.
Grease
A term encompassing a variety of substances, including fats, oils, waxes, and certain minerals found in wastewater. Grease can accumulate and form blockages in pipes and treatment systems, necessitating removal and management to prevent operational issues and ensure effective wastewater treatment.
Greensand
A naturally occurring mineral composed of complex silicates, historically used for water softening. Modern applications include manganese greensand, which effectively removes contaminants such as iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide from water through adsorption and oxidation processes.
Grit
Heavy, inorganic particles like sand or gravel found in wastewater. Grit removal is crucial in wastewater treatment to protect pumps and mechanical systems from abrasion and damage, ensuring efficient operation and prolonging the life of equipment.
Ground Water
Water located in underground aquifers or rock formations, accessible through wells. Groundwater serves as a significant source for drinking water and irrigation. Its quality and availability are essential for public health and agricultural productivity, requiring sustainable management practices.
Gypsum
A mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate, commonly used to improve soil structure and permeability in agriculture. Gypsum also finds applications in the construction industry, particularly in the production of drywall and plaster.
Halite
The mineral form of sodium chloride, commonly known as rock salt. Halite is utilized in various applications, including water softening, de-icing roads, and as a source of sodium and chlorine in chemical processes.
Halogens
A group of reactive elements including fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine. Halogens are widely used in disinfection processes for water and air due to their ability to form ionic compounds with metals, effectively eliminating harmful microorganisms.
Hard Water
Water with high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. Hard water can lead to scaling in pipes and appliances and reduce the effectiveness of soaps and detergents. It often necessitates treatment to soften the water for domestic and industrial use.
Hardness
A measure of the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions in water, typically expressed as calcium carbonate equivalents. Water hardness can also include other metal salts and affects the quality of water by causing scale formation and reducing the effectiveness of cleaning agents.
Hardness Leakage
The occurrence of residual hardness-causing ions in water after treatment, often due to incomplete regeneration of ion exchange media or system malfunctions. Hardness leakage affects the effectiveness of water softening processes and may require additional treatment to address.
Head Loss
The reduction in pressure of a liquid as it flows through a treatment medium, such as a filter or resin bed. Head loss measures the resistance to flow, indicating the efficiency of the treatment system and the need for maintenance or cleaning.
Header
A central pipe in a water treatment system that collects treated water and distributes backwash water. It connects to side outlets, managing the flow of water through the system and ensuring even distribution during treatment and cleaning cycles.
Heavy Metals
Metals with high density or specific gravity, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. Heavy metals are environmental contaminants of concern due to their toxicity and potential health impacts, necessitating careful monitoring and removal from water and waste streams.
Heme Iron
A form of organically bound iron present in groundwater, often giving water a pinkish tint. Heme iron is challenging to remove using standard filtration methods and typically requires specialized treatment techniques for effective removal.
Hemodialysis
A medical procedure that filters waste products from a patient's blood using a dialysis membrane, simulating kidney function. Hemodialysis relies on highly purified water to ensure the safe and effective treatment of patients with kidney failure.
Heterotroph
A microorganism that obtains energy by consuming organic matter. Heterotrophs can use free oxygen, nitrates, or sulfates for respiration, playing a role in the decomposition of organic materials in water and wastewater treatment processes.
Hexametaphosphate
A sequestering agent, such as sodium hexametaphosphate, added to water to prevent the precipitation of minerals. It forms a protective film on metals, inhibiting corrosion and scaling, and is used in water treatment to maintain system integrity and efficiency.
Hot Lime
A water softening process that involves adding lime and soda ash to water at high temperatures, around 212°F. This treatment precipitates calcium, magnesium, iron, and silica, and removes carbon dioxide, partially softening the water for industrial and domestic use.
Hydraulic Classification
The process of sorting resin particles in an ion exchange unit during backwashing. Larger particles settle at the bottom while smaller particles rise, maintaining an optimal structure of the resin bed for efficient ion exchange and regeneration.
Hydrostatic Pressure
The pressure exerted by a fluid at rest. In water systems, hydrostatic pressure is a key factor in assessing the structural strength and ability of components to withstand water pressure, ensuring the safe and effective operation of treatment systems.
Hydrogen Cycle
A cation exchange process where an ion exchange resin is regenerated with acid, replacing cations in the water with hydrogen ions. This cycle removes all cations from the water, producing highly purified water suitable for specialized applications.
Hydrogen Sulfide
A gas known for its characteristic "rotten egg" odor, produced by the decay of organic matter. Hydrogen sulfide is corrosive and flammable, commonly found in well water, and requires treatment to prevent damage and ensure water quality.
Hydrologic Cycle
The hydrologic cycle refers to the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth’s surface. Key processes include precipitation, evaporation, and transpiration, which naturally filter, recycle, and redistribute water across different environments. This cycle is essential for maintaining the balance of freshwater ecosystems and supporting all forms of life.
Hydroxyl
The hydroxyl ion (OH⁻) is a negatively charged ion that contributes to the alkalinity of solutions. In water chemistry and treatment processes, hydroxyl ions are crucial for neutralizing acids and facilitating various chemical reactions, including the breakdown of organic contaminants.
Inclined Plate Clarifier
An inclined plate clarifier is a solid-liquid separation device that features parallel plates set at angles between 45° and 55°. These plates increase settling efficiency by expanding the effective surface area, thereby enhancing the removal of solids from liquids and reducing the clarifier's physical footprint compared to traditional gravity clarifiers.
Infection
In the context of water treatment, infection refers to the introduction or presence of pathogenic organisms in a potable water supply, which can pose significant health risks. Effective water treatment and disinfection are essential to eliminate these microorganisms and ensure safe drinking water.
Influent
Influent is the incoming water or wastewater that enters a treatment system. This untreated or partially treated water undergoes various processes to remove contaminants before it can be safely released into the environment or reused, ensuring the removal of harmful substances.
Inorganic Material
Inorganic material includes substances that are non-volatile and do not undergo biological decomposition. Examples are sand, cinders, and stone. These mineral-based materials do not degrade biologically and are often found as sediment or debris in natural and treated water systems.
Inorganic Matter
Inorganic matter consists of substances that are not derived from living organisms and lack organic carbon. This category includes rocks, minerals, and metals, which make up the non-living components of the environment and play a role in various geological and industrial processes.
In-Parallel Flow
In-parallel flow refers to a piping configuration that directs separate streams through multiple treatment units simultaneously. Each unit receives an equal flow, as their inlets and outlets are interconnected, providing balanced and efficient treatment across the entire system.
In-Series Flow
In-series flow is a piping arrangement where the effluent from one treatment unit is directed into the next unit sequentially. This setup allows for progressive contaminant reduction, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment process compared to a single unit operation.
Iodine Number
The iodine number measures the adsorption capacity of activated carbon for low molecular weight substances. It represents the milligrams of iodine that one gram of activated carbon can adsorb, indicating its effectiveness in removing contaminants from water or air.
Ion
An ion is an atom or group of atoms that carries an electrical charge due to the loss or gain of electrons. Ions can be positively charged (cations) or negatively charged (anions) and are crucial in chemical reactions, including those involved in water treatment and conductivity in solutions.
Ion Exchange
Ion exchange is a reversible process where ions in a solution are exchanged with ions from a solid ion exchanger. This process is used in water demineralization, where the ion exchanger’s affinity for specific ions allows for the removal of undesirable minerals, improving water quality.
Ionization
Ionization is the process by which molecules dissociate into charged particles (ions) through the gain or loss of electrons. This process results in atoms becoming electrically charged, playing a critical role in chemical reactions, conductivity, and the overall behavior of solutions in water treatment.
Iron
Iron is a common element found in groundwater, typically in the form of ferrous iron (Fe²⁺). Concentrations often range from 0 to 10 ppm. In water supplies, iron can cause staining, taste issues, and color changes, particularly when it oxidizes to ferric iron (Fe³⁺).
Iron Bacteria
Iron bacteria are microorganisms that metabolize ferrous iron from water or steel pipes, depositing ferric hydroxide in their sheaths. These bacteria can accumulate in pipelines and tanks, causing staining, taste, and odor problems during low flow periods, and can clog water systems.
Iron Fouling
Iron fouling refers to the accumulation of iron within an ion exchange resin or filter bed, which reduces the media’s capacity and efficiency. This buildup can interfere with the performance of water treatment systems, necessitating regular maintenance and cleaning to restore functionality.
Jackson Turbidity Unit
The Jackson Turbidity Unit (JTU) was a historical measure of water turbidity based on silica suspensions and measured with a Jackson Candle Turbidimeter. It has been largely replaced by the nephelometric turbidity unit (NTU), which provides more accurate and reliable assessments of water clarity.
KDF
KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion) is a water treatment medium composed of copper-zinc alloy particles with redox properties. KDF is effective at removing chlorine, heavy metals, and preventing bacterial growth. KDF 55 is primarily used for chlorine removal, while KDF 85 targets iron and hydrogen sulfide.
Kilograin
A kilograin is a unit of measure representing one thousand grains, equivalent to 17,100 ppm or 0.1429 pounds. It is commonly used in water softening to quantify the capacity or dosage of ion exchange resins, indicating the amount of hardness minerals that can be treated.
Kinetics
Kinetics is the study of the relationships between temperature, motion, and particle velocity, particularly at a microscopic level. In water treatment, kinetics describes the rates of chemical reactions, such as those involved in ion exchange, which are crucial for optimizing treatment processes.
Langelier Index
The Langelier Index is a calculated indicator of water’s tendency to form or dissolve calcium carbonate scale. It assesses water’s scaling or corrosive potential but does not account for factors such as film formation, flow velocity, or the presence of inhibitors.
Leach Field
A leach field is an area where effluent from a septic tank is distributed through underground pipes for natural filtration and percolation through the soil. This system facilitates the breakdown of waste, allowing treated water to safely reenter the groundwater system.
Leakage
Leakage refers to the occurrence of influent ions passing through a treatment system without being absorbed, appearing in the effluent. This typically results from insufficiently regenerated ion exchange resin or excessive flow rates, leading to reduced treatment efficiency.
Legionella
Legionella is a genus of bacteria, including Legionella pneumophila, known to cause Legionnaires’ disease, a severe pneumonia-like illness. These bacteria thrive in warm water environments like heaters and humidifiers, and infections typically occur through inhalation of contaminated aerosols.
Lime
Lime commonly refers to calcium oxide (CaO) or its hydrated form, calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂). It is used in water treatment processes such as softening, where it helps precipitate hardness minerals from water, thereby reducing the levels of calcium and magnesium.
Lime Scale
Lime scale is a hard, insoluble deposit primarily composed of calcium carbonate, forming in pipes and appliances when water containing calcium carbonate is heated or has a high pH. It can obstruct water flow and reduce the efficiency of heating and plumbing systems.
Lime Softening
Lime softening is a water treatment process that reduces hardness by adding lime to precipitate calcium and magnesium. Soda ash is often added to enhance this process, leaving a residual hardness of around five grains per gallon, thereby improving water quality for municipal systems.
Macroporous Resin
Macroporous resins are ion exchange resins with a high degree of cross-linkage (12% or more), available in both cation and anion forms. These resins are designed to resist oxidation and organic fouling, making them suitable for demanding applications in water treatment where durability and capacity are essential.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth’s crust, which contributes to water hardness when dissolved. High concentrations of magnesium in water can lead to scaling and the formation of insoluble soap curds, affecting water systems and their efficiency.
Magnesium Hardness
Magnesium hardness measures the concentration of dissolved magnesium salts in water. While it does not directly impact water balance, it contributes to overall water hardness, which can affect water quality and system performance, necessitating treatment to prevent scaling.
Manganese
Manganese is an element commonly found in groundwater, often alongside dissolved iron but in smaller quantities. At concentrations above 0.05 mg/L, manganese can cause black stains on laundry and plumbing fixtures. Removal methods include ion exchange, oxidation, and filtration to maintain water quality.
Manganese Greensand
Manganese greensand is a processed form of greensand infused with manganese oxides, which provide mild oxidizing capabilities. It is used to oxidize and precipitate iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide from water, improving water quality by removing these contaminants. The material can be regenerated using a weak potassium permanganate solution, restoring its oxidizing properties for continued use.
MCL
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) refers to the highest allowable concentration of a contaminant in drinking water as regulated by health standards. This regulatory standard ensures that drinking water is safe for consumption by limiting the presence of harmful substances, providing a benchmark for water treatment compliance.
MCLG
Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) is a non-enforceable health target for the highest permissible concentration of a contaminant in drinking water. Set based on health considerations, MCLGs serve as ideal goals for water quality, guiding regulatory standards towards achieving safe and health-protective water.
Mechanical Filter
A mechanical filter is designed to remove suspended solid particles from water through physical straining or filtration, rather than through chemical processes. It captures particles based on size, providing an essential step in water treatment to improve clarity and reduce turbidity by eliminating visible particulates.
Membrane
A membrane is a selective barrier that separates substances based on their size or type, allowing certain particles, molecules, or substances to pass while blocking others. It is widely used in filtration and separation processes to purify or concentrate solutions, particularly in water and wastewater treatment.
Membrane Bio Reactor
A Membrane Bio Reactor (MBR) is an advanced wastewater treatment system combining biological treatment with membrane filtration. The membranes, which can be either submerged or external, filter solids from the treated water, replacing traditional methods of clarification. MBR systems enhance the removal of contaminants and improve the quality of treated water.
Microfiltration
Microfiltration is a membrane filtration process that removes suspended solids and large molecules from liquids. This process is utilized across various industries to purify, concentrate, and eliminate macromolecular substances from solutions, providing a high level of clarity and quality in the filtered product.
Microgram per Liter
Microgram per liter (µg/L) is a unit of measurement used to quantify very small concentrations of substances in water. Equivalent to parts per billion (ppb), this unit helps measure and monitor trace levels of contaminants, crucial for assessing water quality and compliance with health standards.
Microhm
A microhm is a unit of electrical resistance equal to one millionth of an ohm. It measures the electrical resistance of water, helping gauge purity levels. Pure water exhibits high resistance to electrical currents, making this measurement useful in determining the presence of dissolved ions and impurities.
Micron
A micron (µm) is a unit of length equal to one millionth of a meter (0.00003937 inches). It is used to measure particle sizes in various applications, with typical bacteria ranging from 0.5 to 10 microns. This unit is essential in specifying filtration requirements and evaluating water purity.
Micron Rating
The micron rating of a filter indicates the smallest particle size it can effectively remove. This rating, expressed in microns, signifies the filter's capability to retain particles larger than the specified size, ensuring precise filtration and enhancing the clarity and purity of the filtered medium.
Micro-Organisms
Micro-organisms are microscopic living entities, including bacteria, molds, protozoa, algae, and small metazoans. They play significant roles in various biological processes and are found in diverse environments, contributing to the breakdown of organic material and influencing water quality.
Microsiemens
Microsiemens (µS) is a unit measuring the electrical conductivity of water, which is used to estimate the total dissolved solids (TDS). It provides a quick assessment of water quality, with higher conductivity indicating higher levels of dissolved ions. Typically, 1.4 µS is roughly equivalent to 1 ppm of dissolved solids.
Milligram per Liter
Milligram per liter (mg/L) is a concentration unit used in water and wastewater analysis, nearly equivalent to parts per million (ppm) in dilute solutions. It provides a precise measure of the amount of substance present in water, aiding in the assessment of water quality and treatment effectiveness.
Mineral
Minerals are inorganic substances with a defined chemical composition and crystal structure, occurring naturally in Earth's strata. In water treatment, minerals refer to inorganic ions dissolved in water, affecting its hardness and chemical properties. Although not technically accurate, the term can also apply to ion exchange materials.
Mixed Bed Ion Exchange
Mixed bed ion exchange involves a single column containing a mixture of cation and anion resins to produce high-purity water. This process effectively removes both positive and negative ions, necessitating proper pretreatment for optimal performance and maintaining the purity standards of the treated water.
Mixed Liquor
Mixed liquor is the combination of primary wastewater effluent and activated biological solids (return sludge) introduced into the aeration tank during the activated sludge treatment process. This mixture supports the biological breakdown of pollutants, facilitating effective wastewater treatment.
Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS)
Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS) refers to the concentration of suspended solids in the mixed liquor of an aeration tank, measured in milligrams per liter. MLSS is a key parameter for estimating the biomass present in the system, guiding the removal of solids in wastewater treatment.
Mixed Media Gravity Filter
A mixed media gravity filter uses multiple layers of different media, such as coal and sand, to remove particulates from water through gravity filtration. This system enhances the filtration process by providing varying degrees of particle retention, leading to improved water clarity and quality.
Module
A module in membrane filtration systems consists of the membrane element and its housing. Modules facilitate the separation process by supporting and enclosing the membrane, enabling efficient filtration and separation of substances based on size or type in water treatment applications.
Molecule
A molecule is the smallest unit of a chemical compound that retains the compound's chemical properties. It consists of atoms bonded together and can only be broken down into simpler substances or atoms through chemical reactions.
Moving Bed Bio Reactor (MBBR)
The Moving Bed Bio Reactor (MBBR) is an aerobic wastewater treatment process that uses suspended media to support bacterial growth. This fixed-film system enhances the breakdown of pollutants by separating solids and liquids, typically followed by a clarifier for further treatment and purification.
Muriatic Acid
Muriatic acid is a diluted solution of hydrochloric acid used to lower pH and alkalinity in water treatment. It is also effective for removing stains and scale deposits from surfaces, making it valuable in various water treatment and maintenance applications.
Nanofiltration
Nanofiltration is a membrane filtration process that removes particles with molecular weights between 300 and 1,000, including organic compounds and hardness ions. Positioned between reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration in its capabilities, nanofiltration effectively softens water and removes specific contaminants.
Nephelometer Turbidity Units (NTU)
Nephelometer Turbidity Units (NTU) measure the clarity of a liquid by assessing its turbidity. This unit quantifies how much light is scattered by suspended particles in the water, providing an indication of the water's clarity and quality.
Neutralizer
A neutralizer is a material, often alkaline such as calcite (calcium carbonate) or magnesia (magnesium oxide), used to neutralize acidic water. Conversely, acids can neutralize alkaline water. The goal is to achieve a balanced pH of 7.0, crucial for maintaining water quality and preventing corrosion.
Nitrification
Nitrification is a bacterial process that converts ammonia into nitrates, a crucial step in the nitrogen cycle. This process plays a vital role in wastewater treatment by reducing nitrogen levels and preventing the harmful effects of ammonia in the environment.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen is a key element found in various forms in wastewater, including total Kjeldahl nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen, and organic nitrogen. It is essential for understanding and managing the nitrogen cycle in water treatment, as different forms of nitrogen affect water quality and treatment processes.
Nitrogen Cycle
The nitrogen cycle describes the natural process of nitrogen transformation, involving the conversion of ammonia from proteins into various nitrogenous compounds through biological activity. This cycle is fundamental to maintaining nitrogen balance in ecosystems and is critical in wastewater treatment.
Nominal
Nominal refers to an approximate particle size that a filter will predominantly capture. A nominal one-micron filter retains most particles larger than one micron, providing an estimate of filtration efficiency. This rating contrasts with the "absolute" rating, which guarantees retention of all particles above the specified size.
Nonionic
Nonionic substances are high molecular weight polyelectrolytes with no charge. They are used to aggregate solids in water substrates without engaging in ion exchange, providing effective flocculation in water treatment and improving clarity and quality.
NSF
The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) develops health and safety standards and provides testing and certification for water treatment products and systems. NSF certification ensures compliance with stringent health guidelines, promoting the safety and quality of water treatment solutions.
Nutrient
Nutrients are substances that organisms assimilate for growth, reproduction, and cellular maintenance. They are essential for various biological processes and play a critical role in ecosystems, influencing the productivity and health of aquatic and terrestrial environments.
Ohm
An ohm is a unit of electrical resistance that measures the opposition to the flow of current. In water solutions, measuring ohms helps determine the concentration of electrolytes, affecting the solution's conductivity and resistance, which are critical for assessing water purity and treatment needs.
Operating Pressure
Operating pressure refers to the specified range of pressure, typically measured in pounds per square inch (psi), within which a water conditioning device or system functions optimally. This range, generally between 30 and 100 psi, ensures that the system can handle varying pressures while maintaining effective performance in treating and delivering water.
Organic
Organic substances are compounds derived from living organisms, encompassing plant and animal matter characterized by carbon-hydrogen bonds. These materials include fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and other compounds essential for life processes, differentiating them from inorganic substances that originate from minerals and rocks.
Organic Material
Organic material consists of biodegradable substances from plant or animal sources, such as fats, meats, and plant debris. These materials can be broken down by bacteria and other microorganisms, playing a vital role in the decomposition and nutrient cycling in natural and engineered environments.
Organic Matter
Organic matter comprises waste products of plant or animal origin, commonly found in household or industrial waste. It represents the volatile fraction of solids that can be decomposed by microbial activity, contributing to nutrient recycling and the treatment of wastewater.
Organics
Organics refer to carbon-based compounds, including hydrocarbons, sugars, proteins, and various chemicals such as solvents, pesticides, herbicides, and pollutants like trihalomethane (THM) and trichloroethylene (TCE). These compounds can impact water quality and require careful management in water treatment processes.
Orthophosphate
Orthophosphate is a water-soluble compound consisting of phosphorus and oxygen, commonly used in water treatment to prevent pipe corrosion and scale formation. By stabilizing the water chemistry, orthophosphate helps maintain the integrity of plumbing systems and enhances treatment efficiency.
Osmosis
Osmosis is the movement of water molecules through a semipermeable membrane from a less concentrated solution to a more concentrated one, aiming to equalize concentrations on both sides. This natural process is fundamental in biological systems and water treatment, occurring without external energy input.
Osmotic Pressure
Osmotic pressure is the pressure required to halt the flow of water across a semipermeable membrane due to osmosis. It reflects the potential energy difference between two solutions and is a critical factor in processes like reverse osmosis in water purification.
Oxalic Acid
Oxalic acid is a chemical compound used to remove iron stains from fabrics. Available in crystalline form, it is toxic and can irritate the skin, requiring careful handling. Its strong chelating properties make it effective in various cleaning applications.
Oxic
The term "oxic" describes a biological environment rich in oxygen, where aerobic processes can occur. In such environments, aerobic microorganisms decompose organic materials, facilitating the breakdown of contaminants and improving water and air quality.
Oxidation
Oxidation is a chemical reaction where a substance loses electrons, often involving the addition of oxygen. This process can range from rapid (as in combustion) to slow (such as rusting). Oxidation is crucial in redox reactions and plays a significant role in water treatment and environmental processes.
Oxidation Ponds or Lagoons
Oxidation ponds or lagoons are man-made ponds designed for the biological treatment of organic waste through aerobic or anaerobic decomposition. These natural processes allow the gradual breakdown of contaminants, improving water quality over time.
Oxidizing Agent
An oxidizing agent is a chemical that promotes oxidation by accepting electrons from another substance. Common examples include oxygen, ozone, chlorine, and hydrogen peroxide, which are used in various applications to facilitate redox reactions and disinfection.
Oxidizing Filter
An oxidizing filter is a type of filter that alters the valence state of dissolved contaminants, such as iron or manganese, making them insoluble. This process uses catalytic media like manganese oxide to precipitate and filter out the contaminants, enhancing water quality.
Ozone
Ozone (O₃) is a triatomic form of oxygen created by high-voltage electrical discharges or UV light. It is a powerful oxidizing agent used in water treatment for disinfection and breaking down organic contaminants, providing a chemical-free method for purifying water and air.
Particulate
Particulates are visible sediment particles in water, ranging from small to large sizes. These particles can include dirt, debris, and other impurities that often require filtration to be removed from water, improving its clarity and quality.
Parts Per Billion
Parts per billion (ppb) is a unit of measurement indicating the concentration of a substance in water, representing one part of the substance per billion parts of water. It is equivalent to one microgram per liter and is used to measure trace concentrations of pollutants.
Parts Per Million
Parts per million (ppm) is a common unit used to measure the concentration of a substance in water, indicating one part of the substance per million parts of water. Equivalent to one milligram per liter, ppm is widely used in water analysis to report dilute concentrations.
Permeable
Permeable describes materials that allow certain substances, such as liquids or gases, to pass through them. This property is essential for various filtration and separation processes, where the movement of substances through permeable structures facilitates purification and treatment.
Permeate
Permeate is the portion of a feed stream that passes through a membrane in processes like reverse osmosis. It represents the purified water that results from the filtration process, free from contaminants that are retained by the membrane.
pH
pH is a scale used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of water, ranging from 0 (most acidic) to 14 (most alkaline), with 7 being neutral. pH levels affect water chemistry, treatment processes, and the effectiveness of disinfection, making it a critical parameter in water quality management.
Pharmaceutical Grade Water
Pharmaceutical grade water is high-purity water defined by the U.S. Pharmacopoeia in six grades: Purified Water, Water for Injection, Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, Sterile Water for Inhalation, Sterile Water for Injection, and Sterile Water for Irrigation. Each grade meets specific purity and quality standards for medical and laboratory use.
Phenol Red
Phenol red is a chemical indicator used to test pH levels, effective in the range of 6.8 to 8.4. It changes color based on the acidity or alkalinity of the solution, turning yellow in acidic environments and red in alkaline conditions, aiding in visual pH assessment.
Phenolphthalein
Phenolphthalein is an acid-base indicator that remains colorless in acidic solutions but turns pink or red in basic solutions. It is commonly used in titrations and to determine the pH of solutions, providing a visual indication of acidity or alkalinity.
Physical Adsorption
Physical adsorption is the process by which molecules adhere to the surface of a solid through weak forces similar to condensation. Unlike chemical adsorption, which involves stronger chemical bonds, physical adsorption relies on van der Waals forces and is generally reversible.
Physical Stability
Physical stability refers to the resistance of an ion exchange resin to physical changes, such as attrition or temperature variations, ensuring its long-term effectiveness in water treatment. Maintaining physical stability is crucial for the consistent performance of resins under varying operational conditions.
Point of Entry
A point of entry (POE) system is a water treatment system installed at the main water inlet of a building. It provides centralized treatment for all incoming water, addressing contaminants before the water is distributed throughout the premises, ensuring clean water for all uses.
Point-of-Use
A point-of-use (POU) system is a water treatment device installed at the specific location where water is consumed, such as a countertop or under-sink filter. It treats water at the tap, providing purified water directly for drinking or cooking, targeting specific contaminants at the point of use.
Polyelectrolytes
Polyelectrolytes are synthetic chemicals used as coagulant aids in water treatment. They help aggregate suspended particles, enhancing the efficiency of coagulation and sedimentation processes, making it easier to remove impurities from water.
Polymers
Polymers are large molecules composed of repeating structural units, used in water treatment for purposes such as coagulation, flocculation, and filtration. Their ability to form networks or gels makes them effective in binding and removing suspended particles from water.
Polyphosphate
Polyphosphate is a chemical used in water treatment to sequester hardness and iron, preventing scale formation and corrosion. It works by forming protective films on metal surfaces, maintaining the integrity of plumbing systems and improving water quality.
Pore
A pore is a small opening in a membrane or material that allows the selective passage of certain molecules while blocking others. Pores are critical in filtration processes, enabling precise separation based on particle size and ensuring the effective removal of contaminants from water or air.
Porous
Porous describes a material that contains numerous small pores or openings, allowing liquids or gases to pass through its structure. This property is essential in various filtration and purification processes, where the ability to permeate through the material is required for effective treatment.
Portable Exchange
Portable exchange refers to water treatment units, such as water softeners and deionizers, that can be transported to a central facility for regeneration or servicing. These units allow convenient and efficient water treatment by being replaceable on-site and serviced off-site, ensuring continued water quality without extensive downtime.
Positive Charge
A positive charge is the electrical potential gained by an atom or molecule that has lost electrons, resulting in a net positive charge. This characteristic is typical of cations in ionic compounds, which are attracted to negatively charged ions or anodes during chemical reactions.
Potable Water
Potable water is water that is safe and suitable for human consumption, meeting all health and safety standards for drinking water. It is free from harmful levels of contaminants and is processed to ensure it is clean, clear, and acceptable for drinking and cooking.
Powdered Activated Carbon
Powdered activated carbon (PAC) is a fine form of activated carbon, with particles smaller than 80 mesh, used to adsorb contaminants from water. Its small particle size provides a high surface area, making it highly efficient for removing dissolved organic compounds and impurities in water treatment processes.
Pre-chlorination
Pre-chlorination involves adding chlorine to water before it undergoes further treatment processes. This step is used to control microbial growth, prevent biofouling, and reduce organic matter, which helps enhance the effectiveness of subsequent treatment stages and improves overall water quality.
Precipitate
A precipitate is a solid formed from a dissolved substance in water through chemical reactions. These solid particles can be removed by settling or filtration. Precipitation is a common process in water treatment to remove dissolved metals or impurities, turning them into solids for easy extraction.
Preferential Adsorption
Preferential adsorption is a selective process where specific components in a mixture are absorbed to a greater extent than others. This process targets contaminants in water treatment, allowing for the efficient removal of selected impurities based on their affinity to the adsorbent material.
Pressure Drop
Pressure drop is the reduction in water pressure as it moves through pipes or treatment equipment, caused by frictional forces. This decrease in pressure affects the flow rate and efficiency of water systems, making it a critical factor to manage in designing and operating water treatment and dust collection systems.
Primary Waste Treatment
Primary waste treatment is the first stage in wastewater treatment, involving the mechanical removal of solids, grease, and scum. This process typically removes 50% to 65% of suspended solids and a significant portion of Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), preparing the wastewater for further treatment stages.
Protozoa
Protozoa are microscopic, single-celled organisms found in water. Some protozoa are parasitic and can cause diseases, while others play beneficial roles in the ecosystem by consuming bacteria. Their presence in water requires careful monitoring and treatment to ensure safety and quality.
PSI
PSI stands for pounds per square inch, a unit of pressure measurement commonly used in water systems. It quantifies the force exerted by the water on a surface, essential for assessing and controlling water pressure in various applications, including filtration and distribution.
Pumicite
Pumicite is a volcanic ash-derived mineral composed of glassy aluminum silicate, used as a filtration media in water treatment. Its porous nature makes it effective in removing suspended particles and impurities from water, contributing to improved water clarity and quality.
Purification
Purification is the process of removing undesirable substances from water, including microbial contaminants and impurities. This process aims to produce water that is clean and safe for various uses, including drinking, industrial applications, and environmental discharge.
Putrefaction
Putrefaction is the biological decomposition of organic matter by microbes in the absence of oxygen, leading to the production of foul-smelling compounds. This anaerobic process occurs in stagnant or oxygen-deprived environments and is often associated with waste and decay.
Pyrogens
Pyrogens are substances that can induce fever when introduced into the body. They are stable compounds not easily destroyed by conditions that kill bacteria and are a concern in sterile water production, where their presence must be minimized to ensure safety.
Pyrolox
Pyrolox is a catalytic media used to remove iron, hydrogen sulfide, and manganese from water. It operates effectively at a pH of 6.5 or higher and requires backwashing to maintain its performance. Pyrolox oxidizes contaminants, converting them into solid particles for removal.
Quartz Sleeve
A quartz sleeve is a transparent, pure quartz cover installed around ultraviolet lamps in UV water treatment systems. It transmits UV radiation effectively while protecting the lamp from water exposure, ensuring optimal disinfection and extending the lamp’s lifespan.
R.O.
R.O., or reverse osmosis, is a water purification process that uses a semipermeable membrane to remove dissolved solids and contaminants from water. This process forces water through the membrane under pressure, leaving impurities behind and producing high-quality purified water.
Radium
Radium is a naturally occurring radioactive element found in groundwater in some regions. It poses health risks due to its radioactivity and must be removed from drinking water through processes like ion exchange or reverse osmosis to ensure safety.
Radon
Radon is a radioactive gas resulting from the decay of uranium. Soluble in water, radon poses significant health risks, especially as a carcinogen when inhaled. Effective removal methods include activated carbon filtration or aeration techniques, which reduce its concentration in water supplies.
Raw Wastewater
Raw wastewater is untreated water that has not undergone any form of processing or treatment. It contains a variety of contaminants and pollutants and is the starting point for water treatment processes aimed at reducing its impact on the environment and public health.
Raw Water
Raw water is untreated water sourced directly from natural bodies such as wells, rivers, lakes, or other surface sources. It is the initial input for water treatment systems, where it undergoes purification to meet safety and quality standards for various uses.
Reactivation
Reactivation is the process used to restore the adsorptive capacity of spent sorbents like activated carbon. This typically involves methods like oxidation or thermal treatment, rejuvenating the material and enabling it to adsorb contaminants effectively once again.
Reactor
A reactor is a tank or vessel where wastewater is combined with bacterial sludge to facilitate biochemical reactions. These reactions, which can be aerobic or anaerobic, help break down organic matter, playing a crucial role in the treatment and purification of wastewater.
Receiving Waters
Receiving waters are natural bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or oceans that receive treated or untreated wastewater. The quality of these waters can be impacted by the effluents released into them, affecting ecosystems and water quality downstream.
Redox
Redox is shorthand for oxidation-reduction reactions, involving the transfer of electrons between molecules. These reactions change the oxidation states of the involved elements and are essential in various water treatment and chemical processes, facilitating the removal or transformation of contaminants.
Regenerant
A regenerant is a chemical solution used to restore the functionality of ion exchangers. For instance, acids regenerate cation exchangers, while alkaline solutions rejuvenate anion exchangers. Potassium permanganate is often used to regenerate manganese greensand filters, renewing their capacity to treat water.
Regeneration
Regeneration is the process that restores ion exchange resins to their functional state. In water softening, this involves flushing the mineral bed with salt brine to replace calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions, preparing the resin to soften water effectively again.
Rejection
Rejection in membrane filtration systems like reverse osmosis refers to the membrane’s ability to block dissolved solids and contaminants, allowing only purified water to pass through. This results in high-quality product water, with contaminants retained by the membrane for disposal.
Residual
Residual refers to the remaining amount of a substance in water after a treatment process. This can indicate incomplete removal of contaminants or the presence of substances intentionally left in the water, such as residual chlorine, which serves as a disinfectant.
Resin
Resin refers to polymer beads designed for ion exchange processes to remove dissolved salts from water. These resins exchange ions with the water passing through them, aiding in water purification by reducing the concentrations of specific contaminants and improving water quality.
Retentivity
Retentivity is the ability of an adsorbent material to retain adsorbed substances and resist their release. High retentivity indicates that the material can hold onto contaminants for extended periods without significant desorption, ensuring effective long-term performance in applications like water treatment and dust collection.
Return Activated Sludge
Return activated sludge refers to the portion of settled sludge from a wastewater treatment clarifier that is recycled back into the aeration tank. This continuous recycling provides a steady supply of microorganisms that break down incoming wastewater, enhancing the decomposition of organic matter and sedimentation.
Return Sludge
Return sludge is the settled activated sludge that is reintroduced into the treatment process to mix with incoming wastewater. Maintaining adequate return sludge rates is crucial to ensure there are sufficient microorganisms to handle the organic load, supporting effective aeration and treatment.
Reverse Deionization
Reverse deionization involves arranging an anion exchange unit before a cation exchange unit in a deionization system. This configuration enhances the removal efficiency of ions from water by first targeting negatively charged ions and then positively charged ions, optimizing the deionization process.
Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis is a water purification technique where water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane under pressure. This process filters out dissolved ions, molecules, and larger particles, producing high-purity water by reversing the natural flow of osmosis.
Rust
Rust is the reddish-brown compound that forms on iron surfaces due to corrosion. It results from the electrochemical reaction between iron and oxygen in the presence of moisture. Rust can contaminate water supplies and infrastructure, leading to potential damage and contamination issues.
Sacrificial Anode
A sacrificial anode is a metal rod made from materials like magnesium or zinc that corrodes preferentially to protect metal surfaces in water heaters or pipelines. It "sacrifices" itself by attracting corrosive activity, thereby prolonging the life of the protected metal by preventing its corrosion.
Salt
Salt, commonly sodium chloride (NaCl), is used in ion exchange water softeners to regenerate the resin by replacing accumulated hardness ions with sodium ions. Chemically, salts are compounds formed from the neutralization of an acid with a base, encompassing various types beyond just sodium chloride.
Sand Filter
A sand filter is a filtration system that removes suspended solids or colloidal particles that are not easily settled. These filters can be of gravity rapid-rate type or enclosed pressure type, effectively cleaning water by filtering it through a bed of sand, removing particulates and impurities.
Saturated Solution
A saturated solution contains the maximum amount of dissolved solute that can be maintained at a given temperature. Beyond this point, additional solute will not dissolve and may precipitate out, indicating the solution’s saturation limit.
Scale
Scale is a hard, crusty deposit of minerals like calcium carbonate that forms on surfaces exposed to hard water. This buildup can accumulate in pipes, boilers, and water heaters, leading to reduced efficiency, potential blockages, and shorter equipment lifespan.
Scavenger
A scavenger is a substance used to remove specific contaminants from feedwater before the main treatment process. Often a polymer matrix or ion exchanger, it binds and eliminates organic or inorganic pollutants, enhancing the overall purity and quality of the water entering deionization or filtration systems.
Secondary Treatment
Secondary treatment is the stage in wastewater treatment that uses biological processes to remove dissolved and suspended organic matter after primary treatment. This phase typically involves aeration, biological oxidation, and the settling of biomass to further purify the water.
Secondary Waste Treatment
Secondary waste treatment extends the primary treatment process by biologically breaking down organic solids and removing additional contaminants. This includes methods like aeration, clarification, and disinfection, and may be followed by tertiary treatment for further purification.
Sedimentation Tanks
Sedimentation tanks allow suspended solids in water or wastewater to settle at the bottom through a period of stillness. Solids accumulate and are removed by scraping into a hopper, while floatable substances like fats and oils rise to the surface and are skimmed off, improving water clarity.
Selective Ion Exchange
Selective ion exchange is a process using a specialized ion exchange medium to target and remove specific ions from a solution. This method enhances deionization or water softening efficiency by focusing on unwanted ions, improving treatment outcomes.
Semipermeable
A semipermeable membrane allows certain molecules or ions to pass through while blocking others based on size or charge. This property is essential in processes like reverse osmosis, where selective filtration is used to separate contaminants from water.
Sequester
To sequester means to chemically bind specific ions into a stable, water-soluble compound, preventing them from causing unwanted reactions. For example, polyphosphates can sequester hardness ions in water, preventing scale formation and maintaining water quality.
Service Run
The service run is the operational phase of a water conditioning unit when it provides treated water. This period excludes times when the unit is undergoing maintenance activities like backwashing, recharging, or regenerating, during which treated water is not available.
Sewage
Sewage is water contaminated with waste from households, businesses, and industries. It includes a mix of organic and inorganic matter, along with potential groundwater, surface water, and stormwater that enter the system, requiring treatment before discharge or reuse.
Sewers
Sewers are networks of pipes designed to collect and transport domestic, industrial, and stormwater waste. Types include lateral sewers for local collection, trunk sewers for channeling waste to larger systems, and storm sewers specifically for runoff management.
Siliceous Gel Zeolite
Siliceous gel zeolite is a synthetic inorganic ion exchanger produced by reacting alkali with aluminum salts in water. It is used in water purification and softening by exchanging unwanted ions for beneficial ones, effectively removing contaminants.
Silt Density Index (SDI)
The Silt Density Index (SDI) measures the concentration of silt, colloids, bacteria, and other particles in water that can foul reverse osmosis membranes. SDI helps assess the water's suitability for the reverse osmosis process by indicating potential fouling rates.
Sludge
Sludge consists of the solids that settle out of sewage during treatment, typically collected in tanks or basins. This material includes both organic and inorganic particles that require further processing for safe disposal or beneficial reuse.
Sludge Age
Sludge age in the activated sludge process indicates the average time that particles of suspended solids have been aerated. It is calculated by dividing the total weight of solids in the aeration tank by the daily weight of solids discharged, reflecting treatment efficiency.
Sludge Digestion
Sludge digestion breaks down sludge to separate liquids from solids, making the material easier to handle and dry. Effective digestion requires maintaining a pH of 6.8-7.2 to optimize microbial activity and facilitate the decomposition of organic matter.
Sludge Index
Also known as the Sludge Volume Index (SVI), this metric measures the volume occupied by 1 gram of settled sludge in milliliters after 30 minutes of settling. It indicates the settleability of sludge, helping to assess and optimize sludge handling processes.
Sludge Judge
A sludge judge is a transparent tube used to measure the depth of sludge in clarifiers or tanks. It aids in monitoring sludge accumulation and removal efficiency, providing valuable data for managing sludge levels in treatment systems.
Sludge Reaeration
Sludge reaeration involves the continuous aeration of sludge after its initial aeration phase. This process enhances or maintains the quality and condition of the sludge, ensuring proper treatment and stabilization before further processing or disposal.
Slurry
A slurry is a mixture of finely ground particles suspended in a liquid. Used in processes like cutting, grinding, shaping, and polishing, slurries facilitate material handling and processing in various industrial applications, including water treatment.
Soda Ash
Soda ash, or sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), is used to raise the pH and total alkalinity of water. By increasing alkalinity, soda ash reduces acidity, stabilizing the water and preventing corrosion in treatment systems.
Sodium Bisulfate
Sodium bisulfate is a dry acid used to lower the pH and total alkalinity of water. It effectively reduces acidity to desired levels, improving the water’s chemical balance and preventing scaling or corrosion.
Sodium Hydrosulfite
Sodium hydrosulfite is a potent reducing agent used in resin cleaners to remove iron fouling from ion exchange resin beds. Its application helps maintain the efficiency of ion exchange processes by restoring resin functionality.
Soft Water
Soft water contains less than 17 parts per million (ppm) of calcium or magnesium, minimizing hardness minerals. This absence of hardness minerals prevents scale formation and improves the effectiveness of soaps and detergents.
Softened Water
Softened water has been treated to reduce hardness minerals to 1.0 grain per gallon (gpg) or less, equivalent to 17.1 milligrams per liter (mg/L), as calcium carbonate. This treatment prevents scaling and enhances the performance of cleaning agents.
Solute
A solute is the dissolved substance in a solution, which can be a solid, liquid, or gas. Solutes are uniformly dispersed in a solvent, forming a homogeneous mixture used in various chemical and industrial processes.
Solvent
A solvent is the liquid, usually water, in which solutes are dissolved to form a solution. The solvent provides the medium for solutes to disperse uniformly, facilitating chemical reactions and processes in water treatment.
Splitter Box
A splitter box is a device that divides incoming water flow into multiple streams. It directs the flow to different points of application or treatment within a system, ensuring efficient distribution and processing.
Stabilizer
Also known as cyanuric acid, a stabilizer is used in swimming pools to protect chlorine from degradation by sunlight. It helps maintain consistent chlorine levels, ensuring effective disinfection and water quality.
Sulfur
Sulfur is a yellow chemical element often associated with water containing hydrogen sulfide gas (H₂S). This gas produces a characteristic rotten egg odor and can cause corrosion, requiring treatment to mitigate its effects on water quality and infrastructure.
Superchlorination
Superchlorination involves applying high doses of chlorine to water to eliminate persistent organic compounds and disinfect effectively. This technique is often used as a shock treatment to address contamination or maintain water safety.
Surfactant
Surfactants are compounds that reduce the surface tension between two liquids or between a liquid and a solid. They serve as detergents, emulsifiers, foaming agents, and dispersants, playing crucial roles in cleaning, stabilization, and dispersion processes.
Suspended Solids
Suspended solids are particles that remain physically suspended in water or sewage. These particles contribute to water turbidity and can be removed through filtration or sedimentation to improve water clarity and quality.
Swelling
Swelling refers to the expansion of an ion exchange resin bed when reactive groups on the resin change forms. This process is reversible, with resins shrinking back in their exhausted state, affecting the efficiency and capacity of the ion exchange system.
Tannin
Tannins are natural substances found in wood, grape skins, seeds, and stems. They impart a bitter flavor to wines and act as natural preservatives. In water, excess tannins can be considered pollutants due to their potential to affect taste and clarity.
Trichloroethylene
Trichloroethylene is a toxic, volatile organic compound used as an industrial solvent. Known for its effective degreasing properties, trichloroethylene poses significant health risks if inhaled or ingested, necessitating careful handling and disposal.
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) measure the concentration of dissolved substances in water, including minerals, salts, and organic matter. High TDS levels can affect water taste and quality, providing essential data for assessing water treatment needs.
Tertiary Treatment
Tertiary treatment is the advanced stage of wastewater treatment that follows primary and secondary stages. This process includes additional filtration, chemical treatment, and disinfection to further reduce pollutants, producing highly purified effluent.
Tertiary Waste Treatment
Tertiary waste treatment extends secondary treatment by involving further aeration or chemical processes. It enhances the removal of residual biological oxygen demand (BOD), nitrogen, phosphorus, and bacteria, often incorporating methods like chlorination or UV treatment.
Thin-film Composite Membrane
A thin-film composite membrane is used in reverse osmosis systems, made from a polyamide-based polymer. It offers resistance to bacterial degradation and a wide pH tolerance but is sensitive to chlorine, requiring protection from exposure to maintain functionality.
Throughput Volume
Throughput volume is the total volume of solution processed through an ion exchange bed before the resin is depleted. This metric helps determine the efficiency, capacity, and lifespan of the ion exchange process, guiding operational adjustments.
Titration
Titration is a laboratory technique that involves the gradual addition of a reagent to a water sample until a specific color change indicates the reaction's completion. It is commonly used to determine the concentration of various water components, aiding in quality control.
Total Acidity
Total acidity measures all acidic components in water, including mineral acids, carbon dioxide, and acid salts. Determined by titration to the phenolphthalein endpoint (pH 8.3), it influences the water’s overall corrosiveness and taste, guiding treatment decisions.
Total Alkalinity
Total alkalinity measures water’s capacity to neutralize acids, reflecting its buffering ability. Higher total alkalinity provides greater resistance to pH changes, crucial for maintaining stable water chemistry in treatment systems.
Total Chlorine
Total chlorine is the combined measure of free available chlorine and combined chlorine (chloramines) present in water. This metric evaluates the effectiveness of chlorination in disinfection processes, indicating the overall chlorine activity in treated water.
Total Dissolved Solids
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) represent the sum of all dissolved minerals, salts, metals, and organic matter in water. TDS levels influence water taste and quality, essential for assessing its suitability for various applications, including consumption and industrial use.
Total Hardness
Total hardness indicates the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions in water, expressed as their calcium carbonate equivalent. High hardness levels can lead to scaling, affect water taste, and interfere with the efficacy of soaps and detergents.
Total Organic Carbon
Total Organic Carbon (TOC) measures the total amount of carbon in organic compounds within a water sample. It assesses the level of organic contamination, providing insights into water quality and treatment requirements.
Total Solids
Total solids encompass all dissolved and suspended solids in water, affecting clarity and quality. Monitoring total solids is crucial for both aesthetic and operational aspects of water use, guiding treatment processes to achieve desired water standards.
Trickling Filter
A trickling filter is a biological treatment process where sewage is distributed over a bed of rocks or media. Microorganisms on the media break down organic matter as the liquid trickles through, followed by clarification to remove biological debris and improve effluent quality.
Trihalomethanes (THMs)
Trihalomethanes (THMs) are carcinogenic organic chemicals formed when chlorine reacts with natural organic matter in water. THMs can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine disinfection, especially in alkaline conditions, and pose health risks, necessitating careful management.
Turbidity
Turbidity measures water clarity based on the scattering and absorption of light by suspended particles. Reported in nephelometric turbidity units (NTU), turbidity levels above 0.5 NTU in drinking water can shield harmful microorganisms from disinfection, impacting water safety.
Ultra Filtration
Ultra filtration is a membrane filtration process that separates high molecular weight solutes and suspended solids from a liquid. It purifies and concentrates macromolecular solutions in various industries, providing an effective barrier for large particles and microorganisms.
Ultrafiltration
Ultrafiltration is a membrane process that removes particles between 0.002 and 0.1 microns in size, situated between reverse osmosis and microfiltration in particle size removal. It is used to separate small colloids and large molecules, ensuring high-quality water filtration.
Ultrapure Water
Ultrapure water has undergone deionization to achieve high resistivity and contains no organic contaminants. While not necessarily sterile, it is used in applications requiring minimal impurities, such as in semiconductor manufacturing and laboratory processes.
Ultraviolet Disinfection
Ultraviolet disinfection uses UV light to kill or inactivate bacteria and other microorganisms in water. This process ensures microbiological safety without chemicals, disrupting the DNA of pathogens and preventing them from reproducing.
Ultraviolet Light
Ultraviolet light is radiation with wavelengths between 100 and 4000 angstroms, shorter than visible light. It is used in water treatment for disinfection, effectively eliminating pathogens by disrupting their DNA, thereby preventing waterborne diseases.
Upflow
Upflow refers to the operational mode in ion exchange systems where the influent enters from the bottom and exits from the top. This configuration helps maintain efficient ion exchange by minimizing channeling and ensuring uniform contact between the water and the resin.
Uranium
Uranium is a naturally occurring radioactive element found in the earth’s crust. The most prevalent isotope, Uranium 238, can pose health risks when present in water, making its detection and management important for water safety and environmental protection.
Venturi
A venturi is a device with a tapered throat that increases fluid velocity and decreases pressure, commonly used to draw regenerant into water conditioning systems. This mechanism enhances the efficiency of mixing and regeneration processes in water treatment.
Virus
Viruses are the smallest known infectious agents capable of causing disease. They multiply by assembling their components in living cells, differentiating them from bacteria, which reproduce through cell division, and posing significant challenges in waterborne disease control.
Void Area
Void area refers to the spaces between resin beads in an ion exchange bed or particles in a filter media bed. It also includes gaps between chunks of salt in a brine tank, affecting flow dynamics and contact efficiency in water treatment systems.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are organic chemicals that easily vaporize at low temperatures. Used as solvents, they pose environmental and health risks due to their volatility and potential toxicity, requiring careful monitoring and control in water and air treatment.
Waste Activated Sludge
Waste activated sludge is the excess sludge removed from the secondary clarifier in the activated sludge process to prevent solids accumulation. Proper management of this sludge is crucial for maintaining treatment efficiency and preventing process imbalances.
Waste Treatment Sludge
Waste treatment sludge is the byproduct of water treatment processes, consisting of accumulated pollutants removed from water. It typically undergoes further treatment for safe disposal or reuse, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
Wastewater
Wastewater is water that contains dissolved or suspended waste materials from residential, commercial, or industrial sources. It can be slightly alkaline or acidic, depending on its composition, and requires treatment to remove contaminants before reuse or discharge.
Water Conditioning
Water conditioning encompasses processes designed to improve water quality by neutralizing, inhibiting, or removing undesirable substances. It includes treatments like softening, filtration, and disinfection to meet specific water quality standards.
Water Hammer
Water hammer is a hydraulic shock phenomenon caused by a sudden change in water flow within a piping system. This pressure surge can damage pipes and fittings, mitigated by installing devices like water hammer arrestors to absorb the shock.
Water Pollution
Water pollution occurs when harmful substances, microorganisms, or waste enter water, making it unsuitable for its intended use. Effective control of water pollution is essential for protecting water quality, health, and the environment.
Water Softening
Water softening reduces or eliminates calcium and magnesium ions, which cause water hardness. Softened water prevents scale formation and improves the effectiveness of soaps and detergents, enhancing water quality for various applications.
WQA (Water Quality Association)
The Water Quality Association (WQA) represents the water treatment industry, providing education, standards, and certification for professionals in point-of-use (POU) and point-of-entry (POE) water conditioning, promoting water quality and treatment innovation.
Xylene
Xylene is a volatile organic compound used as an industrial solvent known for its ability to dissolve substances. It requires careful handling due to its potential health risks, including toxicity and environmental impact.
Zeolite
Zeolite is a natural or synthetic hydrated sodium aluminosilicate used for ion exchange. Although traditionally used in water softening, zeolites have been largely replaced by synthetic organic ion exchange resins due to their improved performance and versatility.
Zero Soft
Zero soft water contains less than 1.0 grain per U.S. gallon (17.1 ppm) of hardness minerals, measured as calcium carbonate. It minimizes scale formation and enhances the performance of cleaning agents, offering high water quality for various applications.
The information provided on this site is subject to change without notice. While we strive to ensure accuracy, please use this information for informational purposes only. Contact Correlux directly for the most up-to-date information.