Connecting a UV system to other equipment occasionally yields the intended outcome, but in certain scenarios, it may result in an adverse effect.
The UV system has become a vital part of the water treatment process. It is no longer an isolated piece of equipment as it has been integrated with other components such as chemical controllers, pumps, and filters. This new integrated approach to water treatment provides additional layers of protection. It ensures that the water is free of harmful substances.
Linking a UV system to other equipment only sometimes produces the desired result. In some cases, it could cause the opposite effect. For example, suppose the controller is not properly configured. In that case, it may switch off the UV system at the wrong time. Also, if the connection between the UV system and the other equipment is not secure, it could cause malfunctions. This would affect the facility’s overall performance.
Aquatic facilities must have a well-designed chemical control system to ensure proper operation of the UV system and other equipment. This can be accomplished by selecting a reputable manufacturer and working with experts to install and maintain the system. Regular monitoring can also prevent potential problems and ensure optimal performance of the UV system and the facility.
With its advanced functions, the chemical controller of an aquatic facility is an integral component. It plays a critical role in managing various aspects of the facility. With the integration of input/output (I/O) ports, the chemical controller can connect multiple equipment and ensure smooth operation. For instance, the controller receives information from the filter about the beginning of a backwash cycle and shuts down the heater and UV system. The reason is that the flow rate decreases during backwashing. Thus, the heater or UV system could overheat and be damaged. Once the backwash is completed, the chemical controller sends a signal to the heater and UV system, instructing them to resume operation.
For example, imagine a water treatment facility equipped with a UV system and a pump. Both work together to ensure the safety of the drinking water. However, in the event of a breakdown, the UV system and the pump are designed to act as mutual backup. When the UV system stops working or drops below the required level, the UV system will signal the pump to stop. Similarly, the UV system will shut down if the pump fails. This automation creates a seamless design that protects both users and equipment. Whatever the situation, both the UV system and the pump will always be in sync; As a result, the facility remains safe.
Aquatic operators are often faced with the dilemma of integrating their ppm probes with the UV system. The idea is that the UV system responds vigorously to the presence of chloramines. The UV system can effectively maintain a balanced aquatic environment by turning on or increasing its power when chloramine levels exceed the desired limit and turning off or reducing power when they fall below. To make an informed decision, it is crucial to understand two essential characteristics of the UV system;
Firstly, the UV system has control over the brightness of its UV lamps through a feature known as variable power or ramping power. This technology is equipped with sensors that constantly monitor factors, such as: water quality, lamp age, and fouling in the quartz sleeve and sensor window, adapting the power of the lights accordingly. The UV system can adjust its power output to low, medium, or high levels. It makes fine-tuned adjustments of just 1% when necessary.
Secondly, in the underwater world, it is a well-established fact that swimming pools contain chloramines. As a result, the aquatic industry has concluded that a UV system emitting a minimum of 60 mJ/cm2 can destroy these chloramines effectively. Any lower radiation level may have some effect on harmful pathogens but does not reduce the chloramines in the pool. The good news is that increasing the dose above 60 mJ/cm2 does not lead to further reduction of chloramines. It only serves to consume more energy without any gain. To quickly eliminate chloramines, the secret is to increase the pool turn-over time, not the intensity of the UV system.
Think of a sophisticated cruise control system, adjusting the engine’s output in response to changes in the process. The UV system utilizes only the necessary power to achieve the desired results, conserving energy while ensuring optimal performance. This innovative feature elevates the UV system to new heights of efficiency and control.
Imagine a sleek sports car cruising down the highway, gliding along the road. But what happens when the road starts to climb, and the car faces a steep incline? The cruise control kicks in and pushes hard on the accelerator to reach the set speed. When chloramine levels start to rise, the UV system increases its power to destroy harmful chemicals. When the road levels out and the car starts to go downhill, the cruise control releases the accelerator and slows down.
Similarly, when the chloramines begin to decrease, the UV system drops to its minimum power level. This delivers a less potent dose.
The constant cycle of maximum and minimum power can take its toll on our UV system. Increased wear and tear and, as a result, the performance can be impacted. Like a driver stuck on highway patrol, our UV system can have trouble keeping up with the demands placed on it. By linking it with the chemical controller’s ppm probes, we create a smarter, more efficient solution. It operates at peak performance and delivers smooth, consistent operation.
Linking a UV system in an aquatic installation forms an indestructible link between the UV system and the ppm probes of the chemical controller.
In the field of UV water treatment, not all forms of automation and integration are beneficial.
The most effective and efficient solution to this issue is enabling the UV system to autonomously regulate its power output, ensuring a consistent 60 mJ/cm2 dose. This represents the cornerstone of an ideal approach.
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Nuvonic is the innovator in sustainable UV technology for water, air and surface disinfection on a global scale. Our mission is to support nature’s purity with science by protecting people and processes from harmful contamination.
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