Water treatment is an absolute necessity when producing safe drinking water and reducing harm to the environment caused by untreated water. But how do you go about treating water, and why are dosing systems so important?
Here, we break down dosing systems, the water treatment process, and how to ensure the process is done correctly.
What is the Dosing System in Water Treatment?
A water dosing system, or a chemical dosing system, is a system that measures, control, and regulates pH levels.
Dosing is often conducted in:
- Potable water
- Industrial water
- Acidic water mixtures
- Manufacturing process water
- Caustic water mixtures
Related article: How to Choose the Right Water Treatment Solution for Your Needs
Why is pH Important in Water Treatment?
pH is a crucial factor in water treatment because it directly affects the chemical and biological processes involved in purifying water. It is essential to:
- Chemical reactions
- Biological processes
- Water quality parameters
- Regulatory compliance
- Overall water stability
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that “the control of pH is a critical component of water treatment and distribution, influencing the effectiveness of coagulation, disinfection and the concentration of plumbing materials (such as lead, copper and nickel) in the final product.”
What are the 7 Steps of Water Treatment?
The water treatment process tends to follow seven key steps. These are:
1. Abstraction and screening
The water treatment process begins by drawing raw water from its source and channelling it through an intake point at the water treatment plant. At this stage, a screen is used to block larger debris, such as sticks, fish, or stones, from entering the plant.
2. Coagulation
As the raw water enters the treatment facility, a coagulant chemical is added. This coagulant causes particles in the water to clump together. To maintain the proper pH level, pH correction chemicals, like acids or alkalis, are sometimes added.
3. Flocculation
Next, a flocculant is added to the water. This chemical helps bind the small, coagulated particles into larger clusters known as ‘floc.’
4. Settlement
Next, the water is directed into a large settlement tank. The tank fills gradually and allows the floc particles to settle and form a sludge blanket at the bottom. This sludge is regularly drained in small quantities to prevent it from rising to the surface.
5. Filtration
After settlement, the water is significantly cleaner and ready for filtration. Filtration in water treatment typically occurs in a rapid gravity sand filter that contains various layers of graded sand. These sand layers further filter the water, making it clear and free of remaining particles.
6. Disinfection
The final step in the water treatment system process is disinfection. This step eliminates any remaining bacteria in the water, usually through the controlled addition of chlorine in liquid or gas form. In some plants, the water also undergoes ultraviolet (UV) treatment, where it’s exposed to ultraviolet light for additional disinfection.
7. Storage
Once treated, the water is pumped to a reservoir, usually located on high ground. These reservoirs store the treated water before it is released into the distribution network. The drinking water then travels through mains pipes to its destination.
While you now know the seven steps of water treatment, there is one more essential decision you need to make: choosing a reliable, established partner.
Campion: Leaders in Water Treatment Systems
Campion’s water treatment systems are renowned for providing safe, clean drinking water.
We supply and install chlorination and fluoridation water treatment systems designed to your unique specifications. Our engineers carry out chemical and bacterial water tests, equipment servicing, service and maintenance contracts as well as supplying all necessary salt and media. We also offer a wide range of treatment services, including ultraviolet water purification systems which are the most effective method for disinfecting bacteria from the water.
Our treatment services cover:
- System design, install, and commissioning
- Water quality testing
- Chemical dosing
- Rainwater harvesting
- Iron + Manganese Removal
- pH Correction
…and much more.
To find out how we can help with your water treatment processes, contact us today.
