Water Treatment for Drinking Water | Reverse Osmosis Systems

Common Techniques Used in Drinking Water Treatment

1. Source Water Intake: The first step is to collect water from the source, which can be a surface water body like a river or a groundwater well. Proper intake structures are used to extract water while minimizing the entry of debris and large particles.

2. Coagulation and Flocculation: Chemicals such as aluminum sulfate (alum) or ferric chloride are added to the water to destabilize suspended particles and contaminants. Mixing and gentle agitation during flocculation allow these particles to clump together and form larger particles called floc.

3. Sedimentation: The water is then moved to a sedimentation basin or clarifier, where the floc particles settle to the bottom due to gravity. The settled particles, known as sludge, are removed, while the clarified water is separated for further treatment.

4. Filtration: The water passes through different filtration systems to remove smaller particles, microorganisms, and other impurities. Common filtration methods include rapid sand filtration, multimedia filtration, or granular activated carbon filtration. These filters consist of layers of specific media that trap and retain contaminants as water passes through them.

5. Disinfection: Disinfection is a crucial step to eliminate or inactivate harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Common disinfectants used in drinking water treatment include chlorine, chloramine, ozone, or ultraviolet (UV) light. These disinfectants are carefully dosed to ensure the water remains safe during distribution.

6. pH Adjustment: The pH of the water may need adjustment to optimize disinfection or to prevent corrosion in the distribution system. Lime or sulfuric acid is added to raise or lower the pH as necessary.

7. Fluoridation: In some areas, fluoride is added to drinking water to promote dental health and prevent tooth decay. This process involves controlled dosing of fluoride compounds to achieve optimal levels.

8. Advanced Treatment: Depending on the specific characteristics of the source water and the required water quality standards, additional treatment processes may be employed. These can include advanced oxidation processes (AOP), membrane filtration (such as reverse osmosis), activated carbon adsorption, or ion exchange to further remove specific contaminants or improve water quality.

9. Storage and Distribution: After treatment, the water is stored in clean reservoirs or tanks before being distributed to consumers through a network of pipes. Strict quality control measures are in place to ensure the water maintains its safety and quality during storage and distribution.

10. Monitoring and Testing: Throughout the entire treatment process, regular monitoring and testing are conducted to assess water quality parameters. These can include turbidity, pH, disinfectant levels, microbial counts, and other relevant parameters to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to identify any potential issues.

It's important to note that the specific treatment processes and technologies used in drinking water treatment can vary depending on factors such as the source water quality, regional regulations, and the level of treatment required. The ultimate goal is to provide safe, clean, and potable water to consumers, free from harmful contaminants and pathogens.

For more information please view/download the industry brochure