FAQs ABOUT WATER PROBLEMS & DEPOSIT CONTROL

FREQUENTLY ASKED  QUESTIONS

Water is simultaneously one of the most precious and yet potentially most abused and/or dangerous substances. Clean water is absolutely essential for safety and heath considerations.

THREE BASIC CAUSES OF WATER/FLUID RELATED PROBLEMS

The End Results of Water Problems

Materials that Deposit on Equipment and Cause Water/Fluid Problems

Why do I need TWT fluid treatment systems?

What does the TWT patented Deposit Control System do?

How long does it take to see results after installing TWT  systems?

On what type of water or other liquids will TWT systems work?

What happens to the pipes and equipment once the scale is removed?

Does all the water have to flow through the TWT systems?

What makes the TWT systems better than other non-chemical systems?

What is the TWT Deposit Control System?

Does the TWT Deposit Control System prevent scale buildup?

Will old deposits be removed?

Are chemicals used?

Are chemicals required in a boiler using the TWT Deposit Control System?

Do TWT systems eliminate the need for toxic chemicals?

Does the TWT Deposit Control System cause corrosion?

Does the TWT Deposit Control System reduce corrosion?

Do TWT Deposit Control and IonGuard systems control algae and bacteria?

When should TWT systems be turned off?

In recirculating cooling systems, can cooling water bleed be eliminated?

What water testing will be required?

How much power does the TWT System use?

What are the economic benefits of the TWT System?

How does the cost of the TWT Deposit Control System compare with the cost of chemicals?

Does the TWT Deposit Control System eliminate the need for toxic chemicals?

Does the TWT Deposit Control System reduced water and sewer costs?

Does the TWT Deposit Control System reduce maintenance costs?

Does the TWT Deposit Control System have a low operating cost?

Compatibility and Versatility

 

THREE BASIC CAUSES OF WATER/FLUID RELATED PROBLEMS
Cause: Scale 


Problems:
Loss of heat transfer efficiency 
Flow restriction in pipes and frozen values 
Back pressure increases energy needed to pump 
Reduced reaction vessel capacity
Localized corrosion
Visible surface scale objectionable

Cause: Bioflim

Problems:
Loss of heat transfer efficiency
Biocorrosion (both general and local)
Sludge
Disease and odors

Cause: Adverse water chemistry

Problem:
General corrosion

The End Results of Water Problems

● Wasted water ● Ruined Equipment ● High Energy Cost ● Productivity losses ● Product Contamination or quality problems ● Disease and odor in the water environment

Materials that Deposit on Equipment and Cause Water/Fluid Problems

Materials may be animal, vegetable, mineral, or corrosive water chemistry. The sources of the materials include: Pollution; wind borne dirt, bacteria, and algae; chemical additives; and process components themselves. Some of the materials can grow; such as bacteria, algae, fungus, etc.

Treatment

The bottom line is that if problem-causing materials are controlled, then many of the problems are eliminated. Treatment options include removal and control.

Removal involves physical or chemical cleaning; filtration; ion exchange; softening; demineralization, reverse osmosis. Control involves adding chemicals or ozone, or electronically conditioning the water. The following discussion address the Triangular Wave Deposit Control Technology.

Why do I need TWT fluid treatment systems?

TWT comprehensive fluid treatment systems help virtually all fluid-related conditions and produce high quality fluid throughout the entire facility. A complete TWT treatment system may incorporate all or only some of the following items depending upon the nature of the problem and its proper solution.

Deposit Control: For use wherever water and other fluids flow, the patented Triangular Wave Deposit Control System removes the adhesive properties of colloids and particulates in the fluid stream, preventing them from depositing on pipe or vessel surfaces.  Scale and biofilm no longer accumulate, preventing bacteria growth and biocorrosion, and reducing water and energy consumption.

Filtration: For facilities located in rural areas, where the source of water may be ponds, wells or streams with high exposure to contamination from airborne pollutants, surface run-off, agricultural or industrial waste or similar dangers, the first step in achieving clean water is to install a primary filtration device at point of entry that effectively removes particulate matter and similar debris. The second step is point-of-use filtration units at water taps and/or in the kitchen and bathroom, as well as showerhead filters in the bath.

Disinfection: In facilities lacking adequate treatment systems with effective disinfectant methods for treating water-borne microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, etc.) that threaten heath, or when existing systems are inadequate or poorly managed, the ultraviolet method of disinfection produces water that is disease and pathogen-free.  UV effectively kills 99.9% of microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses.

Purification: Keeping swimming pools free of bacteria and algae is a constant battle. The standard treatment is chlorine. Chlorine brings with it handling safety concerns, unpleasant eye irritation, bleaching and premature wear of clothes, and deterioration of equipment. Another common treatment practice is “ionization”. TWT's IonGuard Purification System, in conjunction with the Deposit Control System, offers a safe and economical replacement for chlorine or other chemical treatment. Chemical treatment may be reduced by 80% (and even more), making the swimming experience much more gratifying.  IonGuard systems are also appropriate for use in cooling towers, where algae is also a concern.

Filtration/ disinfection/ purification: For addition technical information, please see the appropriate product and technology sections on this website.

Deposit Control: The TWT Deposit Control System provides an array of benefits.

The increased cost of maintenance, repair, downtime, energy and water makes it increasingly important to maintain scale-free equipment systems to minimize loss. Scale buildup on heat transfer surfaces can reduce heat transfer by 20% or more, cutting efficiency by more than 25%.

  • The TWT Deposit Control System will prevent scale build-up, maintaining clean surfaces for maximum thermal transfer in heating or cooling systems.
  • The TWT Deposit Control System improves efficiency of all water-fed appliances and extends their useful life (saves 5% to 30% on water heating bills.)
  • The TWT Deposit Control System provides the effects of softened water without chemicals by neutralizing calcium hardness effects in water.
  • The TWT Deposit Control System is safe and maintenance-free.
  • The TWT Deposit Control System pays for itself quickly and provides continuous savings.
  • The TWT Deposit Control System with solenoid wrap is non-invasive.

What does the TWT patented Deposit Control System do? 

The TWT patented Deposit Control System prevents new scale build-up and removes existing scale over a period of time in equipment such as boilers, heat exchanges, ice machines, cooling towers, domestic water systems and other water related products. Scale particles and colloids in the water receive a treatment that causes them to remain suspended and away from the surface of the equipment. The effect of the Triangular Wave System lasts for many days, allowing  continuous, effective treatment throughout the water system, when in operation.

The Triangular Wave System uses a sophisticated microprocessor and current source power supply to modulate both the frequency and the amplitude of the current. The frequency varies from 2,000 Hz, to 7,000 Hz, and the amplitude (power) varies from 0 to over 1,000 mAmp (depending on the size of the unit), by low frequency modulation.

The current to the solenoid is changing 100% of the time; therefore, there is an induced voltage applied to the colloidal particles (scale ions) and water molecules 100% of the time, unlike square wave generators. The overall effect is that all of the water or other fluid is treated right through to the center of the pipe.

Not a softener, these advanced electronic deposit control systems effectively combat the conditions that produce the negative effects of hard water, without imposing the negative consequences of water softener use.  Used across industrial and commercial sites, they are also suitable for residential treatment.  Water feels more silky and smooth, and skin and hair are without the film added by sodium or chemicals and thus are more open to the positive effects of personal care products.  

How long does it take to see results after installing TWT systems?

With preventive scale buildup, the result can be seen immediately. When installing the TWT Deposit Control System on an application containing scale, the rate of removal depends on the thickness of the scale, the hardness, the flow rate, plus other criteria. However, usually you will see results of scale removal within 30-60 days.

On what type of water or other liquids, will TWT systems work?

In-field applications, as well as laboratory tests, have proven that the TWT Deposit Control System is effective on all types of water and many, many types of fluids.  Applications range from very good quality water to  extreme conditions such as treating slurry at sewage treatment plants.

What happens to the pipe and equipment once the scale is removed?

The piping and system will remain clean, but should be inspected for leaks upon the removal of scale. In some instances, e.g., old piping, only the scale was preventing the pipes from leaking; the removal of the scale may reveal leaks that had previously developed. TWT advises that any time a TWT System is installed on an old piece of equipment, the user be aware of the fact that, once the scale is removed, the system could possibly leak. This is true in pipes, heat exchangers, boilers, or any other piece of equipment.

Does all the water have to flow through the TWT system?

We recommend that all the water flow through the deposit control system, so that the water itself can carry the treatment throughout the piping system, helping to maintain it.

TWT Bypass System: The TWT side stream bypass water treatment system uses revolutionary electronic deposit control and purification technology to treat water in cooling tower and other recirculating water systems. For addition technical support review website.

What makes TWT systems better than other non-chemical systems?

The TWT Deposit Control System is a revolutionary new design, which allows you to eliminate screens, probes, and/or other foreign objects within the contact chamber, so there is no obstruction of flow. The electrical current penetrates through the pipe and into the fluid stream.

The older technologies, such as square wave, only provide a change in solenoid current during the polarity change. This severely limits the duration of the induced voltage to 5% or less of the available time, and therefore, the water is only being treated less than 5% of the time , and at a low induced voltage.

What is the TWT Deposit Control System?

Highly economical and effective method of water conditioning that uses the physical and electrochemical effects of electrostatic fields to disperse bacteria and tiny particles that form scale and bio-film. 
Not a softener, these advanced, chemical-free electronic deposit control systems effectively combat the conditions that produce the negative effects of hard water, without imposing the negative consequences of water softener or chemical use.  

Does the TWT Deposit Control System prevent scale build-up?

Scale particles in the water receive an enhanced surface charge that causes them to repel each other and from the walls of the equipment. The bond between old scale deposits and the vessel walls also  dissolves, allowing old deposits to fall away.

What happens to the minerals once they are placed in suspension in a closed, or semi-closed loop system?

Mineral concentrations will build up over a period of time and must be bled off manually, automatically, or on a continuous bleed off the solid reach a pre-determined level

Note: This same procedure must be followed when using chemical water treatment. In fact, it should be followed with untreated water.

Will old deposits be removed?

The bond between old deposits and the metal surfaces is usually  dissolved. Existing deposits will fall away. Removal process occurs over a period of time. Recommend starting with a clean system. 

The Deposit Control System is non-invasive and non-chemical by design, and is suitable for nearly all applications requiring hard water treatment.  The treatment process does not add anything to the fluids, nor take anything out.  The Deposit Control System is designed to prevent new scale build-up and to remove old scale; if piping or equipment has suffered corrosion prior to the installation of a TWT Deposit Control System, the removal of this scale may potentially reveal cracks or pinholes in this piping or equipment that had been held together by this scale.  If structural damage or corrosion is suspected to exist, appropriate measures should be taken by the purchaser to alleviate this condition prior to or in conjunction with the installation of the TWT Deposit Controller.  Equipment owners must continue standard infrastructure and equipment maintenance procedures as recommended by the manufacturers of all piping and fluid-fed equipment.

Are chemicals used?

No chemicals, acids, or other additives are generally used. Under special circumstances biocides or corrosion inhibitors may be used, and the TWT System will enhance their efficiency.

In general, the use of chemicals and sodium in treatment is deleterious to metals and to a variety of seals and packing on equipment. High temperatures in water exacerbate these conditions. The handling (or mishandling) of  chemicals is dangerous to equipment, people, and the earth.

Acids are used to retard scale formation, and biocides such as chlorine are used to retard the formation of biofilm (slime). Chemicals work best in situations where the water is bled off regularly so that the concentrations of scale-forming salts and slime-forming bacteria are kept low. Triangular Wave Systems can be configured to work on water with extremely high TDS, allowing the water to be used more efficiently and conserved, without chemicals, because upgraded models can be applied where needed or desired, or multiple systems can be used in series.  The nature of the system allows for this flexibility, making it an effective answer for nearly any situation.

Are chemicals required in a boiler using the TWT Deposit Control System?

TWT Deposit Control Systems prevent scale buildup in the boiler. As steam leaves the boiler and travels through the steam pipes, its natural tendency is to turn acidic since all solids remain in the boiler. Therefore, oxygen scavengers are recommended for boiler use as a steam line treatment. This is true regardless of whether the boiler has a TWT Deposit Control System installed on it or not.

Does the TWT Deposit Control System eliminate the need for toxic chemicals?

Yes, if so desired, and with the exception described above for boilers and oxygen scavengers.  The TWT systems have been shown to perform at least as well as chemical treatment, and with no recurring chemical expense. No handling and storage of chemicals on site, nor regulatory compliance is necessary because there are no chemicals in use.

Does the TWT Deposit Control System cause corrosion?

NO! It prevents general corrosion by aligning naturally occurring protective ions against the metal surface, maintaining surfaces free of bacterial accumulation and other deposits, preventing corrosion and bio-corrosion.

Does the TWT Deposit Control System reduce corrosion?

Reduces corrosion throughout the fluid system. Reduces biocorrosion by preventing the formation of biofilm on vessel surfaces where bacteria can then develop and can attack the metal. With higher concentration ratios and higher TDS, the pH will be higher and there will be much less tendency for corrosion. The long lasting Triangular Wave Treatment effect helps control corrosion throughout the fluid system.

The Deposit Control System is non-invasive and non-chemical by design, and is suitable for nearly all applications requiring hard water treatment.  The treatment process does not add anything to the fluids, nor take anything out.  The Deposit Control System is designed to prevent new scale build-up and to remove old scale; if piping or equipment has suffered corrosion prior to the installation of a TWT Deposit Control System, the removal of this scale may potentially reveal cracks or pinholes in this piping or equipment that had been held together by this scale.  If structural damage or corrosion is suspected to exist, appropriate measures should be taken by the purchaser to alleviate this condition prior to or in conjunction with the installation of the TWT Deposit Controller.  Equipment owners must continue standard infrastructure and equipment maintenance procedures as recommended by the manufacturers of all piping and fluid-fed equipment.

Do the TWT Deposit Control and IonGuard Systems control algae and bacteria?

Bacteria and algae must attach to something before they can feed and reproduce. The TWT systems keep the bacteria, algae, and their food dispersed in the water, repelled from surfaces, and away from their biofilm breeding ground. Biofilm-forming bacteria have a life span of about two to four hours. Therefore, biofilm-forming bacteria will die too, because they are unable to attach to equipment surfaces.

When should the TWT Deposit Control System be turned off?

The system should be kept on all of the time, except as follows: it should be disconnected during installation, removal, or for other major plumbing infrastructure or electrical system repair. The TWT Deposit Control System is constructed of high quality, solid state components which enable it to operate for a virtually indefinite amount of time. We do advise, however, that periodic observation of the indicator light either on the unit itself or on the front of the control panel be made and logged. This will allow you to verify that the unit has not been unplugged, and if any component in the circuitry malfunctions, the red operating light or indicator light will go on.

In recirculating cooling systems, can cooling water bleed be eliminated?

A continuous bleed is recommend. Depending on operating conditions and make up water quality, concentration ratios above 6 can be tolerated. Little is accomplished by maintaining higher ratios and problem opportunities are increased.

What water testing will be required?

No acid is fed and no pH readings are necessary. Periodic checks of the concentration ratio of TDS in the water should be made and the ratio is controlled with minimum bleed rates.

How much power does the TWT Deposit Control System use?

TWT Residential and Light Commercial Deposit Control Systems cost about 5 to 10 cents per day to operate depending on the size of the system.  Industrial and custom systems may go slightly higher.

Not only does the TWT Deposit Control System cost so little to operate, it can also offer energy savings of 3% to 30%, because scale-free pipe surfaces are less rough, pumps run more efficiently, and heat transfer is more efficient.

What are the economic benefits of the TWT Deposit Control System?

The combined reduction of water and chemical costs is enough to pay for the Triangular Wave System in as little as 9-18 months. With the Triangular Wave System, the system can run at higher concentration ratios; meaning the amount of water removed as blowdown and the corresponding sewer charges are greatly reduced. With no chemicals being added, the requirements for pretreatment of blowdown are eliminated.

The payback period can be further reduced, because:
Labor cost for maintaining the chemical system will be reduced
Labor costs to clean the vessel surface will be reduced
Costs to replace corroded parts will be reduced
Hidden cost associated with production shutdown will be reduced
Equipment life will be extended

The TWT System itself requires no maintenance. There is little electrical current flow in an electromagnetic system. The TWT System cost about 5 cents per day to operate. Cost savings continue long after the payback period is over. 

Life Cycle Cost Savings
Triangular Wave Deposits Control Systems will operate effectively for many years. The total savings over a 20-year life may be well over $200,000, or even more, depending on the system and industry application.

How does the cost of the TWT Deposit Control System  compare with chemicals?

Due to the fact that so many variable occur in chemical treatment, the costs are different for everyone, but in most applications if the system is begin treated properly with chemicals, the customer will attain a 9-24 month payback. We will assist you in computing the actual payback when data pertinent to the application is submitted to us for evaluation.

Does the TWT Deposit Control System reduced water and sewer costs?

The time between the need to blowdown is extended, and water savings could be 50% or more. With TWT deposit control the system can run at higher concentration ratios, meaning the amount of water removed as blowdown and the corresponding sewer charges are greatly reduced.  Since little or no chemicals are added, the requirements for pre-treatment for discharge of blowdown  are eliminated, and additional savings are generated.

Does the TWT Deposit Control System reduce maintenance costs?

Labor costs for maintaining the chemical additive systems will be reduced. Labor costs to clean the vessel surfaces will be reduced. Cost to replace corroded parts will be reduced.

Does the TWT Deposit Control System have a low operating cost?

The TWT Deposit Control System requires no maintenance and costs about 5 to 10 cents per day to operate.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Triangular Wave System is compatible with all fluid-based process equipment and systems, including those found in residential,  commercial, and industrial environments. Triangular Wave System solenoid coils and reaction chambers can be systems-integrated to deal with any equipment or construction configurations and still provide the same maximum fluid conditioning.  TWT products work to enhance the performance of all water and fluid treatment technologies including reverse osmosis and ozone generators.


In conclusion…it's clear that The Triangular Wave Deposit Control System features and benefits make sense from  operational, economic, and safety points-of-view, offering effective and cost-efficient performance.

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