Why is Corrosion Control so Important?

In the realm of water treatment, ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water is paramount. One critical aspect of this is controlling corrosion within water distribution systems, a key factor in meeting the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule compliance. Effective corrosion control not only protects public health but also extends the lifespan of water infrastructure, thereby reducing long-term costs and supporting municipalities across the nation.

 

Understanding the Lead and Copper Rule

The EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule, established in 1991, aims to minimize lead and copper levels in drinking water. Lead and copper primarily enter the water supply through the corrosion of plumbing materials containing these metals. When corrosion occurs, lead and copper can leach into the water, posing significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women. As well as this, updates to this rule are still forthcoming, the last being in October of 2024. To remain compliant with new regulations, water systems must stay vigilant.

 

The Role of Corrosion Control

Corrosion control is a preventative measure that involves adjusting the water chemistry to prevent the leaching of metals from pipes into the drinking water. This can be achieved through several methods, including:

• pH Adjustment: Optimizing pH level to reduce the solubility of lead and copper.
• Corrosion Inhibitors: Adding chemicals, such as phosphates, can curb corrosion by forming a protective barrier inside pipes.
• Alkalinity Control: Balancing alkalinity to stabilize pH levels and reduce corrosivity.

 

Strategies for Effective Corrosion Control

Implementing an effective corrosion control program involves a multi-faceted approach that combines material selection, water treatment chemicals, regular monitoring and maintenance, pH and alkalinity adjustment, and public education.

Choosing non-corrosive materials like plastic or stainless steel, applying protective coatings, and adding chemicals such as phosphates to form a protective film inside pipes are essential steps. Consistent monitoring of water quality parameters and regular system maintenance help manage corrosion by-products, while adjusting pH and alkalinity reduces water corrosivity. Public education about these efforts fosters transparency and community support. Effective implementation of these strategies requires technical expertise, advanced products, and a commitment to continuous improvement, which Hawkins, Inc. excels at providing.

 

The Hawkins, Inc. Advantage

Founded in 1938, Hawkins, Inc. has built a legacy of excellence in the chemical industry. Our almost century-long experience has allowed us to

develop a deep understanding of the unique challenges associated with water treatment and corrosion control. Hawkins approaches customer challenges scientifically leveraging our in-house laboratory services. As well as this, our in-house formulating and manufacturing capabilities empower us to produce effective and efficient products consistently. By controlling the production process, we ensure that our corrosion control products are of exceptional quality and reliability. This level of control allows us to respond quickly to the ever-evolving needs of our clients and the regulatory landscape.

 

Meeting Customers’ Expectations Comes First

What truly sets Hawkins apart is our customer-centric approach to doing business. We believe in building strong, lasting relationships with our clients, centered on trust, transparency, and exceptional service. Our team of experts works collaboratively with municipalities and water treatment facilities to tailor solutions that precisely meet their needs.

 

Conclusion

Corrosion control is a vital component in achieving EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule compliance and safeguarding public health. At Hawkins, Inc., we are dedicated to providing superior products and services that make this possible. Our in-house expertise, commitment to quality, and extensive industry experience set us apart as a trusted partner in water treatment. Together, we can ensure safe, clean drinking water for communities across the nation. Thank you for your time in reading this article – we look forward to helping you improve your water treatment processes!

For more information on how Hawkins, Inc. can assist with your corrosion control needs, please contact us at (877) 795 8719 or fill out a contact form on our corrosion control page!

 

About Hawkins

Hawkins, Inc. was founded in 1938 and is a leading specialty chemical and ingredients company that formulates, distributes, blends and manufactures chemicals and ingredients for its Industrial, Water Treatment, and Health & Nutrition customers.  We create value for our customers through superb service and support, quality products, and personalized applications.

Proper Set-Up of a Chlorine Room for Safe and Effective Use and Storage

At Hawkins, Inc., we understand the critical importance of safety and efficiency when it comes to the use and storage of chlorine in water treatment facilities. Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant widely used in both potable water and wastewater treatment, but its handling requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure safety and effectiveness. This blog outlines key considerations for setting up a chlorine room, focusing on environment, proper equipment usage, and emergency protocols.

 

Temperature Control

A crucial aspect of chlorine room setup is maintaining an appropriate temperature. Chlorine gas is highly reactive and can become unstable at higher temperatures, posing significant risks. Chlorine containers should be stored at a normal indoor temperature of 60° to 70°F (15° to 20°C) to facilitate effective gas discharge. The temperature in these areas must never exceed 130°F (54°C) to avoid the risk of melting the chlorine containers’ fusible plug and potential overpressure. Ongoing monitoring of temperature and not installing space heaters in your chlorine room are excellent practices to mitigating this risk.

 

Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for safety in chlorine rooms. Ventilation requirements should be determined on a site-specific basis, often guided by fire or building codes. Exhaust air intake should be located at or near floor level since chlorine gas is heavier than air and will collect at lower levels. The exhaust air discharge should be positioned at a safe location. An elevated fresh-air inlet must be provided and should be positioned to ensure adequate cross-ventilation

 

Gas Feed Equipment Maintenance

Regular maintenance of gas feed equipment is essential to prevent malfunctions and ensure safety. Chlorinators, which are used to feed chlorine gas into water, must be installed correctly to avoid liquid chlorine carryover. Any liquid chlorine entering the gas chlorinator can cause severe damage and safety hazards. Recommendations include keeping the storage room at a stable temperature, creating a schedule for both regular inspections and routine preventative maintenance, protecting gas piping from cold drafts, and considering low-level heat tracing for steel pressure piping.

 

Leak Detection Systems

Installing leak detection systems in chlorine rooms is a proactive measure to enhance safety. These systems can quickly identify the presence of dangerous chlorine gas or elevated temperatures and trigger alarms, allowing for immediate response to potential leaks. Monitors should be designed and maintained to alert on-site personnel or remote responders in the event of a release. Regular calibration and periodic testing are necessary to ensure the reliability of these systems.

 

Chlorine Scales

Using scales to monitor the amount of chlorine in containers is another key aspect of chlorine room management. Scales provide accurate measurements of chlorine usage and help detect any discrepancies that may indicate leaks or other issues. Regular checks and maintenance of the scales are recommended to maintain their accuracy and reliability.

 

Emergency Protocols

Having robust emergency protocols in place is critical. This includes having CI Emergency Kits or Cylinder Recovery Vessels and trained responders to stop or contain chlorine leaks. Automatic actuators or valves, which can be activated by a chlorine monitor, fire alarm, or remote switch, are also recommended. These devices are now required by various fire and building codes and play a crucial role in minimizing risks during a chlorine leak.

 

Conclusion

Setting up a chlorine room involves a comprehensive approach to safety and efficiency. By adhering to these guidelines, water treatment facilities can ensure the safe use and storage of chlorine, protecting both their employees and the community they serve. At Hawkins, Inc., we are committed to providing the best practices and solutions for chlorine management, supporting our customers in maintaining secure and effective water treatment operations.

For more detailed information on chlorine safety and handling, refer to the Chlorine Institute’s guidelines and resources.

 

About Hawkins

Hawkins, Inc. was founded in 1938 and is a leading specialty chemical and ingredients company that formulates, distributes, blends and manufactures chemicals and ingredients for its Industrial, Water Treatment, and Health & Nutrition customers.  We create value for our customers through superb service and support, quality products, and personalized applications.

Benefits and Protocols for Optimal Storage, Rotation, Equipment, and Tank Cleaning

 

In the realm of water treatment, high-strength sodium hypochlorite (10% and 12.5% bleach) is an indispensable agent due to its potent disinfecting properties. Ensuring its effectiveness and safety requires proper handling and maintenance. The Hawkins Bleach Guide highlights best practices for bleach storage, rotation, equipment usage, and tank cleaning, focusing on the benefits of adhering to these protocols to maintain the efficacy and safety of this powerful chemical.

Optimal Storage Practices

Proper storage of bleach is essential to maintaining performance and ensuring safety. Here are several best practices for sodium hypochlorite storage:

• Storing bleach in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources prevents degradation, keeping it effective over its intended shelf life. Ideally, the storage temperature should be between 50°F and 70°F (10°C and 21°C).
• Ensuring that the storage area is well-ventilated can prevent the buildup of hazardous chlorine vapors, promoting a safer environment.
• Using appropriate containment measures is crucial. Bleach should remain in its original container or a supplier-specified high-density polyethylene (HDPE) tank to avoid leaks and spills, which maintains its integrity and reduces the risk of accidental chemical reactions.
• Bleach must be stored separately from incompatible substances, such as acids and ammonia, to prevent dangerous reactions. Clear labeling of containers with contents and dates helps in tracking usability and avoids the use of degraded or expired bleach.

Effective Rotation Strategies

High-strength bleach has a limited shelf life of about 30 – 60 days. Implementing an effective rotation strategy maximizes its efficacy and minimizes waste.

• The First-In, First-Out (FIFO) principle is vital for using older bleach before newer stock, which ensures potent bleach for critical tasks.
• Conducting regular inventory checks helps monitor the condition and age of bleach stock, allowing you to identify and dispose of any that has degraded.
• Paying close attention to expiration dates and prioritizing the usage of near-expiry bleach for non-critical tasks can further reduce waste.
• Keeping a detailed log of bleach purchases and usage facilitates better inventory management and ensures a consistent supply of effective bleach.

Proper Equipment Usage

Using the right equipment is fundamental to safe and efficient bleach handling. Here are a few recommendations on proper equipment usage:

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and goggles, to protect against accidental spills and splashes, which can cause skin irritation or injury.
• Containers designed to withstand bleach’s corrosive nature, such as those made of plastic or rubber, prevent leaks and chemical reactions, ensuring safe storage and handling.
• Using properly specified metering pumps, tubing, and other equipment helps to ensure accurate measuring and reduces the risk of leaks and spills.
• For cleaning with bleach, choose tools that are compatible with its corrosive effects. Plastic or rubber tools are ideal, as they resist degradation and extend the life of your equipment.
• Avoid using anything made of metal or natural fibers that could come in contact with bleach, which can react adversely and degrade it over time.

Comprehensive Tank Cleaning

Regular tank cleaning is essential for industries using large quantities of bleach, such as water treatment plants. Listed below are best practices in bleach tank cleaning and maintenance:

• Establishing a regular cleaning schedule, typically every three to six months, helps prevent buildups of chlorates, maintaining the bleach’s effectiveness and prolonging the tank’s life (usually 7 – 10 years or per the manufacturer’s recommendations).
• The cleaning process involves draining the tank completely, using a spray nozzle to rinse the inside of the tank walls with clean water to remove any residue or buildup. Then either drain or pump the rinse water and dispose of it properly.
• After cleaning, inspecting the tank for signs of corrosion, leaks, or damage ensures that any issues are addressed promptly, preventing contamination and maintaining bleach quality.
• Keeping detailed records of tank cleaning and maintenance activities to track the maintenance history and ensures compliance with safety regulations.

Conclusion

Bleach is an invaluable tool for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation across various water treatment processes. By adhering to best practices for storage, rotation, equipment usage, and tank cleaning, you can ensure that bleach remains effective and safe to use. Implementing these guidelines not only extends the life of your bleach supply but also promotes a safer working environment, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Incorporate these best practices into your bleach handling protocols to maximize the benefits of this powerful chemical and maintain the highest standards of hygiene and safety in your operations!

 

 

Safeguarding Community Health: Why Water Quality Matters

As the summer sun heats up, pools and aquatic facilities become popular spots for fun and relaxation. However, behind the refreshing waters and joyful splashes lies a critical aspect of pool maintenance: water treatment. Maintaining pristine water quality is essential for ensuring a safe, healthy, and enjoyable swimming experience. Proper water treatment not only keeps the water clear and inviting but also prevents the growth of harmful bacteria and algae, protects swimmers’ health, and extends the life of your pool equipment. At Hawkins Inc., we understand the value of top-notch water treatment and are here to support you.

The Hidden Dangers of Poor Water Quality

Neglecting proper water treatment can result in significant health risks, from minor irritations like red eyes and itchy skin to serious outbreaks of recreational water illnesses (RWIs). Contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa can thrive in untreated or improperly treated water, leading to infections and illnesses among pool users. In addition, imbalanced water chemistry can damage pool infrastructure, leading to increased maintenance costs and potential liabilities.

Public pools are under constant scrutiny to meet health and safety regulations. Maintaining proper water chemistry and hygiene is crucial for compliance with local and federal standards, ensuring that your facilities remain open, safe, and welcoming to the community. Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to prevent issues such as high bacteria count, chemical imbalances, and equipment malfunctions.

Key Elements of Effective Water Treatment

Effective water treatment for public pools involves a combination of advanced technologies and consistent maintenance practices. Here are the critical components:

• Disinfection: Regular and effective disinfection with chlorine or alternative sanitizers is essential to kill harmful microorganisms.
• pH Balance: Keeping pH levels between 7.2 and 7.8 helps optimize disinfectant efficacy and minimizes skin and eye irritation for swimmers.
• Filtration: High-quality filtration systems are necessary to remove debris, particulates, and contaminants, ensuring water clarity and safety.
• Algae Prevention: Preventative measures, including algaecides, are crucial to inhibit algae growth and maintain water aesthetics and safety.
• Regular Testing: Consistent water testing ensures that chemical levels remain within safe parameters and helps in timely adjustments.

Spotlight on High-Quality Equipment: Ensuring Community Safety

Investing in reliable water treatment equipment is essential for maintaining the highest standards of public health and safety. Listed below are a few of the many forms of equipment Hawkins offers that can ensure your municipal pools and aquatic facilities meet these standards:

• Aquatic Pumps increase precision in chemical dosing, ensuring that disinfectants and other chemicals are delivered accurately to maintain balanced water chemistry. Aquatic pumps provide reliability and consistency to your system and are ideal for the demanding needs of public facilities.
• Pool Controllers offer advanced automation for the management of water quality in public pools. These controllers provide real-time monitoring and adjustment of chemical levels, ensuring compliance with health regulations and reducing the risk of waterborne illness outbreaks.
• Testing Kits are designed to provide precise measurements of key water parameters, helping to ensure that your facilities meet health and safety standards. Regular and accurate water testing is critical for the management of public pools. Testing kits are user-friendly and provide rapid results, allowing for prompt adjustments and interventions as needed.
• CCH Feeder Systems are an excellent choice for the automated and controlled delivery of chlorine in public pools. These systems help maintain consistent disinfectant levels, reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring the safety of pool users.

The Hawkins Advantage: Supporting Your Community’s Water Quality

At Hawkins Inc., we are dedicated to ensuring the health and safety of public aquatic facilities. We offer a wide range of water treatment products and equipment designed to meet the specific needs of municipal pools and aquatic centers. Our team of experts is here to provide support, guidance, and solutions to help you maintain high standards of water quality and compliance.

Invest in high-quality water treatment equipment and practices this summer to safeguard your community’s health and well-being. Contact Hawkins Inc. at (877) 795 8719 to learn more about how we can help maintain clean, safe, and inviting aquatic environments for your residents.