Compliance with drinking water disinfection standards is the priority for managers of UV equipment in drinking water treatment plants, but the latest technologies can deliver much more, writes Enno Müller, product manager for UV at Xylem.
While the primary focus for UK water companies is regulatory compliance, to ensure drinking water quality standards are met and public safety secured, today’s technologies must tick many more boxes. Tight budgetary parameters, a continuing global energy crisis and net zero targets mean increased efficiency is also a key driver for companies selecting technologies for their 2025-30 asset management plans (AMP8).
One way in which efficiencies can be gained is through disinfection technology selection. Ultraviolet (UV) treatment consumes less energy than other methods and as such is one of the most efficient forms of disinfection.
The technology uses UV light to irreparably damage the DNA of harmful microorganisms, effectively inactivating them. It is highly effective as part of a multi-barrier disinfection system even against chlorine-resistant pathogens like cryptosporidium and giardia, both common causes of waterborne disease outbreaks.
However, not all UV disinfection systems are made equal. There is wide variation in terms of capabilities and benefits, all of which can impact significantly on the performance of a disinfection system, installation and maintenance time required, and costs.
So, as well as compliance, what should utilities be demanding from UV disinfection technology? When it comes to installing technology, size matters. For existing sites that intend to convert or add UV disinfection to their treatment process, the right system not only saves on physical footprint where space is tight but also makes installation simpler and quicker.
Flexibility in installation is another benefit of UV systems, with options in flange orientation and a choice between horizontal and vertical mounting. The access point for routine maintenance can also be adjusted to suit onsite conditions and configuration, ensuring seamless integration of the UV system into existing pipework.
With energy efficiency key to cost efficiency, it is important to ensure that the selected UV system can adjust power automatically to reflect real-time monitored operating conditions. This will realise significant energy savings compared to traditional technology, save significant costs, and support a site’s sustainability programme and net zero goals.
Xylem continues to invest in extensive research, development and testing of UV disinfection technology and, as a result, has added new additions to its Wedeco Spektron UV series.
Every day, over 50 million people globally rely on the series for safe drinking water. Now, as well as proven certification and validation in accordance with the latest global standards – including German DIN19294-1 and US EPA’s UV Disinfection Guidance Manual (UVDGM) – the range delivers up to 50% reduction in energy consumption compared to previous models.
This saving is achieved through an optimised reactor design and the use of energy efficient Ecoray UV lamps, which have a variable power function and reduced mercury content, further minimising carbon footprint.
Size is another significant saving. Units are up to 50% smaller than competitor models, saving space and reducing installation time and budget.
Another area set to make a real difference to is faster maintenance. The Spektron UV systems have been designed with OptiMount, which enables lamp installation and exchange from both sides of the reactor. Coupled with this, remote connectivity enables real-time monitoring and control capabilities.
These are some of ways the systems help reduce downtime, lower maintenance costs, and contribute to improved accessibility for engineers, as well as safer lifting and handling.
Looking beyond compliance and health and safety, it is imperative that disinfection systems deliver a range of benefits that make a difference to a plant’s day-to-day operation, lifetime costs and sustainability performance. Today, this and more is possible thanks to continued innovation.
