What is groundwater?

Groundwater is a natural water resource located beneath the earth's surface, in pores and rock fractures. They are very important for water management, as they meet the needs not only of the population, but also of agriculture and industry. In addition, they are a key component of ecosystems, affecting the functioning of rivers, lakes and wetlands.

Why is groundwater treatment important? These waters are susceptible to contamination by chemicals such as pesticides, fertilizers, heavy metals and industrial wastewater. In addition, compounds such as iron and manganese can impart undesirable taste, odor and color to water, and organic matter can provide a breeding ground for microorganisms. Biological contaminants, such as bacteria and viruses, can make water hazardous to health. Lack of water treatment can lead to poisoning, infectious diseases and long-term health effects. Regular monitoring and treatment of subterranean water is key to ensuring safe and clean water for communities.

From Groundwater to Drinking Water – Stages of Treatment

Treating groundwater to produce potable water is a multi-stage process that ensures clean and safe water for consumption.

1. Groundwater Extraction:

   Water is extracted from wells, during which parameters such as pH, turbidity, and water levels are monitored.

2. Coagulation and Flocculation:

   Adding coagulants causes small particles of contaminants to clump together into larger aggregates (flocs), which are easier to remove. Parameters such as flow rate, levels, and indicators are continuously regulated to ensure optimal efficiency of this process.

3. Sedimentation:

   In this process, larger floc particles settle to the bottom of the tank, allowing for their separation from the clearer water.

4. Filtration:

   Water flows through a filtration system that removes smaller impurities. Parameters such as pH, conductivity, and pressure are monitored.

5. Disinfection:

   Chlorination or ozonation is used to eliminate pathogens, ensuring the microbiological safety of the water. It is important to monitor and regulate the amount of disinfectant added to guarantee the effectiveness of the process.

6. Storage:

   Treated water is stored in storage tanks, where its level and quality indicators are monitored before being supplied to the water distribution network.

Each stage is crucial for effective treatment, ensuring that the water meets strict standards for human consumption quality.

How to measure groundwater conductivity?

Measuring groundwater conductivity is a key step in the treatment process, especially during sedimentation. Conductivity is measured to assess the amount of dissolved ions, which indicates the presence of chemical impurities.

Various measurement sensors are used for this purpose. An example is the JUMO tecLine CR two-electrode conductivity sensor. Another type is the four-electrode conductivity probes of the JUMO tecLine CR-4P series, designed to monitor electrolytic conductivity in aqueous solutions.

How to Measure Pressure in the Filtration Process?

Filtration is a process where a mixture of solids and liquids in water or wastewater is separated using filters. Effective filtration requires monitoring the pressure before and after the filter to ensure optimal operation and system efficiency.

Pressure Measurement Processes:

Filtration: Controlling the pressure before and after the filter is crucial as it allows for detecting pressure drops, which may indicate filter clogging or other operational issues.

Proposed Solutions:

Universal Pressure Transmitter JUMO MIDAS S05: A transmitter for measuring relative and absolute pressure, equipped with a stainless steel diaphragm, suitable for various media, including aggressive ones.

PID Controller and Standard Signal Indicator JUMO AQUIS 500 AS: A device for processing signals from sensors with standard outputs of 4-20 mA, 0-10 V, enabling automatic temperature compensation.

These transmitters and controllers allow precise pressure measurement, essential for effective filtration process management and maintaining high water quality.

Determination of chlorine concentration in water disinfection process

The disinfection process aims to eliminate or neutralize microorganisms present in water. Chlorine is the most commonly used disinfectant in the treatment of consumer water. According to the principle of "as much as necessary and as little as possible," the concentration and dosage of chlorine must be constantly monitored. Free chlorine sensors, such as the JUMO tecLine Cl2, are used for this purpose. These are membrane-based, amperometric probes designed to determine the concentration of free chlorine in aqueous solutions, equipped with integrated temperature compensation.

How to measure the turbidity of drinking water with a turbidity probe?

During flocculation and coagulation processes, accurate turbidity monitoring allows for optimal dosing of chemicals, resulting in more effective water treatment. Turbidity refers to the degree to which water loses its clarity due to the presence of suspended particles. Monitoring turbidity is important because high turbidity can indicate the presence of organic and inorganic contaminants that can be harmful to health.

One recommended solution for this application is the JUMO ecoLine NTU optical digital turbidity probe. This probe is designed to measure the turbidity of drinking, process and utility water. Thanks to its advanced optical technology, the JUMO ecoLine NTU provides precise and reliable results, which is crucial for effective management of water filtration processes.

Which flow meter to use for drinking water treatment processes?

Accurate flow monitoring allows you to control the amount of coagulants and flocculants added, which is essential for effective contaminant removal.

Electromagnetic flowmeters are ideal for these applications. The JUMO flowTRANS MAG I01 submersible magnetic-inductive (MID) flowmeter is an excellent choice for its reliability and precision. Thanks to its submersible design, it provides accurate flow measurements under various operating conditions.

Another recommended device is the JUMO flowTRANS MAG I02 submersible magnetic-inductive flowmeter with display. It provides not only accuracy, but also the convenience of flow monitoring thanks to its built-in display.

Hydrostatic Probes for Measuring Groundwater Levels

Monitoring groundwater levels is crucial in water treatment processes such as coagulation and flocculation, as well as in managing storage tanks.

Level Measurement Processes:

Coagulation and Flocculation: Precise water level control is essential for effective management of these processes.

Water Tanks: Regular monitoring of storage tank levels prevents overflow and ensures the continuous supply of treated water.

Groundwater Wells: Accurate monitoring of well levels allows for efficient management of groundwater resources.

Proposed Solutions:

Hydrostatic Liquid/Depth Level Probe JUMO MAERA S28: Ideal for ventilated and open tanks, perfect for drinking water, wells, and reservoirs.

Hydrostatic Wastewater Level Probe JUMO MAERA F27: Resistant to aggressive media, suitable for continuous level measurement in coagulation and flocculation processes.

How to Measure the pH of Groundwater?

Monitoring the pH of groundwater is crucial in various water purification processes, including sedimentation and the management of groundwater wells.

pH Control Processes:

Sedimentation: Precise pH control is essential as the appropriate pH enhances the effectiveness of the sedimentation process, aiding in the efficient removal of contaminants.

Groundwater Wells: Monitoring the pH of well water allows for the assessment of its quality and the identification of potential issues, such as chemical contaminants, which may affect health.

Proposed Solutions:

JUMO tecLine pH Industrial and Process Electrodes: The combined electrodes from the JUMO tecLine pH series are high-quality sensors, ideal for accurately determining pH in process and industrial applications.

About the author

My name is Ewelina Szmit and I have been working in content marketing for several years, combining my professional skills with my passion for writing. I am convinced that even the most technical topics can be presented in an interesting and accessible way for everyone. Outside of work, I unleash my creativity by creating newspaper collages. I like to spend my free time being active, walking my dog or running.

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