Even if water quality complies with the most stringent
regulations, water distribution systems can never
be free of particles or microorganisms. Particulate
materials accumulate as loose deposits in distribution
systems as a result of several mechanisms. A number of
adverse effects on water quality are associated with the
presence of loose deposits in networks, including coliforms
and consumer complaints.
The objective of this article was to evaluate the extent
of loose deposit accumulation in distribution systems in
three Canadian cities to determine optimal flushing frequency.
In this study, the quantity and nature of loose
deposits removed during unidirectional flushing (UDF)
procedures is documented and the role of treated water
characteristics and network configuration on the rate of
loose deposit accumulation is identified.
The collection of data and the analysis of the results
obtained by UDF was found to be useful to water utilities
because it enables utilities to characterize the
efficiency of UDF programs with relatively simple protocols,
evaluate the potential adverse effects of
resuspended loose deposits on water quality, and
read the current situation of the network. The combined
practice (flushings and analyzing the procedure
effectiveness) can be a useful tool in the decision-making
process of maintenance operations, especially during
the first years following the implementation of this
operations and maintenance procedure. Includes 31 references, tables, figures.
| Edition : | Vol. 97 - No. 9 |
| File Size : | 1
file
, 370 KB |
| Note : | This product is unavailable in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus |
| Number of Pages : | 11 |
| Published : | 09/01/2005 |
