Minimizing the Expense of a City Through Knowledge

All water is a little different and it can vary from city to city. Some water is more corrosive than others based on its chemical make-up. By utilizing the water test results from the lab and what are called ‘coupon studies’ we can help minimize the expense of the city by maintaining the correct levels of water treatment chemicals.

Water Chemistry

Water can be positively or negatively charged depending on its contents. Water becomes more positive during the water treatment process when calcium, iron, and manganese are removed, which leaves the water full of positively-charged ions. These positive ions in the water are attracted to metals such as lead, copper, and steel. This attempt for the water to equalize itself is what causes corrosion and adds metal particles into the water.

Coupon Studies

Coupon studies are done to test this corrosion in the water system. ‘Coupons’ of lead, copper, and steel are placed into a ‘coupon rack’ installed in their system where water is constantly running. During a routine service call, each coupon is tested for ‘mils per year loss’. This produces another set of water test results of how fast the water is eating away at the lead, copper, and steel. The results are then used to modify the water treatment chemicals or injection rate if necessary.

Knowledge is Savings

Our reports show the maximum amount of each metal the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allows in the water and where the client’s levels are in comparison. The EPA uses these tests not to ensure the longevity of the lead, copper, and steel pipes, but the amount able to be ingested by people drinking and using the water. There are regulations specifying the amount of lead, copper, and steel people are allowed to consume and we help keep you in compliance and from spending more than you need to.