The Light at the End of the Tunnel- How to Successfully Operate a UV Disinfection System

Over the past ten years, ultraviolet (UV) technology has become a commonly applied method of disinfecting of wastewater effluent. UV disinfection involves passing wastewater effluent through a confined chamber with rows of underwater lamps emitting UV energy. Viruses and bacteria become inactivated upon exposure to dosages of UV energy, thereby disinfecting the wastewater.The UV system is defined by the physical (electrical and mechanical) requirements of the equipment. These requirements must be matched with the water quality of the wastewater plant to provide effective disinfection. For the purpose of trouble-shooting UV equipment, the UV system can be divided into three components: process, electrical, and mechanical. The process system deals with the quality of the water to be treated by the UV system and the disinfection goals that must to be attained. The electrical system consists of the lamps, wiring, and control system. Mechanical system includes the quartz sleeves, frames, cleaning mechanism, and reactor configuration.When the UV system functions as intended, it is easy for operations staff to maintain compliance with the treatment facilities NPDES permit requirements. This paper discusses the key operating requirements and presents helpful hits on how to improve the operations and maintenance and trouble shoot UV systems.