Water production and maintenance of a water purification system should be simple processes. However, if proper maintenance practice has not been followed, they may become a problem. In particular, the aspect related to water production is important, because the water quality standards for the laboratory are strict. Water purification systems need to be able to meet the requirements of these standards, consistently and at the appropriate volume.

This will only be possible if the water purification systems are subject to a proper cleaning and maintenance routine, which allows them to operate at their maximum capacity.  Without this practice, it is impossible to prevent problems that can lead to periods of inactivity and considerable costs.

In general, a laboratory water purification system has several purification technologies, and each one is within the system in the form of a cartridge or filter, with the exception of ultra violet light. In order to maintain the effectiveness of a purification system, these cartridges or filters should be changed regularly. We must remember that these components prevent the passage of pollutants, which may eventually accumulate and promote the ineffectiveness of the cartridge or filter.

Frequency of replacement of the most common cartridges in water purification systems

• Pre-treatment: they should usually be changed every six to twelve months. This module allows the removal of chlorine and other particles, which facilitates maintenance and prolongs the life of the reverse osmosis membrane.
• Reverse osmosis: Routine maintenance of the reverse osmosis module includes its review and chemical disinfection every 6 to 12 months.
• Ion exchange: Usually, they are replaced at intervals of three to six months.  Because water quality is reduced as the cartridge capacity is exhausted, the replacement frequency may need to be increased in some laboratories where sensitive tests are done.
• Ultra filter: Filters located at the point of use should usually be changed every 6 to 12 months. If the change is not made to the recommended routine, the filter may become locked and ultimately no longer effective.

General steps for changing filter

Here are a few simple steps for replacing filters:

• First, it must be determined which cartridges will be replaced. For scheduled maintenance, they are already preset.  It is important to use the manufacturer’s instructions as a reference.

• Close the water supply valve.
• Open the dispenser to release the pressure.
• Removal of housings, O-rings, and other parts as needed.
• Remove the cartridge to be replaced. During the process, prevent any spills.
• Prepare the new cartridge for installation; perform basic sanitation procedures, so as not to introduce contamination into the filter while replacement or installation is in progress.
• After installation, pressure testing, flow checking, and other assessments should be performed to ensure that the purification system functions properly.

It is important to note that there may be additional steps, depending on the replacement being performed. If the purification system is old, replacement of pipes and other fittings may be required.

Kalstein Water Purification System

At Kalstein we have a wide variety of water purification systems available, from the YR series. You will find different models that adapt to the different needs of each laboratory or analysis. Kalstein equipment, offer resistivity monitoring with high precision, allow measurement of the ionic concentration and monitoring of the TOC value, to prevent organic contamination. In addition, they are easy to operate, with a friendly graphical interface. They also enable quick cartridge replacement and a convenient supply of pure and ultra pure water. For more information on Kalstein water purification systems, please visit the HERE

We are manufacturers, so in Kalstein you can make the purchase of water purification systems, at advantageous prices. For more detailed information, visit HERE