AWWA WQTC71602

This paper presents a corrosion inhibitor pre-qualification study for the Pinellas County WaterSystem (PCWS). The sheer size and complexity of the County's system, combined with the use of chloramine disinfection, multiple distribution system points of entry, and a variable blend of ground, surface and desalinated sources, makes for a challenging system to monitor and maintain. One of the County's long-standing successes has been its optimized corrosion control program. The success is highlighted by numerous corrosion investigations to resolve corrosion problems that first became apparent through reports of leaking copper pipes in homes and apartment complexes in the early 1970s. Since that time, the County determined that a combination of pH control and proprietary orthopolyphosphate corrosion inhibitor addition is the best available practice for controlling lead and copper release. This methodology has remained effective for their regional blended ground, surface and desalted water supply that is disinfected with chloramine. In light of escalating water treatment chemical costs, the County embarked on a program to prequalify alternate products for competitive bidding. This followed prior formal tests of alternative products to the original product in 1994 and 2003. The subsequent testing and competitive bids lead to contract extensions with the original vendor when products with comparable performance were not found or when the price of competitive products was higher. Includes 3 references, tables, figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. - No.

Published:

11/01/2009

Number of Pages:

21

File Size:

1 file , 830 KB