What Does
Chloramination Mean?
Chloramination refers to the process of water disinfection with the aid of ammonia, chlorine compounds and chloramines. Utilization of chloramines started in the early part of the 1900s, particularly in the United States. Since then, this has become a highly popular method of water treatment.
Chloramines are considered efficient as they work on a long-term basis. Chloramination is widely applicable in large distribution systems.
Corrosionpedia Explains Chloramination
Gaining a better understanding of the different areas of chloramination allows water system professionals and industries to manage and run an effective chloraminated water system. In most parts of the world, especially in the US, residual maintenance, or the amount of disinfectant that remains within the water distribution system while the water is being transported to homes is a mandatory procedure set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Chloramines are permitted in public drinking water, as this type of water does not pass directly to the blood stream. However, the EPA sets a maximum and minimum level of chloramines that should be used in disinfecting drinking water in order to promote public safety.
Industries should be very careful in using chloramines since the ideal ratio of ammonia and chlorine should be identified and managed carefully in order to prevent damage to human health as well as water pipes. For instance, the public must be warned once chloramination begins to prevent sensitive reactions. Pipes made of cast iron must also be lined to prevent corrosion, exhibited by reddish discoloration. In some cases, system flushing may be required.