Keeping Iron in Solution
Keeping Iron in Solution
(OP)
Hoping someone can help.
I need to find a quick fix to a problem (we're putting in a proper solution later)
I need some way of ensuring that Iron stays in solution for a period of time to allow it to be removed at a wtw rather than depositing in the pipework. Is this easily done?
I need to find a quick fix to a problem (we're putting in a proper solution later)
I need some way of ensuring that Iron stays in solution for a period of time to allow it to be removed at a wtw rather than depositing in the pipework. Is this easily done?





RE: Keeping Iron in Solution
RE: Keeping Iron in Solution
Iron is believed to be in the water source, not coming from the pipe. Levels are too high to retain it in solution to put into supply.
pH will need to be adjusted back to around neutral to allow further treatment to occur.
RE: Keeping Iron in Solution
RE: Keeping Iron in Solution
Iron sequestering is accomplished with a food grade polyphosphate. Polyphosphates "coat" and "tie up" the dissolved iron (Fe) ions by preventing a reaction with oxygen and subsequent precipitation. The sequestering agent prevents the staining effect but does not remove iron.
Sequestering only works when the iron is initially in the dissolved "clearwater" form. Sequestering chemicals may be reasonably effective for iron in concentration as high as 0.6 mg/l. As the iron concentration continues to increase, the level of expected success using a sequestering chemical decreases.
A chemical feed pump that starts and stops in tandem with a water well pump adds the sequestering agent. Maintenance is minimal.
Advantages of Sequestering
- Low cost equipment and chemicals.
Disadvantages of Sequestering
- The effectiveness of the treatment is reduced at higher water temperatures or when the water is aerated or when chlorine is added.
- Sequestering chemicals lose effectiveness with time. They revert from the "poly" to the "ortho" form of phosphate.
- Not effective for that portion of iron that has already oxidized and turned rusty.
You should also be aware that the use of polyphosphates may reduce the effectiveness of downstream iron removal processes. A local chemical supplier should be able to supply the polyphosphate.