Water softener
GENO-mat duo WE-X,
GENO-mat duo WE-OSMO-X
Order no. 074 184 046-inter Edited by: phar/mrie G:\BA-184046-inter_074_GENO-mat duo_WE-X.docx
11
3 | Ion exchange
Fig. B-1: Initial position
The exchange of calcium and magnesium ions for sodium ions
causes the water to become soft.
Principle
The hard raw water flows through an exchanger. This tank is filled
with a resin, to which sodium ions are bonded (see Fig. B-1).
Since the bonding positions at the resin prefer calcium and
magnesium ions to sodium ions, these ions are retained while
the resin discharges sodium ions into the water (exchange
reaction). In this way, all substances causing hardness remain
in the exchanger. Soft water loaded with sodium ions leaves the
exchanger (Fig. B-2). This process continues until the sodium
ions are used up.
Fig. B-2: Operation
The exchange reaction can be reversed if a large amount of
sodium ions (salt solution = brine) is added (Fig. B-3).
By their sheer number, the sodium ions displace the calcium
and magnesium ions at the docking positions of the resin.
This process restores the initial state. The resin is regenerated
and is again ready for softening.
Drinking water (raw water)
As protection against corrosion, we recommend a soft water
hardness of at least 3 °dH (5.3 °f, 0.53 mmol/l). According to the
German Drinking Water Ordinance, the limit value for sodium
ions (200 mg/l) must not be exceeded. This hardness is achieved
by adding untreated drinking water (raw water), a process which
is commonly called blending.
Fig. B-3: Regeneration
Note: Many popular mineral waters contain significantly
more sodium ions. Check for yourself by reading the
analysis results on the labels.
Warning
!
Risk of infection due to germs in the drinking
water. Germs can reproduce in stagnant water to the
point where they pose a threat. Work with water
softeners requires special hygienic measures. Ensure
that there is sufficient flow. Disinfect the systems if
required.
Single/Twin/Triple water softeners
In case of single water softeners, no soft water is available
during the regeneration phase.
Twin water softeners have two exchangers that alternate
operation. As a result, soft water is available at all times.
Triple water softeners consist of three exchangers. Two
exchangers are flown through in parallel while the third is being
regenerated.
Sodium ions
Calcium ions
Magnesium ions
Resin
Hard water
Soft water
Resin
Resin
Waste water
Brine solution
Summary of Contents for GENO-mat duo WE-OSMO-X 130
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