OverviewThe Chemical Dose Controller is a critical piece of the AguaClara technology which couples the plant flow rate with the flow rate of the coagulant or disinfectant stock solution. The result is a semi-automated system in which the plant operator only needs to set a dose for the chemical and it will be administered automatically as the plant flow rate varies. The system has evolved steadily with major advances every year. The ability to accurately and predictably control the alum and chlorine dosages without electricity sets AguaClara apart from other water treatment technologies.  Image Removed
Figure 1: General Schematic of Chemical Dose Controller
The Non-Linear CDC makes it possible for an operator to set the chemical dose without referring to any tables. This could be a significant advantage. The disadvantage is that this design is more complex and thus we will need to work this carefully to ensure that the CDC technology is sustainable. Current Research TeamChallenges - Our goals are 1)To become familiar with the current apparatus, design parameters and constraints. 2) To design a Nonlinear Chemical Dose Controller that can be scaled up or down depending on an input plant flow rate. Also, we would like to improve the design so that it will incorporate the different chemicals used in the plant in addition to alum such as chlorine.3)To create appropriate databases for the materials used (i.e.: float valves, frame, tubing). Additionally, we will be further investigating frame and component materials that are compatible with the chemicals and can be found locally.
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