Inline UV decontamination, an optional feature for some cooling units, utilised ultraviolet radiation to disinfect process cooling water, effectively eliminating harmful microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. During this process, the cooling water passes through a chamber housing a UV lamp, which emits light that penetrates the water, deactivating present microorganisms. The effectiveness of UV decontamination is influenced by factors like the UV light intensity, exposure duration, and water flow rate through the chamber. This eco-friendly method avoids the use of chemicals, eliminating environmental and health hazards and producing no harmful by-products., making it a sustainable solution for process cooling water decontamination.

The benefits of inline UV decontamination include efficient and effective microbial reduction, up to 99.9%, without chemical use, ensuring safety and environmental friendliness. This method is cost-effective with low operational costs and minimal maintenance compared to other disinfection methods. It’s easy to install and doesn’t impact water quality, retaining the water’s pH and characteristics, making it suitable for industries where water quality is crucial. Inline UV systems can also be easily monitored for effectiveness, ensuring the process is consistently effective.

However, inline UV decontamination has limitations and drawbacks. While effective against most microorganisms, it may not eliminate all pathogens and doesn’t remove other contaminants like minerals or organic compounds. Its effectiveness depends on water quality; cloudy or high-dissolved-solid water can reduce UV penetration. The UV lamp requires regular maintenance for optimal performance, and the system’s reliance on electricity can increase energy consumption and operational costs. Additionally, the initial capital costs can be high, depending on the installation’s size and complexity. Despite these considerations, inline UV decontamination remains a valuable tool in various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and power generation, where water purity is paramount.