The OpenLine open channel ultraviolet wastewater disinfection system from Aquionics is engineered to treat secondary wastewater flows up to 2.5 million gpd. The system uses a low-pressure, high-output amalgam lamp that offers a stable output over its 14,000 hours of operating life. The flexible, modular design provides simple installation and maintenance. The unit is simply placed on a flat surface and the inlet and outlet piping is connected.

The unit is designed to plug into an existing treatment facility without customization, says Oliver Lawal, vice president of technology. “From an engineering and design standpoint, it just bolts onto the back of whatever they’ve got,” he says. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a reactor clarifier or sequencing batch reactor. All you need is a concrete slab.” The system measures 7 feet long and about 1 foot wide.

The self-contained unit negates the need to install lamp wires through conduits or chemical feed systems. Chemical free, the unit uses automatic, long-life Viton wipers, powered by a self-contained air compressor, to keep the quartz sleeves surrounding the UV lamps clean and ensure optimum UV output at all times.

Lamp replacement takes about five minutes, and this and other routine maintenance can usually be performed by on-site staff. Assuming the system runs year-round, the only maintenance is a lamp and wiper ring change every 18 months. The system’s ballasts have a variable output between 50 and 100 percent and are easily accessible. 859/341-0710; www.aquionics.com.