Ion Exchange Equipment

Ion exchange equipment are devices that are used to set the ionic content of water. Ions usually are atoms, groups of atoms, or compounds that are electrically charged as a result of the loss of cations (+ve charge) or the gain of anions (-ve charge).

Types
There are two basic types of ion exchange equipment -

• Softeners: Softeners are ion exchange equipment that are used to replace iron, calcium, magnesium and other metallic ions with sodium ions. This device is used to treat hard water and prevents the accumulation of scale in industrial pipes and boilers.
  
  
• Deionizers: Deionizers are ion exchange equipment, which are used to replace mineral content with hydroxyl and oxygen groups.

Most of the ion exchange equipment include manual and automatic backwash systems. Automatic systems flush the exchange medium based on factors, such as time, chemical sensing, or volumetric operation. Since the ion exchange equipment often runs discontinuously, continuous flow rate is an essential specification to conceive when selecting an ion exchange equipment. Superior system designs allow for low-flow conditions as well as periods of peak flow periods.

Applications
Ion exchange equipment has found several uses and applications. Some of these equipment are used to recover nickel, copper, cobalt and other precious or heavy metals from solvent-based or water-based mixtures. Various other products are also available that are used to remove nitrates or process organic materials. For example, these equipment are used in sucrose processing facilities to soften feed streams and for removing sugar from molasses. These equipment are also used in factories to remove dissolved alkaline solids, which can impede machine performance.

Ion exchange demineralization is a two-stage process, which involves treatment with both anion and cation exchange resins. The result is the removal of electrolytes and a yield of pure water. Condensate polishing lowers the particulate matter and dissolves contaminants in condensates from utility power plants. Ion exchange devices, which capture the trace amounts of radioactive materials or nuclide's are also available. Water purification and softening systems are used to remove alkalis, acids, salts, or mixtures from anionic or slightly ionized substances.

Buying Tips – Ion Exchange Equipment

Selecting an ion exchange equipment requires an understanding of the requirements specific to a particular industry. Products, which are engineered for food processing, medical, or sanitary applications are generally regulated, certified, or approved by regulatory authorities. Typically, the ion exchange equipment are designed to meet high standards of purity for analytical testing. These equipment are also used in industrial applications wherein the ionic contamination can reduce the limit and quality performance. Some common examples include automotive painting, automotive finishing, and electronic component assembly.