412 Pinks & Blues: The Iron-clad Saga

"Be the iron fist that keeps your water flowing clean and clear." - Trace Blackmore

Welcome back to another insightful Pinks & Blues episode of Scaling UP! H2O! In this episode, host Trace Blackmore dives into the fascinating world of iron in water treatment systems. While iron is essential for life, it can be a major problem in industrial water systems, leading to corrosion, equipment damage, and inefficiencies. This episode unpacks the science behind iron, testing methods, and practical strategies for managing its impact. 

Understanding the Iron Triangle 

To effectively manage iron in water systems, it’s important to understand its different forms. Trace explains the Iron Triangle, breaking down the differences between elemental iron (Fe), ferrous iron (Fe2+), and ferric iron (Fe3+). He discusses how iron moves through water systems and why recognizing these distinctions is critical for water treatment professionals. 

How to Test for Iron Accurately 

Proper testing is key to managing iron levels. Trace details the phenanthroline method, a common technique used to measure iron concentrations in water. He provides best practices for accurate testing, discusses common interferences like molybdates and nitrites, and explains how to adjust testing methods to ensure reliable results.

Corrosion and Iron’s Impact on System Longevity 

Iron is a major contributor to corrosion in water systems, and Trace explains why steel corrodes so easily. He covers the role of corrosion inhibitors and the importance of filtration systems in preventing excessive iron buildup. By managing iron effectively, professionals can protect equipment, reduce maintenance costs, and improve system efficiency. 

Math in Action: Calculating Total Iron in a System 

For those who love applying real-world math, Trace walks through the process of calculating total iron in pounds within a system. He explains how this calc