The Hidden Link Between Water Quality and Energy Efficiency

Self-cleaning strainers offer an efficient and continuous way to remove debris and contaminants from fluid systems without the need for manual intervention. In this blog, we’ll discuss what self-cleaning filters are, how they work, and their various benefits in industrial filtration. What Are Self-Cleaning Filters?  Automatic self-cleaning strainers keep industrial process systems free of contaminants and debris as with traditional strainers and filters. What makes self-cleaning strainers unique is how they clean themselves without shutdowns and manual intervention. In most self-cleaning strainer designs, liquid enters the strainer from the bottom, flows upward through a filtering system, and exits as clean fluid. Any debris caught by the filter is pushed to a collection area. When the system detects a buildup of pressure, it opens a flush valve to remove the collected debris. The most common mechanisms you will see in a self-cleaning strainer include: Backwashing . The flow of the liquid is reversed to send a portion back through the filter. This dislodges trapped debris so that it can be directed to the collection area. Mechanical Scraping . Uses blades to physically scrape t he filter surface. Continuous Flushing . A bypass stream continuously dislodges and carries away contaminants while the main fluid passes through the strainer s . Ultrasonic Cleaning . Uses high-frequency vibrations to break apart and dislodge stubborn debris so that it can continue to the collection area. The longer a filter can go without shutdowns for cleaning and repairs, the greater the savings lost production. Benefits of Automatic Self-Cleaning Strainers The advantages of using a self-cleaning strainer are not limited to productivity and reduced downtime. Other benefits include: Consistent performance in flow rate and purity Prevents damage and repairs due to clogs in the filter Protects downstream equipment from damage due to clogs and impurities Is a Self-Cleaning Strainer Right for my Filtration Needs? Every work sight and process is unique, so what works perfectly at one site may not work well at another. This holds true with self-cleaning strainers as well. Before you invest in a self-cleaning strainer, you should discuss your needs with one of SCI’s knowledgeable employees. They will help you navigate factors to consider. This includes factors such as maximum flow rate, pressure, strainer mesh sizing and material compatibility to ensure the strainer will not corrode on contact with the fluid. Let Sparking Clear Help You Find the Best Filtration System For Your process. Contact us today to set up a consultation. We’ve Got You Covered

At Sparkling Clear, we understand the importance of using membrane cartridges for filtration. The pore structure of our membrane cartridges ensures extremely high retention efficiency and consistent effluent quality. This capability to capture and retain very small particulates and organisms instills a high degree of confidence that your product will be clean and safe for use. The consistent pore structure of our membranes also allows for straightforward testing, helping both manufacturers and users to understand and communicate the expected performance of the cartridge in various applications. This is why membrane filters are typically employed in scenarios where the removal of submicronic contaminants is crucial. It is important to note that membrane filters are generally used in the final stages of a filtration process. To ensure the longevity and efficiency of the membrane cartridge, it is essential to protect it with prefilters. This protection prevents premature fouling and maximizes the economic value of the system. Applications that Usually Require Membranes: Submicronic particulate removal Removal of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, etc.) Applications requiring sterility (liquid or gas) Endotoxin removal Haze removal (typically caused by high concentrations of particles at or below 0.45 microns) Choose Sparkling Clear for your membrane filtration needs to ensure the highest quality and safety of your products.

Choosing a Y-strainer for industrial filtration offers several benefits that make it a preferred option in many applications. Here are key reasons to consider a Y-strainer: 1. Efficient Particle Removal Versatility: Y-strainers are effective in removing solid particles from liquids, gases, and steam. They can handle various sizes of particles, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Preventing Clogging: By trapping debris and particulates, Y-strainers protect downstream equipment from damage and clogging, ensuring smoother operations and reducing maintenance needs. 2. Cost-Effectiveness Low Initial Cost: Y-strainers are generally less expensive than other types of strainers, such as basket strainers or self-cleaning filters. Reduced Maintenance: They are simple to clean and maintain. The strainer element can be easily removed and cleaned, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs. 3. Durability and Longevity Robust Construction: Typically made from materials like stainless steel, carbon steel, or cast iron, Y-strainers are designed to withstand harsh industrial environments. Long Service Life: Their durable construction ensures a long operational life, even under high-pressure conditions or in corrosive environments. 4. Flexibility and Convenience Compact Design: Y-strainers have a compact and space-saving design, making them easy to install even in tight spaces. Versatile Installation: They can be installed in both horizontal and vertical pipelines, providing flexibility in system design and layout. 5. Operational Efficiency Minimal Pressure Drop: Y-strainers typically cause a lower pressure drop compared to other types of strainers, which is critical for maintaining efficient system operations. High Flow Rates: They allow for high flow rates with minimal impact on performance, ensuring that the system operates efficiently. 6. Customization Options Various Mesh Sizes: Y-strainers come with different mesh sizes, allowing for customization based on the specific filtration needs of the application. Different End Connections: They are available with various end connections, such as threaded, flanged, or welded, to fit different piping requirements. 7. Safety and Protection Protecting Equipment: By preventing debris from entering critical components like pumps, valves, and heat exchangers, Y-strainers enhance the overall safety and reliability of industrial systems. Ensuring Product Quality: In processes where product purity is essential, Y-strainers help in maintaining high-quality standards by filtering out contaminants. Applications of Y-Strainers Water Treatment: Removing debris from water before it enters pumps or other equipment. Chemical Processing: Protecting equipment from solid contaminants in chemical flows. HVAC Systems: Filtering out particulate matter from fluids in heating and cooling systems. Oil and Gas: Removing sand, grit, and other particles from oil and gas pipelines. Food and Beverage: Ensuring the purity of liquid ingredients by removing solids. By offering efficient filtration, ease of maintenance, cost-effectiveness, and versatility, Y-strainers are an excellent choice for many industrial applications where reliable and efficient filtration is essential. Choosing a Y-strainer for your industrial filtration needs enhances system efficiency, longevity, and reliability. For top-quality filtration solutions tailored to your requirements, contact Sparkling Clear Industries today.

Between rapidly changing federal regulations and the EPA’s proposed crackdown on PFAS levels in industrial processes, fluid treatment and purification will become increasingly important. In fact, a recent study by Precedence Research indicates that demand for water purification alone will sharply increase through 2032. If you are trying to improve your commercial or industrial systems to stay in compliance, the sheer number of filters and softeners could feel overwhelming. Which is right for each area of your business? In this blog, we’ll introduce the two broad categories of filtration types to help you narrow down your search. Filtration and Softeners Fulfill Different Core Objectives While both are centered around water purification, filtration and water softening have different core objectives. Softeners reduce hard minerals in pipe systems and improve drinkable water quality, primarily calcium, lime, and magnesium. They are primarily used to extend the life of the system by reducing contaminant buildup. Filters remove a wide variety of contaminants based on their type and filter materials. More advanced filtration systems even remove chemical compounds, bacteria, and PFAS (forever chemicals). They can be designed to fulfill a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to: Removing microbes from consumable fluid supplies Removing waste products for disposal Bringing fluids to industry standards for purity and quality Reducing environmental hazards before water is released into the surrounding area Removing Gulf silt and sediment from water supplies after a hurricane Preventing bacteria, viruses, and other organic microbes from reaching employees and consumers In short, water softeners protect pipes and machinery from damage caused by buildup. Filters focus on a range of quality, safety, and regulatory goals. Factors to Consider When Choosing Between a Water Softener and a Filter for Your Commercial or Industrial System Filters and softeners are critical investments to keep fluid quality up to standards. You will likely end up using both throughout your site based on your goals for each system or even segments of that system. Cost . Softeners focus on removing hard minerals, so they are often a more cost-effective option where you only need to improve drinking water quality or protect systems from hard water buildup. Area Compliance and Regulations . If you are required to keep certain standards in waste disposal, fluid quality, contaminant levels, and other factors, a softener will not be enough to stay in compliance or to protect the end products from contaminants. Goals Within The System . A water softener may be adequate for sections of the system that are strictly for transporting fluids. If the fluid has to meet certain quality, environmental, health, or safety standards, a filter can help you achieve those goals. You will also need to take your planning a step further to determine the best water filtration system to meet these goals. What is the Most Efficient Way to Choose Between a Softener and a Filtration System? We personally recommend getting an expert involved. Filtration manufacturers and providers deal with each part, regulation, and local guideline on a daily basis. What might take you time, research, and costly trial and error, an expert specializing in commercial and industrial purification systems can help you quickly find an effective solution. Decide what you need the purification system to remove so that you have a clear goal. This may require reviewing upcoming regulatory changes and analyzing the cost of necessary updates. Research your options . Even if you narrow down between the two off the bat, you will still need to research viable types of softeners or filtration systems. Consider things like space needed, energy costs, and repairs and maintenance costs. This will help you ask the right questions, follow the expert’s explanations, and make an informed decision. Find a reputable provider to discuss your options . Make sure they have a long reputation for quality service and products. Be prepared to discuss the areas you are considering a softener or filter for, along with what each section of the system needs to achieve. Sparkling Clear Has Been Providing Quality Filtration Solutions Since 1985 We pride ourselves in understanding our customers' needs and providing cost-effective solutions today while adopting the newest technologies and industry standards to meet the needs of tomorrow. Contact us today to take the guesswork out of choosing the right filtration solution.

On February 8, 2024, the EPA proposed adding a group of chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “Forever Chemicals,” to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Section 3001 hazardous waste list. This proposal carries significant implications for businesses and industrial processes. Let's delve into the details of this proposal and how its acceptance will affect businesses moving forward. What is in the EPA's Feb 2024 Proposal? The EPA's proposal aims to list nine PFAS compounds as hazardous waste under the RCRA. Here is the exact list: Perfluorooctanoic acid Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid Perfluorobutanesulfonic acid Hexafluoropropylene oxide-dimer acid Perfluorononanoic acid Perfluorohexanesulfonic acid Perfluorodecanoic acid Perfluorohexanoic acid Perfluorobutanoic acid PFAS are widely used in various industrial and consumer products due to their water and grease-resistant properties. However, their persistence in the environment and potential adverse effects on human health have raised concerns. Adding these nine Forever Chemicals to the list is the first step to stricter regulations regarding their use, storage, and disposal. Implications for Businesses And Industrial Processes Many states already strictly regulate or ban various forever chemicals in various industries. In Texas , we mainly see their use in oil and gas extraction, particularly in fracking. It is also still used in a wide range of consumer products, including waterproof gear and fast food products. This bill could create a massive impact across the board. Here are just a few of the major factors businesses and industries may face. Compliance Costs. This includes implementing new measures to prevent environmental contamination and how you treat PFAS-contaminated waste. It could also eventually lead to a strict ban on the chemicals, forcing industries to utilize alternatives. Cost of Rapid and Frequent Changes. As studies continue and our knowledge of forever chemicals evolve, the hazardous waste listing will enable the EPA and other regulatory agencies to enforce changes accordingly. Those who continue to use PFAS substances could face the extra expenses of staying up to date with rapidly evolving safety measures. Legal Obligations. Failure to comply could result in legal consequences, including fines and penalties. This could include legal consequences for any health and environmental damages from lingering waste products linked to the company. Waste Management Practices. Industries generating PFAS-containing waste will need to reassess their waste management practices to ensure compliance with stricter hazardous waste regulations. This may involve investing in specialized treatment technologies or outsourcing waste disposal to authorized facilities. Supply Chain Impacts. Manufacturers may need to seek alternative substances or processes to replace PFAS, leading to potential product development and sourcing challenges. Companies that have not prepared for this ahead of time will be hit hardest as they contend with a spike in demand and a low supply of alternative solutions in the early days of implementation. Get Ahead of the Game With Sparkling Clear We’re tracking how the regulation of PFAS substances affects Texas industries. Keep ahead of the curve by talking to one of our experts on how we can help reduce and eliminate forever chemicals in your water supplies and waste materials. Reference: Proposal to List Nine Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Compounds as Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Hazardous Constituents | US EPA Study says companies using “forever chemicals” in Texas oil and gas wells | The Texas Tribune

PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) contamination has become a topic of increasing concern. It’s not just an environmental issue, it can have severe legal and financial consequences for businesses. Today, we'll touch on the legal and financial implications for businesses. Legal Liability Lawsuits related to PFAS contamination are on the rise, with communities and individuals seeking accountability for damages to their health, home values, and other damages. In extreme cases, companies have faced bankruptcy or financial instability due to PFAS-related liabilities. For example, the former household staple brand 3M faces lawsuits worth billions of dollars and could face over $30 billion in litigations in a worst-case scenario. Regulatory Compliance Federal and state-level regulations have been established to address PFAS discharge into water sources, and these PFAS regulations are frequently evolving, including ones regarding: Reporting to EPA Safe Levels Disposal Methods Non-compliance can result in significant fines and penalties. Businesses must stay informed about these regulations and take steps to ensure compliance to avoid legal consequences. Cleanup Costs Businesses have been faced with the daunting task of dealing with the financial implications of PFAS cleanup, which can impact their bottom line significantly. The financial burden of clean-up and remediation efforts can be substantial. Loss of Reputation Trust is a precious commodity, and when a company's brand image is tarnished by contamination incidents, it can take years to rebuild customer confidence. This leads to significant financial losses due to factors like: Active boycotts Loss of clients and consumer bases Loss of critical word-of-mouth recommendations Cost of PR and reputation repairs Insurance Issues Insurers have taken a huge hit in recent years due to PFAS litigations. As a result, obtaining insurance coverage for PFAS-related claims is becoming increasingly challenging for businesses. Many businesses face a sizable overhead from the insurance costs or risk substantial financial losses with Inadequate insurance coverage. Sparkling Clear Experts Can Help Your Business Reduce PFAS-Related Costs These are just a few of the legal and financial consequences of PFAS contamination. Businesses must take proactive measures to mitigate these risks, like implementing effective filtration systems and complying with regulations. Contact us today for a consultation on the most effective PFAS-busting water filters for your site. References: Companies Face Billions in Damages as PFAS Lawsuits Flood Courts (bloomberglaw.com) Key EPA Actions to Address PFAS | US EPA Insurers Face Large PFAS-Related Losses: A Primer on Forever Chemical Regulation, Liabilities, and Insurance Coverage Issues (hinshawlaw.com)

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are two per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs or “forever chemicals”) that have been widely studied and are known for their persistence in the environment. Here is a breakdown of what they are and why it is important to keep them out of your water. PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate) PFOS was historically used in a variety of industrial and consumer products, including firefighting foams, textile surfaces, paper products, and as a component in some industrial processes. Studies have suggested potential health risks associated with PFOS exposure, including: Development of cancer in employees or consumers[1]. Child development issues that could lead to legal complications for your business [2]. Risk of cardiovascular disease for employees and consumers [3]. Due to concerns about its environmental and health effects, PFOS has been largely phased out of production and use in the United States, though imported goods may still contain them in certain products. PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid) PFOA was used in various applications, including the production of non-stick cookware (e.g., Teflon), waterproof and stain-resistant coatings for fabrics, and in manufacturing various consumer products. PFOA exposure has been associated with similar risks to PFOS, including cancer, heart disease, and child development issues [1][2][3]. It is also no longer used in the United States, but people can still be exposed through sources like: Imported goods from unregulated countries Fish and meats that were exposed prior to processing Contaminated soil and water supplies How Do I Keep These “Forever Chemicals” Out of My Business’s Water? The EPA updated its regulations and advisories in June 2022 to include factors like lifetime exposure and ongoing research into their environmental and health effects [4]. They are currently advising areas and industries to start taking measures to bring PFOA and PFOS chemicals, among many other chemicals, to lower levels for health and safety. Their 2023 proposal to regulate forever chemicals in drinking water will ask for more rigid restrictions on chemical levels than the current Washington state action levels (SALs) [5]. Protecting your drinking and consumer product water supplies is increasingly essential for health and regulatory standards. One of your first lines of defense is your water filters and systems. A few options include reverse osmosis, activated carbon, and anion exchange. You will need to have your water tested to find the most effective measures for your site. Sparkling Clear is Dedicated to Doing Right by You As the science behind forever chemicals continue to evolve, we’ll keep on top of it to ensure you have the most accurate and effective solutions available to your industry. Contact us today to learn more.  References: [1] Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS), and Related Chemicals | American Cancer Society [2] Stübner, C., Nielsen, C., Jakobsson, K., Gillberg, C., & Miniscalco, C. (2023). Early-life exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and child language and communication development: A systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(24), 7170. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20247170 [3] Ding, N., Karvonen-Gutierrez, C. A., Mukherjee, B., Calafat, A. M., Harlow, S. D., & Park, S. K. (2022). Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and incident hypertension in multi-racial/ethnic women: The study of women’s Health Across the Nation. Hypertension, 79(8), 1876–1886. https://doi.org/10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.18809 [4] https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/drinking-water-health-advisories-pfoa-and-pfos [5] https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2023-03/331-718.pdf

Recent studies indicated that PFASs, or “Forever Chemicals,” exist in roughly 45% of the nation's tap water and 60% of tested well water in 16 states. In this guide, we will explain what PFASs are, their negative impact on your health, and how to protect your employees and customers from them. What are PFAS? PFAS stands for Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. PFASs are man-made chemicals made with carbon-fluorine bonds, which make them highly stable and resistant to heat, water, and oil. They are often called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body. PFASs can be found all around us, and we can be exposed to them in various ways. These include but are not limited to: Drinking water Some types of extinguisher foam Contaminated food and food packaging Contaminated soils and biosolids PFASs Are Harmful to Your Health And Business The most common way you will be exposed to PFASs is through eating or drinking contaminated products. These chemicals are tasteless, odorless, and can enter the bloodstream through your intestinal tract. From there, they linger in your blood, fat cells, proteins, and liver. Studies have shown that this carries a wide range of health risks, like Hormonal imbalances Increased cholesterol levels and risks of obesity Impaired immunity and reduced vaccine responses Developmental issues in the young Increased risks of cancer, including in the kidneys and prostate These risks also have an effect on your business, as reduced immunity can lead to more sick days and increased numbers of your employees becoming sick at the same time during peak contagion seasons. This also affects the costs of healthcare as employees struggle with long-term ailments. Industries may also face legal battles and regulatory fines as government regulations continue to crack down on exposing employees and consumers to these chemicals. How to Remove PFASs From Your Drinking Water The best way to remove PFASs from your water supply is based on the kind of PFAS you are dealing with. This will require an EPA methodized lab test based on what you are trying to regulate. Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) filters and carbon block filters work well for older and longer PFAS chain molecules like Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), but they become less efficient on shorter chains. Reverse Osmosis (OS) works very well against short chains, and their efficiency can be increased with an activated charcoal stage. However, they use more water than other water treatment methods. Anion exchange works well against short chains of PFAS by attracting and holding the compounds as they pass through the filter. Distillation removes all PFAS compounds, but it also removes all the beneficial minerals at the same time. Common methods like boiling, water softeners, and most standard pitcher or fridge water filters are not efficient in removing PFAS. Some pitcher filters may remove some, but they are not currently certified to do so. When you look for an ideal filtration solution, make sure it meets NSF/ANSI standards for PFAS removal. Sparkling Clear is Dedicated to Keeping Your Water Free of Forever Chemicals Since 1985, our mission is and will continue to be doing right by you. As knowledge and science expand on forever chemicals, we will also evolve to help you maintain a standard of health and excellence in your water. Contact us today to learn more.