A method, system and device for disintegration of hardness and scale forming molecules from hard water using non sacrificing electrodes and a method for collecting the scale particles for periodic disposal / removal

Abstract

A device and method for prevention of scales while using hard water which especially adhere to the pipelines of water distribution systems and cause irreparable damage to various components is provided. Accordingly, non-sacrificing electrodes made of Titanium coated with mixed metal oxides, powered by a control panel are fixed inside a chamber made of SS / MMO coated Titanium tubes and the water to be treated is made to flow through this chamber. When the water flows through this and the electrodes get powered, and electrolysis process takes place inside the chamber which disintegrates the molecular structure of the hardness causing compounds in such a way they will lose the property of depositing as scale inside the pipelines, on the floorings, on the bathroom fittings wherever the water is used. Also, the residual scale particles are collected in the electrodes which can be periodically cleaned using reverse polarity mechanism.

Description

[0001] A method, system and device for disintegration of hardness and scale forming molecules from hard water using non sacrificing electrodes and a method for collecting the scale particles for periodic disposal / removal

[0002] INTRODUCTION:-

[0003] This invention relates to the field of water treatment. Further, the invention relates to prevention of scale formation in hard water. Furthermore this invention relates to that of a device using non sacrificing electrodes of MMO coated titanium for breaking up of the hardness and scales causing particles in hard water. Still furthermore the invention relates to that of disintegration of scale forming molecules of hard water and getting the residual matter of the scales collected in the electrode which can be periodically cleaned using reverse polarity mechanism.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF INVENTION:-

[0005] Availability of usable water for purposes like, drinking, cooking, washing, bathing, agriculture and industrial is proving to be a humongous challenge in countries all over the World. Availability of fresh water through various sources varies between nations of the world and even making the fresh water safe for human consumption throws a lot of hurdles. Many countries have problems with hard water which has dissolved solids, salts which increase the salinity and other non desirable factors and also have an impact on the pH factor of the water, rendering it ineligible for drinking , other domestic, industrial and agricultural purposes.

[0006] Presently we have many systems which claim to condition the water and avoid scale formation such as: Magnetic water conditioners: These have a permanent magnet fixed around the pipe and they claim that it conditions the water and does not form scale. This comes in different sizes suitable for different pipe sizes. They don’t correlate with the flow of water in the pipeline. These don’t produce consistent results over a period of time.

[0007] Further, there are limitations in magnetic water conditioners like,

[0008] Installation Restrictions: These devices are primarily effective when installed on non-metallic and non-magnetic pipelines. Their effectiveness can be significantly reduced or even negated when used on pipes made of materials like steel or iron.

[0009] • Size Limitations: While available in various sizes to accommodate different pipe diameters, the selection of the appropriate size often does not adequately consider the actual water flow rate within the pipeline. This can lead to inconsistent or ineffective treatment.

[0010] • Lack of Measurable Change: Scientifically, there is little to no evidence to support claims of significant changes in the physical or chemical properties of water after passing through a magnetic field. Studies have generally failed to demonstrate any observable or measurable differences in water quality before and after treatment with magnetic water conditioners.

[0011] Chemical filters loaded with anti-scale resins / chemicals. These are also based on the diameter of pipes irrespective of flow in the pipe line. These also don’t provide consistent results over a period of time.

[0012] These systems did not provide consistent performance over a period of time hence there was need for researching on several technologies and as a result of the innovation this technology has resulted.

[0013] Chemical softeners are commonly employed to mitigate the hardness of borewell water. These systems utilize a bed of resin. As hard water passes through this resin bed, the hardness-causing carbonate ions become attached to the resin beads, resulting in softened water that is free from these ions.

[0014] Once the resin bed becomes saturated with hardness-causing ions, it requires regeneration. This process involves flushing the resin bed with a concentrated solution of common salt (sodium chloride - NaCl). During regeneration, the accumulated hardness-causing ions are released from the resin and carried away by the salt solution. This brine solution, containing the displaced hardness ions, is typically discharged into the drainage system.

[0015] The discharge of this concentrated salt solution into the environment poses a significant environmental concern. The introduction of high levels of salt into the drainage system can ultimately lead to increased salinity in groundwater, potentially impacting the quality of water resources.

[0016] Chemical water softeners, while a common method for treating hard water, have several limitations:

[0017] • Maintenance: They require regular maintenance, including periodic regeneration of the resin bed using a brine solution.

[0018] • Salt Usage: Regeneration relies heavily on sodium chloride (salt), which can contribute to environmental concerns when disposed of improperly.

[0019] • Hardness Limitations: These systems are typically most effective for water hardness levels up to 1000 mg / L.

[0020] • Resin Disposal: The resin bed has a limited lifespan (around 3-4 years) and ultimately needs to be replaced. Improper disposal of spent resin can lead to environmental contamination.

[0021] • Sodium Content: Softened water may contain higher levels of sodium, which can be a concern for individuals on sodium-restricted diets or those with certain health conditions.

[0022] Reverse Osmosis water purification: Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a sophisticated water purification technology that effectively removes a wide range of impurities from water. The process involves forcing water under high pressure through a semipermeable membrane. This membrane acts as a selective barrier, allowing only water molecules to pass through while effectively blocking larger molecules, dissolved salts, and other contaminants.

[0023] To enhance the efficiency of the RO process, the water undergoes a preliminary treatment stage before it reaches the membrane. This pre-treatment typically involves filtering out larger particles and removing chlorine, which can damage the delicate membrane.

[0024] During the RO process, a significant portion of the incoming water is not converted into purified water. Typically, only 30% to 60% of the feed water is recovered as permeate (the purified water that passes through the membrane). The remaining water, which is now concentrated with dissolved solids and other impurities, is discarded as wastewater or brine. This inherent characteristic of RO systems, where a substantial amount of water is wasted as brine, is a key factor to consider in terms of water conservation and environmental impact. Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems, while effective for water purification, have several significant limitations:

[0025] • High Energy Consumption: RO systems require substantial energy to operate the high- pressure pumps necessary to force water through the membranes. This high energy demand translates to increased electricity costs and a larger environmental footprint.

[0026] • High Initial Investment: The initial cost of purchasing and installing an RO system can be substantial. This includes the cost of the RO unit itself, as well as the associated components like pre-filters, storage tanks, and pumps. • High Water Waste: A significant portion of the feed water is not converted into purified water. Typically, only 30% to 60% of the incoming water is recovered as permeate (the purified water). The remaining water, concentrated with dissolved solids and other impurities, is discarded as wastewater or brine. This high water wastage has significant environmental implications.

[0027] • Brine Disposal Challenges: The concentrated brine water generated by RO systems contains high levels of dissolved solids. Improper disposal of this brine can lead to contamination of groundwater and soil, increasing the overall salinity of the environment.

[0028] • Membrane Limitations: The RO membranes used in these systems have a limited lifespan and eventually degrade over time. Replacing these membranes can be expensive, and the disposal of used membranes poses environmental challenges due to their complex chemical composition.

[0029] These limitations highlight the need for careful consideration and responsible management when implementing RO systems for water purification.

[0030] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION: -

[0031] The primary object of the invention is to provide a device and method for prevention of scale formation when we use bore well water / hard water for domestic, commercial, industrial and agricultural purposes.

[0032] It is still further an object of the invention to provide a non-sacrificing electrode made of Titanium and coated with mixed metal oxides, which is powered by a control panel. It is yet another object of the invention to provide an electrode which is fixed inside a chamber made of SS / MMO coated Titanium tube and the water to be treated is made to flow through this pipe.

[0033] Still further, it is an object of the invention to provide ways and means for the water to flow through this and the electrodes get powered, and electrolysis process takes place inside the chamber which disintegrates the molecular structure of the hardness causing compounds in such a way they will lose the property of depositing as scale inside the pipelines, on the floorings, on the bathroom fittings wherever the water is used.

[0034] Still furthermore, it is an object of the invention to provide an MMO coated Titanium electrode and enable to disintegrate the molecular structure of the hardness / scale forming compounds and also collect the residual scale particles in the electrode which can be periodically cleaned using reverse polarity mechanism.

[0035] Still further, it is an object of the invention is to provide technology which is designed to effectively prevent scale formation even in regions with extremely high water hardness, exceeding the limitations of many conventional methods.

[0036] And finally it is yet another object of the present invention to provide the scale harbor® technology that aims to enhance the quality of treated water, leading to improved lathering, softer skin and hair, and a more enjoyable bathing and laundry experience

[0037] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0038] This is an equipment to prevent scale formation when we use bore well water / hard water for domestic, commercial, industrial and agricultural purposes. This unit consists of nonsacrificing electrode made of Titanium and coated with mixed metal oxides, which is powered by a control panel. This electrode is fixed inside a chamber made of SS / MMO coated Titanium tube and the water to be treated is made to flow through this pipe. When the water flows through this and the electrodes get powered, and electrolysis process takes place inside the chamber which disintegrates the molecular structure of the hardness causing compounds in such a way they will lose the property of depositing as scale inside the pipelines, on the floorings, on the bathroom fittings and wherever the water is used be it industrial or agricultural.

[0039] This Equipment finds tremendous use in domestic, commercial industrial and agricultural applications and can avoid the use of harmful chemical softeners. This adds to double benefits of avoiding scale formation on all the materials that comes in contact with water and reducing the pollution caused in adding common salt for regeneration of softener resin and letting them out in the open and by avoiding any need to discard the used resin.

[0040] When the water flows through this and the electrodes get powered, and electrolysis process takes place inside the chamber which disintegrates the molecular structure of the hardness causing compounds in such a way they will lose the property of depositing as scale inside the pipelines, on the floorings, on the bathroom fittings wherever the water is used and also a portion of scale gets accumulated in the electrode, which has to be periodically removed and washed.

[0041] The desirable effects of the process are there is no Scale formation in the entire system where you use the bore well water / hard water. As scale are not formed the entire pipeline, it does not get choked soon, so there is no need for periodical chemical cleaning.

[0042] The life of the pipeline, bathroom fittings, Geyser, washing machines , Tiles, closet in the domestic sector and a the life of agricultural irrigation systems and industrial systems which comes in contact with this treated water are increased, so the cost of replacement is reduced and an additional benefit of saving on pollution that happens in discarding the scale formed and rusted fittings.

[0043] Description of the preferred embodiments:- The Scale Harbor incorporates a control panel as a crucial component of its operation. This control panel serves the vital function of converting standard 220V AC power into the specific DC voltage required for the electrolytic process with the current controller. To ensure durability and protection, the control panel is typically housed within a robust enclosure, which can be constructed from either mild steel or a durable ABS material.

[0044] The Scale Harbor's functionality centers around the wet portion, where the core electrochemical reactions take place. This section features a water chamber, meticulously engineered from either stainless steel or a highly corrosion-resistant material: Titanium coated with Mixed Metal Oxides (MMO). This chamber is strategically connected to the negative output terminal of the control panel, effectively functioning as the cathode within the electrolytic cell.

[0045] Complementing the cathode, a strategically positioned positive electrode (Anode) plays a crucial role. This electrode, designed as a mesh for optimal surface area and efficiency, is crafted from MMO-coated Titanium. This configuration maximizes the electrode's ability to interact with the flowing water and facilitate the electrolytic process. To accommodate diverse applications and water flow rates, the Scale Harbor® is available in a range of capacities, each tailored to specific requirements. These variations encompass different pipe sizes and electrode dimensions, ensuring optimal performance and adaptability across various installations

[0046] Dependence on Municipal / public water will be reduced and the bore well water itself can be used for all purposes other than drinking and It would also increase the life of domestic water purifiers at home.

[0047] Description and Working of the equipment:

[0048] The Scale Harbor® is an innovative solution designed to combat the challenges posed by hard water. It effectively prevents the formation of scale, those unsightly and damaging deposits that accumulate within water systems. This device employs a sophisticated electrolytic process to achieve its remarkable results.

[0049] At the heart of the Scale Harbor® lies a non-sacrificial electrode, meticulously crafted from Titanium and coated with a robust layer of Mixed Metal Oxides (MMO). This robust electrode is strategically positioned within a specially designed chamber, typically constructed from Stainless Steel or, alternatively, Titanium coated with MMO for enhanced durability. As hard water flows through this chamber, the electrode, energized by a controlled power source, initiates the electrolysis process.

[0050] During electrolysis, the electrical current interacts with the hardness-causing compounds present in the water, primarily calcium and magnesium ions. This interaction alters the molecular structure of these compounds, effectively preventing them from adhering to surfaces within the water system. While a portion of the scale may accumulate on the electrode itself, the majority of the hardness-causing compounds are rendered harmless, passing through the system without leaving behind any deposits.

[0051] To ensure optimal performance and longevity of the Scale Harbor®, a simple maintenance procedure is recommended. Periodically, the water flow is temporarily diverted, and the polarity of the electrode is reversed. This polarity reversal facilitates the removal of any accumulated scale from the electrode surface, maintaining its effectiveness and ensuring continued protection against scale formation.

[0052] When the Scale Harbor® electrode is switched ON, there is an enhanced catalytic activity towards oxygen evolution reaction (OER) as well as chlorine evolution reaction (CER).

[0053] • Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER): 2H2O ^ O2+ 4H++ 4e"

[0054] • Chlorine Evolution Reaction (CER): o 2C1" — Ch + 2e" o Cl" + H2O ^ HC1O + H++ 2e" o Cl" + FEO CIO + 2H++ 2e" o Ch + H2O HC10 + H++ Cl"

[0055] • Hypochlorous Acid Dissociation: HC10 — H++ CIO"

[0056] The precipitation and deposition of hardness-causing Ca2+and Mg2+ions occur through these reactions:

[0057] • O2+ 2H++ 2e" H2O2

[0058] • H2O2 OH" + »OH

[0059] • Ca2++ OH" Ca(OH)2

[0060] • Mg2++ OH" Mg(OH)2

[0061] • Na++ OH" — > NaOH

[0062] Scale Harbor® treatment of hard water generates metal hydroxide precipitates (Ca(OH)2and Mg(OH)2) that deposit on the cathode. This is driven by the in-situ production of hydroxide ions (OH") and reactive hydroxyl radicals (»OH). Simultaneously, chlorate ions are generated, disinfecting the water by killing bacteria and preventing both scale formation and the accumulation of biological matter on surfaces contacting the water. This synergistic action of OH", »OH, and chlorate ions not only inhibits scale but also conditions the water, improving lathering, promoting healthier skin and hair, and enhancing laundry cleaning, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable and comfortable water experience, lathering, promoting healthier skin and hair, and enhancing laundry cleaning, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable and comfortable water experience. These benefits also extend towards industrial and agricultural applications preventing scale formation wherever the treated water comes in contact.

[0063] To ensure optimal performance and longevity of the Scale Harbor®, a simple maintenance procedure is recommended. Periodically, the water flow is temporarily diverted, and the polarity of the electrode is reversed. This polarity reversal facilitates the removal of any accumulated scale from the electrode surface, maintaining its effectiveness and ensuring continued protection against scale formation.

[0064] The benefits of utilizing the Scale Harbor® extend beyond the prevention of scale build up. By effectively mitigating the impact of hard water, this innovative device enhances the overall quality of the water. Users can expect to experience improved soap lathering, resulting in a more efficient and satisfying cleaning experience. Furthermore, the treated water exhibits enhanced skin and hair friendliness, leaving users with a softer, more comfortable feel after bathing or showering. Additionally, laundry washed with treated water tends to appear cleaner and feel softer, contributing to a more enjoyable laundry experience. These benefits also extend towards industrial and agricultural applications preventing scale formation wherever the treated water comes in contact.

[0065] From an environmental perspective, the Scale Harbor® offers significant advantages. By eliminating the need for harmful chemical softeners, it contributes to a healthier and more sustainable environment. Moreover, it eliminates the reliance on salt-based water softeners, thereby reducing the environmental impact associated with salt disposal and the potential for groundwater contamination. In conclusion, the scale Harbor® offers a cutting-edge solution to the challenges of hard water. Its innovative design, featuring titanium mesh electrodes coated with mixed metal oxides (MMO), a water chamber outer body used as a cathode, polarity reversal technology, and an electrochemical process, provides a reliable and environmentally friendly method for preventing scale formation, improving water quality, and promoting sustainable water treatment.

Claims

CLAIMSWe Claim1) 1) A scale harbor® designed to combat the challenges posed by hard water, comprising of a non-sacrificial electrode, meticulously crafted from Titanium and coated with a robust layer of Mixed Metal Oxides (MMO)and the said electrode is strategically positioned within a specially designed chamber, typically constructed from Stainless Steel or, alternatively, Titanium coated with MMO for enhanced durability. As hard water flows through this chamber, the electrode, energized by a controlled power source, initiates the electrolysis process2) The scale harbor® as claimed in claim 1, This electrolysis process interacts with the hardness-causing compounds present in the water, primarily calcium and magnesium ions. This interaction alters the molecular structure of these compounds, effectively preventing them from adhering to surfaces within the water system. While a portion of the scale may accumulate on the electrode itself, the majority of the hardness-causing compounds are rendered harmless, passing through the system without leaving behind any deposits3) The scale harbor® as claimed in claim 1, wherein to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the Scale Harbor®, a simple maintenance procedure is recommended. Periodically, the water flow is temporarily diverted, and the polarity of the electrode is reversed. This polarity reversal facilitates the removal of any accumulated scale from the electrode surface, maintaining its effectiveness and ensuring continued protection against scale formation and further process can either be done manually or it can be automated.4) The scale harbor® as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said Scale Harbor® effectively prevents scale formation on any surface which comes in contact with the treated water, eliminating the need for frequent and costly chemical cleaning5) The scale harbor® as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said Scale Harbor® operateswith minimal water wastage and low power consumption, while eliminating the generation of harmful waste products like salt, resins, and discarded membranes, thereby ensuring environmental sustainability.6) The Scale Harbor® as claimed in claim 1, delivers treated water with enhanced lathering properties, improved skin and hair friendliness, and contributes to cleaner laundry, resulting in a more enjoyable and comfortable water usage experience.7) The Scale Harbor® as claimed in claim 1, prevents scale formation in the pipelines of agricultural irrigation systems and eventually resulting in scale prevention in the soil.8) The Scale Harbor® as claimed in claim 1, prevents scale formation in the pipelines of industrial applications, hot water systems, cooling water systems, etc wherever treated water comes in contact.

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