Monitoring Water for Iron With​ KETOS SHIELD

Do you need to monitor for iron in your water? KETOS SHIELD allows for real-time water quality monitoring of various water testing parameters while lowering up-front costs with our industry-leading $0-CAPEX subscription model. 

As an award-winning smart water management solution, KETOS SHIELD provides real-time monitoring for iron, various heavy metals (copper, lead, mercury, and more), and 30+ other water testing parameters. Monitoring is seamless. Leverage an interoperable system that uploads your data to the cloud for easy 24/7 access from anywhere.

Why Monitor Water for Iron with KETOS

Iron is found in natural and treated water and domestic and industrial water supplies. Higher amounts of iron have undesirable knock-on effects, including affecting the taste of beverages and causing stains on laundered clothes and surface areas. Additionally, deposits of insoluble iron can lead to equipment issues perpetuated by corrosion in equipment or problems in drip feed irrigation in agricultural scenarios.

Therefore, a variety of industries find it essential to monitor for iron. Monitoring for and controlling iron levels helps fend off corrosion in industrial processes, protects the taste of drinking water in municipal operations, and assists with quality control in food and beverage production.

What are the Issues with Iron in Water?

Iron contamination in water sources presents several challenges due to its potential impact on human health, water quality, and infrastructure integrity. Here are key concerns associated with elevated levels of iron in water:

• Health Risks: Excessive iron levels in drinking water can pose health risks to humans. While small amounts of iron are essential for the body, consuming water with high iron concentrations may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. Long-term exposure to elevated iron levels can also contribute to iron overload in the body, potentially leading to organ damage and increased susceptibility to certain health conditions.
• Aesthetic Problems: Iron contamination can cause aesthetic issues in water, including a reddish-brown discoloration and metallic taste. These characteristics can make water unappealing for drinking, cooking, and other household uses, reducing consumer satisfaction and confidence in water quality.
• Staining and Scaling: High iron levels in water can result in staining of plumbing fixtures, sinks, and laundry. Iron deposits can also accumulate as scale in pipes, water heaters, and appliances, reducing water flow, impairing equipment performance, and increasing maintenance costs for homeowners and businesses.
• Corrosion and Infrastructure Damage: Iron corrosion can accelerate deterioration of metal pipes, fittings, and plumbing fixtures, leading to leaks, pipe failures, and infrastructure damage. Corrosion-related issues can compromise the integrity of water distribution systems, resulting in water loss, service disruptions, and costly repairs for water utilities and municipalities.
• Microbial Growth: Iron can serve as a nutrient source for certain bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms in water. Excessive iron levels may promote microbial growth and biofilm formation in distribution systems, increasing the risk of microbiological contamination and waterborne diseases.
• Treatment Challenges: Removing iron from water sources can be challenging, especially when dealing with dissolved iron or complexed forms of iron. Conventional treatment methods such as oxidation, filtration, and ion exchange may be effective for certain iron species but may require additional pretreatment or post-treatment steps to achieve desired water quality standards.

Causes of Iron in Water

Iron in water can stem from various natural and man-made sources, each contributing to its presence in different ways. One primary cause is geological formations rich in iron deposits, where groundwater dissolves iron minerals, seeping into water sources. Agricultural practices, such as the excessive use of fertilizers containing iron, can also introduce this element into water systems. Corrosion of iron pipes in plumbing systems is another significant contributor, particularly in older infrastructure. Additionally, industrial activities, including mining and manufacturing processes, can release iron into waterways through runoff and waste disposal. These combined factors lead to elevated iron levels in water, impacting its taste, odor, and potentially posing health risks while also affecting the aesthetics and functionality of plumbing fixtures and appliances.

Acceptable Levels of Iron in Water by Industry

Acceptable levels of iron in water vary across industries due to differing needs and potential impacts on processes and equipment. In general, the acceptable range for iron in water is below 0.3 mg/L for drinking water, as higher levels can lead to discoloration, taste issues, and potential health concerns. However, industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and mining may tolerate higher iron concentrations depending on their specific requirements. For example, in agricultural settings, iron levels up to 5 mg/L might be acceptable for irrigation water, while in manufacturing processes, higher concentrations may be permissible depending on the application. Mining industries may have even higher tolerance levels due to the nature of their operations. Adherence to these acceptable levels is crucial to ensure the quality and safety of water for various industrial uses.

How to Easily Monitor Water for Iron

Instead of measuring iron with a meter that only measures a handful of conditions; the KETOS SHIELD is capable of mentoring dozens of water related issues — in real-time. KETOS goes beyond heavy metal testing. Monitor for iron alongside an ever-growing list of water testing parameters for a holistic understanding of water quality.

While KETOS excels in heavy metal testing, its capabilities extend further. Monitor iron levels alongside an expanding array of water testing parameters, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of water quality. With KETOS, gain holistic insights for effective water management and safeguarding against potential contaminants across various industries and applications.

Whether you’re assessing lead levels in agricultural water sources, measuring the Langelier Saturation Index in manufacturing processes, or detecting magnesium in drinking water, KETOS’ automated water monitoring system offers efficient solutions. Save time and mitigate compliance risks with our advanced technology.