Cycles of Concentration Explained

For HVAC professionals, understanding the concept of cycles of concentration is crucial for water management and system efficiency. Simply put, cycles of concentration compare the levels of dissolved solids in make-up water to those in the circulating water. This helps in managing water usage and ensuring the longevity of HVAC systems.

What Are Cycles of Concentration?

The cycles of concentration (COC) can be defined as the ratio of dissolved solids, such as chlorides, in the circulating water compared to those in the make-up water. Essentially, it measures how many times the water is being concentrated before it is discharged or treated.

Why Are Cycles of Concentration Important?

Maintaining an appropriate cycle of concentration is vital for several reasons:

• Maximizing Efficiency: Higher cycles of concentration can reduce the amount of water needed for make-up, minimizing waste and operating costs.
• Controlling Corrosion: An understanding of COC helps in controlling the levels of dissolved solids, which can lead to corrosion and scale buildup in HVAC systems.
• Environmental Impact: Reducing water wastage supports sustainability efforts and helps comply with environmental regulations.

Calculating Cycles of Concentration

To calculate the cycles of concentration, HVAC professionals need to test the chloride levels in both the make-up water and the circulating water. The formula is as follows:

Cycles of Concentration = Chlorides in Circulating Water / Chlorides in Make-Up Water

For instance, if the circulating water has 600 ppm of chlorides and the make-up water has 150 ppm, the cycles of concentration would be:

COC = 600 ppm / 150 ppm = 4

This means that the circulating water is 4 times more concentrated in chlorides than the make-up water.

Best Practices for Managing Cycles of Concentration

Here are a few tips to maintain optimal cycles of concentration in HVAC systems:

• Regularly monitor water quality to adjust treatment processes accordingly.
• Implement treatment systems that optimize water usage and minimize scaling.
• Utilize evaporation techniques to effectively manage dissolved solids.
• Educate team members about the importance of cycles of concentration to promote proactive maintenance.

Conclusion

For HVAC professionals, cycles of concentration play a significant role in maintaining system efficiency, reducing operational costs, and minimizing environmental impacts. By understanding and managing COC, you can ensure your systems run smoothly, effectively, and sustainably.