The UK is in the midst of an historic heatwave and it’s not alone. Temperatures across Spain, Switzerland, France, Germany and northern Italy have been 10-15C above average for late May and it’s likely more records will be broken before the week is out.
Not only is the mercury rising, UV rates caused by radiation from the sun are also high, and while too much UV may be bad for the skin it has multiple beneficial applications across industry, medical treatments, forensic detection, and, of course, in the production of vitamin D (UV-B).
Another plus is its ability to sterilise and disinfect. UV-C light destroys bacteria, viruses and fungi by damaging their genetic material. It is put to use in air sterilisers, food processing, and to sterilise hospital environments.
It is also used in the purification of water – interfering with bacteria’s DNA by preventing it from reproducing and essentially spoiling its fun. Cell division stops and bugs are halted in their tracks.
This is why we have a UV chamber on all filling rigs because it incorporates a further layer of protection into pre-commission fills. It is part of a line of defences that also includes a pre-filter media that quickly captures much of any big nasties; then a BioBlock – a medical grade, sub-micron filter that prevents bacteria entering the system; followed by precision dosing of chemicals.
We do this because we know that water that is filled and treated correctly from the start means networks can operate efficiently and effectively, free from bugs and corrosive elements that would otherwise degrade the pipes and the system water within them.