Which method does James W. Jardine Water Purification Plant use?

Located in the western suburbs of Chicago, the James W. Jardine Water Purification Plant is the largest water filtration plant in the world. It serves around 5 million residents and treats an average of 1 billion gallons of water per day. But which method does it use to purify the water?

The Process

The James W. Jardine Water Purification Plant uses a conventional treatment process. This process involves several steps to remove impurities and contaminants from raw water before distributing it to consumers.

The first step in the process is coagulation, where chemicals such as alum are added to the water to create flocs. These flocs act as a magnet, attracting small particles such as dirt and bacteria, to form larger clumps that can be filtered out later.

The second step is sedimentation, where the water is left to rest in a large tank so that the flocs can sink to the bottom. This separates the heavier particles from the water, making it clearer.

The third step is filtration, where the water is passed through different layers of sand, gravel, and anthracite coal. This removes any remaining particles and bacteria by trapping them in the filter media.

The final step is disinfection, where chemicals such as chlorine are added to the water to kill any remaining bacteria and viruses. This ensures that the water is safe and clean for distribution to consumers.

The Benefits of Conventional Treatment

The conventional treatment process used by the James W. Jardine Water Purification Plant is a tried and tested method that has been used for over a century. It is effective in removing impurities and contaminants from raw water, making it safe for consumption.

Another benefit of conventional treatment is that it is cost-effective. The equipment and chemicals used in the process are readily available and relatively inexpensive compared to other treatment methods.

Furthermore, the conventional treatment process is simple to operate and requires little maintenance, making it a preferred option for large-scale water treatment plants such as the James W. Jardine Water Purification Plant.

The Future of Water Treatment

The James W. Jardine Water Purification Plant has been providing clean and safe water to millions of residents in the Chicago area for decades. As the world faces new challenges such as climate change and emerging contaminants, new and innovative water treatment methods are being developed.

One such method is advanced oxidation, which uses a combination of chemicals and ultraviolet light to break down contaminants such as pharmaceuticals and pesticides. While this method is still in its early stages of development, it shows promise in addressing emerging water treatment challenges.

As the need for safe and clean water continues to grow, it is important to continue to explore and develop new water treatment methods. However, the conventional treatment process used by the James W. Jardine Water Purification Plant remains a reliable and cost-effective method for providing clean and safe water to millions of people.