Sample interview questions: Can you explain the role of water treatment technicians in preventing corrosion and scaling in water distribution systems?
Sample answer:
- Corrosion Prevention:
- Water treatment technicians are responsible for monitoring water quality and implementing strategies to prevent corrosion in distribution systems.
- They analyze the water’s pH, alkalinity, and hardness levels, identifying any corrosive elements that could damage pipes and fixtures.
- Based on the analysis, they adjust the water’s chemical properties by adding corrosion inhibitors, such as polyphosphates, silicates, or molybdates.
-
Regular monitoring and adjustment of water chemistry help minimize corrosion and extend the lifespan of pipes and equipment.
-
Scale Inhibition:
- Scale is a buildup of minerals, primarily calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate, in water distribution systems.
- Water treatment technicians conduct water analysis to determine the potential for scale formation based on its hardness and alkalinity levels.
-
They employ various methods to prevent scale formation, including:
- Water Softening: This process removes hardness-causing minerals, reducing the risk of scale buildup.
- Chemical Dosing: Scale inhibitors, such as polyphosphates, chelating agents, or threshold inhibitors, are added to the water to prevent mineral precipitation.
- pH Adjustment: Maintaining a slightly acidic pH can help dissolve existing scale and prevent new scale formation.
-
Treatment Plant Maintenance:
- Water treatment technicians are involved in the maintenance and operation of water treatment plants.
- They ensure that treatment processes are functioning properly, such as filtration, disinfection, and chemical dosing, to produce safe and high-quality water.
-
They monitor equipment performance, conduct routine inspections, and make necessary repairs or adjustments to maintain optimal water treatment.
-
Customer Service and Education:
- Water treatment technicians interact with customers and provide information about water quality, treatment options, and best… Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/12_0_13/Water%20Treatment%20Technician