How Do Ion Generators Work?

Ionizers use the process of electrolysis (passing electric current through water) to create metallic ions in water. An ion is an atom or group of atoms that possess an electric charge. An ion gets its electrical charge by losing or gaining electrons. If it gains an extra electron then it is a negative ion, also called an anion. If it loses an electron it is a positive ion or a cation. Passing an electric current between two metal electrodes in water will create positively charged ions of the metal of the cathode. If the cathode is copper then copper ions (Cu2+) are created. Copper ions in water significantly reduce or eliminate algae growth.

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Copper ions in water kill bacteria. Ionizers work by passing a low DC current through a set of metallic electrodes, placed in line with the water circulation system and set slightly apart from each other. The voltage causes some of the outermost atoms of the electrodes to lose electrons, which attempt to flow across the space between the electrodes but instead are carried away by the flow of water. The rate of ion creation is proportional to the ratio of Copper and Titanium in the electrodes. The ion levels are monitored electronically by the system and are controlled and adjusted by changing the current flow across the electrodes.  Oxidation of organics is also accomplished in the ion chamber where, in addition to producing ions, the electrodes also electrolyze the water separating it into two elements, hydrogen and oxygen. The ion generator oxidizes the biofilm that serves as a binding agent adhering scale to heat exchanger surfaces.  Ion generators loosen and remove the scale when the biofilm is present. Polarized minerals in the water stay in solution and as the existing scale softens when the oxidation process is implemented, the attached minerals are released into the flow where they are continuously filtered out of the water. When scale buildup on condenser tubes is eliminated, higher heat transfer rates are achieved. Increasing the condenser heat transfer rate will reduce the chiller head pressure, which then allows the chiller to operate more efficiently and consume less energy.  Properly maintained and sensibly applied an ionizer system is capable of satisfying basic purification, descaling and cleansing needs. These properties have made ionization very effective for cooling tower water treatment. For decades, ion generators have been used to purify drinking water, and most recently have been applied to swimming pools, where algae and bacteria find a fertile environment.  During the last 20 years, technological improvements have made commercial ion generators both economically feasible and ion generators to treat cooling tower water is a relatively new practice, however, its market as a result of water and energy savings and environmental benefits relative to traditional processes.