How do I know when it is time to change my electrodes?

Under normal conditions, electrodes can last anywhere from several months to several years depending on the type of operation, rate of production, strength of product, and quality of the raw materials used in the process. Because each application is different, there is no average life expectancy. Indication that the electrodes may need to be replaced are:

• leaking at the electrode
• erratic ORP control
• a significant change in set point to achieve the same excess alkalinity level

Sometimes the electrodes will only need cleaning and not replacement. Contact Powell's Technical Service department and request Powell Literature #2600 for more information.

Why are my ORP readings fluctuating above & below the controller set point?

On a continuous system, some fluctuating above and below the set point is normal and should not be a concern unless it is tripping the high and low ORP alarms or the desired excess alkalinity level cannot be maintained. There are so many factors that can cause ORP fluctuation and a Technical Service Representative can help troubleshoot the problem. Here are a few of the most common causes:

• worn or dirty electrodes
• partially plugged chlorine line and pressure variations
• unsteady water or caustic flow
• partially plugged reactor
• vapor chlorine coming in with the liquid
• faulty control valve transducer
• or a defective control valve.

Do you have recommended maintenance procedures for my Powell system?

Recommended maintenance procedures and intervals are different depending on the type of Powell product you own. Consult your Powell operating manual for recommended maintenance procedures specific to your Powell system. If your operating manual is not accessible or if you require further assistance, contact Powell's Technical Service department.

Can Powell repair my machine parts?

Powell has a clean, modern repair facility and can repair and calibrate most of the parts associated with our equipment, such as:

• Pumps
• Valves
• Pressure Transmitters
• Temperature Transmitters
• Signal Transmitters
• Transducers
• Gauges
• Pressure Switches
• Controllers
• Flow Meters
• Air Motors
• and more.

Call us at 989.681.2158 or email us for a return authorization number today.

Can electrodes be rebuilt?

Powell ORP electrodes can be rebuilt over and over again with the exception of when the plastic body is broken or the threads are damaged. Electrode repair kits are available from Powell or you may opt to have a Powell Service Technician rebuild your electrodes for a small fee. Contact Powell's Technical Service department by emailing techservice@powellfab.com or by calling 989.681.2158.

Why can’t I get chlorine into the bleach machine?

Following are the most common reasons not enough chlorine will come into the bleach machine:

• partially plugged chlorine line
• hand or automatic valve somewhere in the pipeline is either closed or not fully open
• a stuck check valve
• a defective control valve
• low line pressure or a seated excess flow valve on the rail car.

Why is my bleach dirty or dark colored?

The most common cause for dark colored bleach is due to a high iron content in either the process water or concentrated caustic supply. Occasionally, iron contamination can also be caused from either an incorrect piping component or a failed liner of a plastic lined metal piping system for bleach. If you are experiencing a problem, iron content tests should be done on the water and caustic. A total iron content in the finished bleach of around 1 PPM or above may start discoloration of the bleach. A common misconception is that iron will decompose the bleach. Iron will not cause decomposition, only discoloration. Decomposition is caused by heavy metal contamination such as nickel or copper. For more information on decomposition, see Sodium Hypochlorite General Information for the Consumer. A Powell filter system can remove virtually all discoloration and heavy metals, making it more stable and appear much cleaner. See Effectiveness of Filtering Liquid Bleach for more information.

Why do I sometimes have to change my ORP set point to get the correct excess caustic?

Occasionally, the ORP set point will need to be changed due to worn or dirty electrodes. Necessary adjustments can be determined by performing regular bleach tests. Other things that may cause a necessary change in the ORP set point include:

• soft versus hard water
• different grade of caustic
• different caustic supplier
• or additives in the water or caustic.

How can I get my bleach production faster?

Powell can help upgrade most bleach systems to run faster than originally designed. Powell can engineer an upgrade of the current system and offer a complete upgrade package. Many times most or all of the work can be performed by regular plant maintenance personnel, reducing labor charges by Powell. Since each installation is different, consult Powell for discussion of what your system would need.

Why aren't my chlorine hoses and automatic valves lasting very long?

The most common reason that chlorine valves and hoses on a chlorine unloading system do not last long is moisture. The moisture could be from padding the car with wet air or from not capping the hoses and pipelines after disconnecting. This will attract moisture from the ambient air, attacking the piping components.

How often should I calibrate my chlorine detection equipment?

Calibration intervals for chlorine detection equipment varies according to plant procedures and manufacturer recommendations. As a general rule, calibrate all equipment at least every six months. Since most warning systems and automated shutoff systems rely on the chlorine detection equipment, it is imperative that it be kept in good working order and tested at least monthly. Powell offers a chlorine generator that can be used in calibrating and testing your chlorine equipment. Reference Troubleshooting Tools for more information.

Why do I need expansion chambers on my liquid chlorine line?

Expansion tanks are recommended at each location where liquid chlorine can be trapped between two valves, even if the valves are normally left open. One area that is often overlooked is protection of the flexible transfer lines at the railcar. As the temperature of the trapped liquid chlorine increases in the pipeline, the pressure also increases. The expansion tank is designed with a rupture disc to blow at approximately 300 PSI to allow the expanding chlorine someplace to go (and to relieve the line pressure) instead of blowing a gasket or something else in the pipeline and releasing chlorine to the atmosphere. Pressure on the expansion tank gauge indicates a blown rupture disc. When this occurs, the rupture disc needs to be replaced as soon as downtime allows. The expansion tank should be sized for approximately 20% of the volume of the area being protected. For more information on sizing see Chlorine Expansion Tanks