WINTER MAINTENANCE
Of course, some may reason that powerful magnetic devices provide an added layer of ‘security’ when paired with physical filters, but this an extremely weak (and expensive) argument. The fact remains that appropriate physical filtration technologies eliminate the need for magnets in closed systems where suspended solids are of concern. Actual peace of mind would be better delivered by investing in physical filters that feature smart alert technology, so that engineers know precisely when filter bags require changing.
“A correctly applied and maintained
water treatment programme will optimise system energy efficiency, operation, heat transfer and life expectancy.”
It is also important to consider the health and safety concerns that come with many devices containing strong magnets. For example, workers with pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and/or electromechanical devices (such as an insulin pump) are advised not to use, service or work in close vicinity (30cm) of some magnetic devices (these warnings are usually present on the unit themselves). There is also a risk of crush injuries during routine maintenance. Moreover, strong magnetic fields can interfere with sensor cables and sensitive monitoring equipment, and wipe data from
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some hard drives, credit cards, certain phones & digital cameras, and some laptops and tablets.
Unsurprisingly, these concerns give rise to a number of responsibilities with which system owners must adhere. These include (where devices containing strong magnets are installed): placing warning signs on all access points to plant rooms containing magnetic devices and creating exclusion zones (and putting up warning signs) around any devices containing strong magnets.
In addition, any permit-to-work schemes should include questions regarding whether or not a worker has any pacemaker, ICD or electromechanical medical device, while risk assessment/method statements for routine maintenance should consider the potential for crush injuries during essential magnet cleaning, as well as the risk posed to persons with electromechanical devices. Furthermore, delivery companies, warehouse personnel and freight forwarders should be notified of the risk of exposure to strong magnetic fields. This effort is considerable for a device that is completely unnecessary.
Given the fact that appropriate physical filtration technologies can achieve equal if not better results when it comes to the removal of suspended solids, don’t carry serious health and safety concerns, and offer a raft of additional benefits (for example, newer technologies combine side stream filtration with continuous air removal and chemical dosing), powerful magnets are becoming a far less attractive option.
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