UV Light-Based Water Purification System

 

UV Light-Based Water Purification System - Electronic Engineering Guide

1. Introduction

The UV Light-Based Water Purification System is a project aimed at disinfecting water by eliminating bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens using ultraviolet (UV-C) light. This system ensures real-time purification and can be controlled and monitored electronically.

2. Objectives

• Design a compact and efficient UV-based water purification unit.
• Integrate electronic control for UV lamp activation.
• Monitor system operation and water flow conditions.
• Ensure user safety and effective sterilization.

3. Components Required

• Microcontroller (e.g., Arduino Uno, ESP32)

• UV-C Lamp (11W to 40W, 254 nm)

• UV Lamp Driver/Inverter

• Flow Sensor (e.g., YF-S201)

• Solenoid Valve (optional)

• LCD Display or Serial Monitor

• Power Supply (12V or 24V DC)

• Relay Module (to control UV lamp)

• Enclosure, wiring, connectors

4. Working Principle

UV-C light at 254 nm effectively inactivates microorganisms by damaging their DNA. Water passes through a chamber exposed to UV light, which sterilizes the pathogens. The electronics control the activation of the UV lamp and optionally shut off water flow if conditions are unsafe.

5. Circuit Design

• Connect the UV lamp driver circuit to a power source and relay.
• Use the microcontroller to control the relay based on flow sensor data.
• Display system status on an LCD or via serial.
• Include a current sensor or UV intensity sensor for lamp health monitoring (optional).

6. Microcontroller and Sensor Integration

• Connect flow sensor output to a digital input pin.
• Program the microcontroller to activate the UV lamp only when water is flowing.
• Set safety shutdown if flow stops unexpectedly or after a timer expires.
• Display flow rate and UV status on LCD.

7. UV Lamp Driver and Control

• Use a dedicated driver or ballast to power the UV-C lamp.
• Control power to the lamp using a relay module or solid-state relay.
• Implement start-up delay and soft start where necessary to protect the lamp.
• Ensure relay is rated for high-voltage AC operation.

8. Safety Considerations

• UV-C light is harmful to eyes and skin — enclose the lamp in a sealed chamber.
• Add mechanical interlocks to shut off UV if the housing is opened.
• Use a water leak sensor to detect failures in plumbing.
• Add a fan or heatsink if thermal management is needed.

9. Testing and Validation

• Verify flow sensor accuracy using known flow rates.
• Test UV output with a UV meter or test strips.
• Run water with known microbial content and test before/after purification.
• Check power consumption and thermal performance of the lamp.

10. Applications

• Household water sterilization units
• Medical and laboratory water purification
• Aquariums and fish farming
• Bottled water production facilities

11. Limitations and Future Enhancements

• UV only disinfects, it does not remove particles or chemicals.
• UV lamp degrades over time — regular maintenance required.
• Future improvements: IoT monitoring, automatic lamp replacement alerts, solar-powered versions.

12. Conclusion

The UV Light-Based Water Purification System provides an efficient and chemical-free method to disinfect water using electronics. With proper design and safety mechanisms, this system can serve as a reliable water treatment solution for various environments.