Deionisation systems primarily utilise ion exchange (IX) technology. This process commonly removes dissolved solids from water, producing highly pure water. Typical applications of this technology include water purification for semiconductor and solar panel production (to obtain ultrapure water for rinsing), power generation (for condensate polishing and boiler feed water), and steam production (for condensate polishing and boiler feed water).
Ion exchange involves the reversible ions exchange between a resin (the ion exchange material) and a liquid without causing any permanent change in the resin’s structure.
The resin absorbs impure ions (positive and negatively charged) and requires periodic regeneration to restore it to its original ionic form. There are two types of regeneration methods: internal and external. Internal regeneration occurs within the vessel, where the resins are regenerated. External regeneration is a more complex process that occurs outside the purification vessel. In this case, the resin is transferred to a separate regeneration vessel to be regenerated and then returned to the operating vessel.
