Surex Eco Blog

TECHNICAL CHEMICAL INFORMATION PAPER  TCI6/PR/NOV-09

Environmental & Ecological hi-tech chemistry with high reactionary performance covering the use of Cationic Polyacrylamide flocculation in
swimming pools & spas. In both domestic & commercial applications.

Flocculants, clarifiers and co-agulents have been recommended for the removal of suspended particles (colloids) in water to assist with better water quality and the effect on the reduction of sanitizer use.

It has been well proven that continued clarification or flocculation enhancers the usage in the maintaining of levels of both halogens & peroxygens and equally a reduction of compounds used in ‘shock dosing’ requirements.

Surex Internationals invention of Lebloc ™ is high tech chemistry engineered to give both the spa & pool owner ‘an easy application’ and a safe way to apply and use the clarification materials.

There are several clarifiers (flocculants) available in liquid, tablet and in ‘gel’ forms, some require expensive methods of application and maintenance and most are not ecological & environmentally friendly – some in fact are toxic.

Lebloc™ requires no capital expenditure, functions in both cartridge element & sand filters and it’s the only gel block in the world that works in above ground, in ground pools and spas – infact a world exclusive.

Reasons for the use of Lebloc™

1.         Lebloc™ will assist with the clearing of a ‘green pool’ treatment in
            above & in ground pools.

2.         Leaves no residuals behind to vacuum out.

3.         Clears up stubborn hazy water problems quicker than chlorine.

4.         Lebloc™ will aid in the removal of ‘mustard algae’ where generally high 
            levels of chlorine are required to burn out contaminates.

5.         Use Lebloc™ when you ‘open up’ your pool at the start of the year after 
            the winter lay up.

6.         Lebloc™ comes in its own easy to use dispenser.

            It has a very long shelf life.

            Each bloc will treat 85m³ (18000 galls).

            The average domestic spa holds 450lts (100 galls).

            The average domestic in ground pool holds 55m³ (12000 galls).

7.         Use the Surex ‘milk bottle test’ to check colloid presence.

            Pre cleaned glass 2 pint bottle (1.1lts).

            Hold up to direct sunlight – colloids or no colloids.

            If you have colloids you need Lebloc™.

Lebloc™ should not be used in Diatomaceous Earth filters.

It is not compatible with Lebloc’s™ chemistry.

The application of Lebloc™ will also remove phosphates.

Phosphates can come through both tap water and through air movement.

They are food for algae growth & because Lebloc™ contains a phosphate remover it stunts its growth dramatically whilst clarifying both pool & spa water.

Phosphate levels should not exceed 50 mgt/ppm.
Testing strips are available for an easy quick test.

Other pool & spa chemicals that remove phosphates:-

1.         Aluminium Sulphate.

            Found in tablet form, kibble (‘rock’ form) & powder.

            The material has links with Alzimers disease and is dangerous.

2.         Polyaluminium – Chloride (P.A.C.)

            Found in liquid form.

            Again has links with Alzimers disease and is dangerous.

3.         Lanthium Carbonate.

            Found in powder form, tablet, concentrated ‘slurry’ form and liquid
            preperations.

            Harmless.

            This can also be used in fish ponds, natural ponds, lakes and  some fresh
            water and sea water aquatic and animal applications.

4.         Lanthium Chloride (111)

            Similar applications as in compound 3 above.

Lebloc™ is a trade name of Voxsan Ltd.

Leaders in chemical engineering and the oldest pool & spa chemical concern in the EEC with over 80 years of experience.

We are leaders in Ecological & Environmental chemical compounds and energy saving devices and their functions.

We are also consultants and designers of concrete domestic swimming pools.

™ are trade marks & names of Surex International Ltd / Voxsan Ltd / Goodbye Chemical Co Ltd / Magic Box Co  Ltd  / The Water Wizard & Rutherford Engineering.

Members of SPATA, I.R.S.M., & A.P.S.A.

TECHNICAL CHEMICAL INFORMATION PAPER  Ref: TC5/PR/NOV-09

It is said that water treatment chemistry is getting too complicated and trying to understand its complications are becoming ‘nightmare on Elm Street’.

In swimming pools, Koi ponds, Natural ponds, lakes & rivers eutrophical production of any environmental control favours plant life over animal life.

With increasing applications of ‘biodegradable detergents’ poured down the waterways of the country our ‘green’ additives are not true green at all. Too many manufactures of cleaning compounds are adding far too much Phosphate based chemicals.

Thames Water some time back tested levels at 500 times their natural levels. Now days it is common to get up to 500ppm/mgt through the kitchen tap, which is a good turn on to algael growth. In September this year an algae manifestation in St Ives Devon killed several thousand coastal fish.

Phosphates have had a love affair with algae for donkey years and the warmer the water the quicker algae grow.

Phosphates are found naturally in the earth; in mixes of fertilisers, in water ‘softening’ devices that use compounds containing Calgon (Sodium Hexameta Phosphate). The chemical is not dangerous.
They are an irritant, whilst their inhalation, ingestion and contact with skin & eyes should be avoided.

In arable land fertiliser used in the UK the cheapest quality compounds are usually applied which take years to saturate deep  into the earth in aquafils, deep underground water channels that feed into sources for bore hole applications.

In domestic home applications a higher grade of Sodium Meta Phosphate is used for water devices and not recommended for using in swimming pools.

In commercial softening the use of the compound is much larger.

The Water & Waste publication (WWT) way back in 1989 quoted Anglian Water contributing a minimum of at least 50% of Phosphates from the detergent manufacturing giants. 

Too many ‘fully biodegradable’ or ‘Phosphate free’ statements are often made to defend their ‘green status’.

Phosphates are now a big problem in the control of algae.
They cause grief in swimming pools.
They cause acute blanket weed build up in Koi ponds sometimes clogging up circulation pumps.
They can increase bacterial problems in Natural ponds – in fact in mid summer this year blue – green algae called loosely ‘Cyano-Bacteria’ poisoned a collie dog after an afternoon swim at Petworth Park  in Hampshire

How to remove Phosphates.

Phosphorus is an organic compound.

1.        From above ground & in ground swimming pools & spas apply in liquid or  
           slurry format or in ‘gel block’ format.

2.        From fish ponds, Natural ponds and lakes apply in liquid or slurry format,
           gel block format can be used in some applications.

           The material can be extracted by both sand & cartridge element filters
           but not by Diatomaceous or Perlite earth filters.

3.        From in ground swimming pools, fish ponds, Natural ponds & lakes in hard 
           water areas only.

           Install a non-electrical rare earth permanent magnetic conditioner in
           water flow lines.

           This will prevent blanket weed (an algae) sticking to butyl, fibre glass & 
           concrete surfaces and prevents Calcium Carbonate
           (scale, chalk, limestone) building up on the inside of U.V. steriliser tubes,
           gas & air to water heat pumps.

           Remember Calcium Carbonate builds up in both cold & hot water
           temperatures & helps to stabilise both pH & Total Alkalinity.

           Refrain on the use of compounds that contain Phosphates.
           Magnetic conditioners have no effect in soft water conditions.

™ are trade names of Surex International / Voxsan Ltd / Goodbye Chemical Co Ltd

The oldest pool & spa chemical company within the EEC.

The Water Wizards™

TECHNICAL CHEMICAL INFORMATION PAPER  Ref: TC4/PR 10/09

With increasing concerns covering the use of Halogens (Chlorine, Bromine & Fluoride) being applied in both domestic & commercial pool & spas more attention is slowly being paid to ‘Non Chlorine’ donors.

Surex International have been leaders in the use of ‘new age’ per-oxygen chemistry from the late 1980’s and have been instrumental in their development in both granular and tablet form which have been proven to be as effective as Chlorine and generally less expensive.

Surex 002 Oxy-sure™ and Surex 002 Oxy-pure™ are both inorganic materials, safe to use, effective with both ecological and environmental qualities beneficial to asthmatics, dermatitis and other allergy suffers.
Equally the compounds are far less aggressive than Chlorine based materials, compatible and far more comfortable to bathe in.

Surex 002 has certain chemical control parameters that should be noted.

Chlorine (Cl2)
Range of compound affectivity 7.4 – 7.8  pH.           
If over 8 mg/lt/ppm you will loose 25% of your donor.

Bromine (Br)
Range of compound affectivity 5 to 9 pH.     
If over 9 mg/lt/ppm you will loose 25% of your donor.
(Remember Bromine is 50% less effective than Chlorine.)

Surex 002
Range of compound affectivity 2 to 13.5 pH with no loss of oxidising potential.

The versatility of Surex 002
The material is odourless in both water and the atmosphere.
The material will not bleach or burn the grass.
The material can be recycled – Chlorine, Bromine & Fluoride cannot.
The water ways of the UK are being polluted by Halogens when dumped down the drain.
They affect local water treatment plants, riverbeds, reed beds, fishery organisations – they add more grief to further effluent by some of the 20 odd water authorities monitored by Water UK where some have recorded heavy penalties for the abuse of their actions.
Surex 002 will not effect the Ecology or the Environment when put ‘down the drain’.
Surex International have recycled Surex 002 some 2 to 3 times.
Surex 002 will not bleach bathing costumes, swimmers will not experience ‘split ends’ to their hair.
Surex 002 has little if any effect on the skin, eyes and lungs.

The material is far, far less aggressive on pool and spa equipment generally.

With the application of Surex 002 in hard water areas very little if any pool acid (Sodium Bisulphate) is used with the application of Surex 002 into pool and spa waters, this saves on chemical additive costs.
You can swim within two hours.
Chlorine can be used in conjunction with Surex 002 as a ‘shock’ dose but you cannot swim comfortably for a minimum of 1 to 2 days.

Surex International use Surex 002 to ‘burn’ out combine chlorine levels if out of line in leisure clubs, schools etc allowing swimmers to swim comfortably within 1 to 2 hours with out discomfort.

Surex International use Surex 002 in canine convalescence indoor pools, greyhound training pools & equestrian exercise pools, it can be applied to certain fish and aquatic animal applications.

Surex 002 can be used in hydrotherapy & in jetted and whirl pool house hold baths.

Surex 002 versatility is extended with its support as a back up to salt water generators, ionic purifiers, ozone generators in spas and pools, ultra violet (UV) units, Bromine and Chlorine tablets feeders.
Surex 002 is also used with Redox controllers where Surex International have been using its own in house Chemtrol System™ for some 15 years in both domestic and commercially run pools.

Surex International have formulated its own Ecological and Environmentally additive which is Sure 002 Plus™ which can be added to sand filters to slowly buffer any low Total Alkalinity (T.A.) problems in acid conditions over a period of 2 to 3 months to support the Surex 002 programme.

Surex are leaders in the manufacture & supply of water treatment chemicals & products covering the ecology which include gel block technology such as LeBloc™ that incorporates a phosphate remover, TLC ™ cleaning Paste that covers multiple applications, as does Aquastik™ and our most versatile product – The Water Wizard™ magnetic conditioner – a rare earth non electrical unit that lasts forever.

Because Surex International’s experience in chemical applications we suggest that spa owners try the use of Surex Sauna Silk, a non oil based Eucalyptus essence, which added to spa waters at a low level volume clears bronchial tracts to the lungs.
It is compatible with Surex 002 it has no effect on the environment, non hazardous and can create a ‘state of karma’.
Another relief for asthmatics.
You can’t do that with Chlorine.

Whilst covering the issue of per-oxygen’s it should be noted that Hydrogen Peroxide which is inorganic is sold into the pool & spa industry & approved by BISTHA is a class 5.1 oxidising material.
Under present EEC (BPD) Hydrogen Peroxide should not exceed 100 volume (30%) whilst at 135 volume (35%) it is dangerous to handle and a danger if in contact with the eyes.

Non Chlorine chemical additives.
It should be noted that there are alternative chemical systems on the market that are classed as Non Chlorine.
Surex International have over the years seen them come & seen them go therefore respectfully suggest that pool & spa owners check out their validity before purchasing.

Alternative compounds.
Copper Sulphate crystals & liquid.
Toxic to humans, animals & fish.

Copper Sulphate Pentahydrate liquid (CUSo4 5H20)
Classed as poisonous.
Even the above still require a level of Chlorine in their makeup to be a safe guard.

Incidentally veterinary canine users advise the use of Chlorine in indoor doggy convalescence ‘pools’. Dogs have lungs and can take in Trihalomethanes (THMS) apart from irritating their eyes and affecting their coats.

Trihalomethanes are toxic.
Swimmers can take THMS in both indoor & outdoor pools through their skin.

Again on technical academic interest Surex 002 Oxy-Sure™ & Surex 002 Oxy-Pure™ will within the Biocidal Directive coverage will pass 7 out of 7 Chlorine only achieves only 3½ – 4 passes.

Asthmatics are affected by Chlorine with indoor applications particularly life guards, plant operators in badly ventilated indoor areas.
The first ½ metre over the pool surface area cannot be suitably vented causes problems to indoor bathers particularly with pre-natal mother and unborn child swimmers as advocated by the government.
Nitrogen Trichloride is difficult to control and if not suitably controlled Trihalomethanes (THMS) will appear.

Surex 002 cannot produce Trihalomethanes or the associated problems of Nitrogen Trichloride.

™ are trade names of Surex International Ltd / Voxsan Ltd / Goodbye Chemical Co. Ltd.

The oldest Pool & Spa chemical companies within the EEC

The Water Wizards™

RECOMMENDED SIZE PACKS COVERING THE USE AND APPLICATION OF

SUREX 002 OXY-SURE™

Codes        

OXY 1            Internal bathroom whirl-pool & jetted baths.
                    Domestic & commercial ‘fill & drain’ application.
                    Disinfection against Legionaries disease.

                    Indoor & outdoor domestic spas & wooden hot tubs up to 2250 lts
                    (500 gallons).
                    The application of Sodium Thiosulphate will not be required to
                    de-chlorinate.
  
                    Outdoor domestic above ground pools up to 9000 lts
                    (2000 gallons).
                    The application of Sodium Thiosulphate will not be required to
                    de-chlorinate.

                    Indoor domestic & commercial low gallonage water holding tanks 
                    up to 4500lts (1000 Gallons). Disinfection against 
                    Legionaries disease.

                    The application of Sodium Thiosulphate will not be required to 
                    de-chlorinate.

OXY 5           Outdoor domestic above ground pools up to 22500 Lts
                    (5000 gallons).

                    Indoor inground concrete, fibre-glass or liner pools.

                    Outdoor inground concrete, fibre glass or liner pools.

                    Inground outdoor & indoor learner pools & diver practise pools.

                    Indoor domestic & commercial plastic moulded floatation tanks 
                    with filtration systems on a ‘drain & fill ‘basis.

                    Indoor ‘communal baptismal pools on a ‘drain & fill’ basis

                    Indoor & outdoor pools with Surex Chemtrol™ automatic dosing
                    system.

OXY 25          Large domestic inground, indoor or outdoor pools.

                    Indoor commercial pools with Surex Chemtrol ™ automatic dosing 
                    systems.

                    Equestrian exercise pools and certain fish and aquatic animal 
                    applications in pools & ponds.

                    25kg sacks – palletised for inland distribution or for exportation
                    applications.

TECHNICAL CHEMICAL INFORMATION PAPER  Ref: TC3/PR 7/09

This Chemical compound which is supplied in both powder and granular form is commonly known as ‘stabiliser’ or ‘conditioner’.
It is used in swimming pool applications that are ‘unstable’ such as Liquid Hypochlorite (bleach) either as 14-15% or 10/11½%, Calcium Hypochlorite granules or tablets (approx 65–70%) and Lithium Hypochlorite granules (approx 40%).
All the above are part of the Halogen family of water treatment materials.

Cyanuric Acid is generally used in pools that are drained down, cleaned out at the start of the year, and refilled with new water.
Pool owners using salt water generators’ should use Cyanuric Acid to stabilise against chlorine loss.

Cyanuric Acid is added to pool water at approximately 1kg per 35m³ (2lbs per 7500 galls).
The object of this practise is to hold chlorine in pool water to safe guard against both dissipation from both heat and UV loss.

Cyanuric Acid levels should not go above 20 to 40 mgm/lt or 20-40ppm.

High levels of Cyanuric Acid will cause a problem known as ‘Chlorine lock’ and result with pool owners having to pump valuable heated water down the drain affecting the ecology , environment and bank balances.

The age of water meters is around.

Whilst the installation of water flow meters is mandatory in Europe the UK once again lacks European standards.

The UK has the worst records of the wasting of water inside the EEC.
Equally water supply organisations regularly dump effluent into water ways of the UK causing increasing problems to water sewage plants, rivers, reed beds, wild life areas, natural ponds etc.

Chlorine is not ecologically or environmentally friendly and cannot economically be recycled.
There are already concerns regarding its toxilogical suitability.

Cyanuric Acid is the base material in the manufacture of both quick dissolving stabilised Sodium Dichloroisocyanuric Acid granules (Dichlor’) and slow dissolving Trichloroisocyanuric Acid tablets and granules (Trichlor’).
Dichlor contains approx 56-58% chlorine content, Trichlor usually 90%.

These two compounds are the largest selling swimming pool sanitising materials in Europe in the domestic market place.

Dichlor is basically far safer than Trichlor which is regarded as dangerous disinfectant being a 5.1 oxidising agent.

The real problem arises with the continued use of both compounds. The level of Cyanuric Acid cannot be controlled unless frequent dumping of water is carried out.

Cyanuric Acid levels of 80mg/lt (80ppm) plus will cause ‘Chlorine lock’ and water must be dumped as a safeguard to disinfect against possible disease and infections etc.
The higher the ‘Cyanuric Acid level’ – the more you have to dump waste.
Remember high chlorine levels will burn grass, kill off plants, vegetable beds, pond life etc.

Given that Chlorine has been around for some 200 years odd perhaps it is time to look at ‘new age chemicals’.

Even Omar Khayyam’s famous graffiti words on the wall read ‘that the days of chlorine are numbered’.

Huxley’s brave new world will be full of Dodo fossils and hollow carbon footprints when the last light is turned off.

Peroxygen technology which is just as powerful, safer, more beneficial and less expensive I believe is a better sound substitute.

The company that I am consultant for believes that chlorine and in fact all other halogen materials are basically carcinogenetic and could well end up as the next ‘Asbestosis’.

Derek Acca
BSc FISPE
Director

SUREX INTERNATIONAL LTD

UNIT 5 AIRPORT TRADING ESTATE,
BIGGIN HILL, KENT. TN16 3BW

Tel: 01959 575000 / 576000 Fax: 01959 571000
Web: www.surex.co.uk  Email:info@surex.co.uk

TECHNICAL CHEMICAL INFORMATION PAPER  REF: TC2/PR-2/09

Hello my name is Derek Acca – I have been in the pool business far too long.
I came out of the Ark with Noah – he went into P.R – I chose the pool business cos’ no one would employ an ex ‘groupie’ Neanderthal like me.

I want to explain to you a little more about the ‘dangers of pool & spa chemicals’ and open up a can of worms that most of the markets ‘big boys’ try to hide.
When all comes ‘down to dust’ – its all about £-&-$, remember the pool chemicals I am bringing into the spot light are not your Coronation St supermarket stuff – your bleach & gumption cleaners – they are the real thing.

‘Industrial quality chemicals’ – can & have under the right conditions stored in your pool filter shed, garage or store room have led to fires & explosions.
Pool chemical supply factories have burnt to the ground – last example was in Cheltenham some 3 – 4  years ago.
In many cases in the light commercial market place school children in particular, on visits to council run pools, holiday park venues, camping site pool play areas, can pick up’ bugs’ and the effects from mishaps made by poorly trained plant operators that could place the children in danger.

Not enough of concerns ‘coming clean’ covering chemical choice, selection, storage, adequate labelling & chemical control in the pool industry comes into the daylight by those that should know better.

Example of choice of compound.
Aluminium Sulphate & Poly Aluminium Chloride (both cheap flocculating/clarifiers), Copper Sulphate Penta Hydrate (now listed as a poison in Australia) are often blended into Chlorinated substances in slow releasing tablet forms to keep prices down & profits up.
Given the increase of Aluminium used in contact with water Alzheimer’s disease over the past 7-10 years is up some 60-70% with no real remedies in the near future.
Alzheimer’s is a horrible way to die.
I consider these mixes dangerous.

General Chlorine is not my choice of a sanitiser, disinfectant or oxidising agent – call it what you like.
Equally I am not in favour and dislike all ‘Halogen’ compounds – Chlorine, Bromine, Fluoride, and Iodine in main line water disinfection, covering both pool, drinking & general cleaning applications.
In my opinion Halogens are Carcinogenic and could be the next ‘Asbestosis’.
Heavy words you may say – but I am not alone with ‘other echo’s’ from the valleys – incidentally how green is your valley?

The hazards & dangers of some substances sold into the pool market place are not listed in a table of 1 to 10.
Many salient features fail to appear on labelled products or are equally ‘lost in translation’.
Most pool, spa & water treatment operators at all levels simply dump ‘back washed’ water down the drain to waste. Approximately 99% of wasted Chlorinated water is not recycled radically affecting the water ways of the world.
I believe that pool & spa owners should be made more aware of the types of ‘brews’ that they, their children & their buddies loon around in.

If you are lucky enough to have a good responsible chemical supplier that knows his onions – Great – but they are few & far around.
So play safe check chemical labelling.

Examples of checking out seriously dangerous pool & spa chemical compounds:
Trichloro – Iso – Cyanuric Acid: This is a slow dissolving 91% strength of Chlorine & is a Class 5.1 oxidising material.
It is dangerous care & attention should be applied to its application.
The tablet form should be dispensed through a recognised tablet feeder and should be the last thing in the flow back to the pool.
The granular material is more dangerous.
Pool owners using Trichloro – Iso – Cyanuric Acid particularly with heart ailments should never open a tub of the material if unwrapped ‘right under their nose’.
An intake of the fumes could result in ‘heart stop’ and can cause a heart attack.  

Calcium Hypochlorine (also called shock Chlorine).

The compound is a 70% strength of Chlorine.
It is a Class 5.1 oxidising material.
It is the most dangerous & destructive Chlorine sold on the domestic & commercial market place.
Great care should be taken in its application. (Dangerous)
It is available in both tablet & granular form.
The compound is slow dissolving and will slowly degrade vinyl lined surfaces.
Calcium Hypochlorite can cause spontaneous combustion (fires).
I do not recommend its use.

Bromine – mainly used in spas.

It is 50% less effective than most other Halogens and nearly twice as expensive.
It is a Class 5.1 oxidising material, slow dissolving & should only be dispensed in a recognised Bromine feeder.
It has been outlawed in some countries.
It is dangerous. I do not like the substance.

Hydrogen Peroxide liquid non Chlorine treatment. For pools & spas. Odourless.

This compound is a Class 5.1 oxidising material. (Dangerous)
The compound normally sold for use in pools is measured as 35% strength  (equivalent to 115 volume.)
The official EEC Standard is 100 volume. (30%) strength.
Hydrogen Peroxide of 120 volume (36%) strength can cause dry leaves to catch fire – what it could do to the eyes is frightening ?
Ophthalmic Opticians use the compound when carrying out retinal test conditions as a disinfectant.

Incidentally I am not just another paperback writer – please check me out on Google – Derek Acca Zoominfo.

The company that I run has developed a pool & spa disinfectant that has passed the EEC Biocidal Directive.
The base material which is a Class 8 compound is not a real dangerous material.
It has no smell or taste. It is recyclable (all Halogens are not).
It is compatible with all Halogens and can be used with most chemical generating gadgets.
It is a boon to Asthmatic & allergy sufferers.
It is no where near as corrosive as chlorine in indoor applications.

Surex 002 Oxy-Sure has been successfully used without any mishap in private pools & spas, clubs and County Council School pools

Should you wish further information please call us.

Surex – Voxsan

The oldest name in swimming pool & spa chemistry in Europe.

The Water Wizards.

 
Surex 002 – Licensed to kill.

Surex International Ltd, Unit 5 Airport Trading Estate,
Biggin Hill, Kent. TN16 3BW

Tel:  01959 575000 / 576000  Fax: 01959 571000 
Web: www.surex.co.uk   Email: info@surex.co.uk

TECHNICAL CHEMICAL INFORMATION PAPER  REF: TCI/PR – 11/08

Haloforms cover a range of chemicals such as, Chlorine, Bromine, and Fluoride amongst others, that will react with substances that naturally occur in Swimming Pool & Spa bathing waters that with the right pre cursors produce Trihalomethanes (THMS) & Organo Halides.

These substances are produced when one or more of the Hydrogen Atoms in the Hydrocarbon is substituted by either Chlorine or Bromine.

Almost without exception all Haloforms are:

(A)       Carcinogenic  -           Cancer forming

(B)       Mutagenic      -           Capable of causing mutations in humans

(C)       Teratogenic    -          Capable of causing malformations in newly born 
                                           children

Carcinogenic problems are increased further with the use of Bromine.

Trihalomethanes are absorbed in outdoor bathing applications both through the skin & through the skin & respiratory system in indoor applications.

In the right conditions they are basically poisonous – therefore ‘TOXIC’.

They are the next ‘ASBESTOSIS’.

Surex 002 Oxy-Sure & 002 Oxy-Pure are not affected or associated chemically or biologically with this imposing salient under estimated deliberation.

These comments are purely for future appreciation & understanding.

Please remember where you got them from…………………

Surex – Voxsan  -  The Water Wizards.

Derek Acca  BSc. F.I.S.P.E.

Technical Director

Surex International Ltd

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT INFORMATION PAPER  Ref: TEIP2/PR-05/09

The installation & use of non electrical ‘rare’ earth magnetic water conditioner.

Should you install a magnetic conditioner you will experience the following benefits and its effects when passed through water flow lines – they are manifold.

1.         The unit uses ‘rare earth’ magnets that are effective over many, 
            many years.

2.         It stabilises both the pH and Total Alkalinity of water.

3.         It removes Calcium Carbonate (CH2O3CA) (chalk, limestone, scale.)

            reducing water hardness build up particularly in heated applications.

4.         The Wizard will aid with the reduction of chemical consumption.

5.         It enhances the efforts of water disinfection.

6.         Water surface friction is reduced helping with the removal of 
            ‘scum-lines’.

7.         Water clarity improves assisting flocculation procedures.

8.         It assists in the removal of mineral stains and surface ‘pitting’ in 
            concrete water filled vessels.

9.         Given in the case of Legionnaires disease the Wizard removes 50% of the 
            nutriment which is algae and scale.

10.       The Wizard prevents ‘blanket weed’ from sticking to Koi pond surfaces 
            and prevents scale building up in pond UV units.

11.        In the case of galvanised tubing lines where water flows to injection 
            moulding heat exchangers the Wizard over a period of time removes 
            Calcium Carbonate build up which lowers temperatures saving plastic
            compound costs, cutting down ‘sworf’ and producing better mouldings.

12.       It can be used in chillers and some air conditioning conditions.

13.       The Wizard is used in swimming pool applications preventing the build 
            up of scale in heaters, on vinyl linings, fibre glass, tiled surfaces 
            and painted pools.

14.       Passing water through the magnets in the Wizard will increase yields in 
            livestock such as cows that give a better quality milk, the same 
            reasoning works in other live stock operations, crop farming, vegetable
            and fruit growing operations.

           These factors are well recorded.

15.       The Water Wizard will operate in both cold and hot waters.

The Water Wizard is a Surex International Ltd trade mark product and another ecological and environment and energy saving device.

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT INFORMATION PAPER  TEIP1/PR -03/09

Sand filters should be ‘back-washed’ to waste to dispose of debris taken out from a filter in its general working action, or debris collected from the pool vacuum heads or automatic floor cleaning gadgets that function via a filter unit.

Sand filters should be back-washed for a minimum of 5 minutes every 10 to 21 days in lightly used pools and for 5 minutes every 7 days in heavily used pools in domestic applications.

Commercial pools have different parameters & procedures.

A filter drum will hold the following approximate volume of sand:

15-16” size will hold 0.13m² (1.40sqft) with 1½” flow lines. Use 2 x 25kg of 16/30 grade of filter sand.

18-19” size will hold 0.17m² (1.85sqft) with 1½” flow lines. Use 3 x 25kg of 16/30 grade of filter sand.

23/25” size will hold 0.33m² (3.17sqft) with 1½” flow lines. Use 4 x 25kg of 16/30 grade of filter sand and 1 x 25kg of gravel (3-6 or 5-10mm).

30” size will hold 0.46m² (4.9sqft) with 2” flow lines.   Use 6 x 25kg of 16/30 grade of filter sand  and 2 x 25kg of gravel (3-6 or 5-10mm).

Sand filters in Koi pond applications should use 8-16 grade of filter sand.

Top mount valves are more practical than side mount. Because they take up less plumbing space and give more even pressure when in use.

How to use your multiport when back-washing is required.

Think of your valve face as a clock.

1.         First turn off your pool pump.

2.         At 12 o’clock you are in FILTER position (normal running).

            Push valve handle right down to bottom –
            This protects the valve sealing gasket against movement.

3.         Turn your valve to 6 o’clock – BACKWASH position.

4.         Turn on your pool pump to ‘back-wash’ as already advised.

5.         Turn off your pool pump.

6.         Select RECIRCULATION (20 to 8).

7.         Turn on your pool pump for some 30 seconds only. –  
            You are only cleaning the valve body no need to waste water.

8.         Turn off your pump and put valve back to 12 o’clock (FILTER position).

            Now leave valve off for some 15 minutes to allow the sand to settle. 
            This process is called ‘Sedimentation’.

            The heavier gravel falls first, the sand follows.
            Useful in 24” & 30” filter drums.

9.         The RINSE position (10 to 10) is useful to blow out any air
            in the filter drum without lose of water.

10.       WASTE (10 past 12). Here you can vacuum to waste to either drain the 
            pool or clean any unwanted effluent.

11.       CLOSED is used during ‘Winterisation’ coverage or for use 
            in ‘flooded suction’ applications.

Tips

Disregard ‘sight glass’ – purely shows water is flowing.

Check that your valve pressure gauge is working correctly.

Use glycerine filled gauges. They are far longer lasting.

Check spider gasket inside valve body, & top ‘o’ ring once a year.

If your valve top assembly is well worn it is cheaper in time to fit a new top assembly only.

Always use PTFE tape when plumbing in internally threaded valve ports. Do not glue.

Providing you backwash regularly & chemicalise properly your filter sand will last for many years.

With increasing concerns covering the use of Halogens (Chlorine, Bromine & Fluoride) being applied in both domestic & commercial pool & spas more attention is slowly being paid to ‘Non Chlorine’ donors.

Surex International have been leaders in the use of ‘new age’ per-oxygen chemistry from the late 1980’s and have been instrumental in their development in both granular and tablet form which have been proven to be as effective as Chlorine and generally less expensive.

Surex 002 Oxy-sure™ and Surex 002 Oxy-pure™ are both inorganic materials, safe to use, effective with both ecological and environmental qualities beneficial to asthmatics, dermatitis and other allergy suffers.

Equally the compounds are far less aggressive than Chlorine based materials, compatible and far more comfortable to bathe in.

Surex 002 has certain chemical control parameters that should be noted.

Chlorine (Cl2)

Range of compound affectivity 7.4 – 7.8 pH. If over 8 mg/lt/ppm you will loose 25% of your donor.

Bromine (Br)

Range of compound affectivity 5 to 9 pH. If over 9 mg/lt/ppm you will loose 25% of your donor.

(Remember Bromine is 50% less effective than Chlorine.)

Surex 002

Range of compound affectivity 2 to 13.5 pH with no loss of oxidising potential.

The versatility of Surex 002

The material is odourless in both water and the atmosphere.

The material will not bleach or burn the grass.

The material can be recycled – Chlorine, Bromine & Fluoride cannot.

The water ways of the UK are being polluted by Halogens when dumped down the drain.

They affect local water treatment plants, riverbeds, reed beds, fishery organisations – they add more grief to further effluent by some of the 20 odd water authorities monitored by Water UK where some have recorded heavy penalties for the abuse of their actions.

Surex 002 will not effect the Ecology or the Environment when put ‘down the drain’.

Surex International have recycled Surex 002 some 2 to 3 times.

Surex 002 will not bleach bathing costumes, swimmers will not experience ‘split ends’ to their hair.

Surex 002 has little if any effect on the skin, eyes and lungs.

The material is far, far less aggressive on pool and spa equipment generally.

With the application of Surex 002 in hard water areas very little if any pool acid (Sodium Bisulphate) is used with the application of Surex 002 into pool and spa waters, this saves on chemical additive costs.

You can swim within two hours.

Chlorine can be used in conjunction with Surex 002 as a ‘shock’ dose but you cannot swim comfortably for a minimum of 1 to 2 days.

Surex International use Surex 002 to ‘burn’ out combine chlorine levels if out of line in leisure clubs, schools etc allowing swimmers to swim comfortably within 1 to 2 hours with out discomfort.

Surex International use Surex 002 in canine convalescence indoor pools, greyhound training pools & equestrian exercise pools, it can be applied to certain fish and aquatic animal applications.

Surex 002 can be used in hydrotherapy & in jetted and whirl pool house hold baths.

Surex 002 versatility is extended with its support as a back up to salt water generators, ionic purifiers, ozone generators in spas and pools, ultra violet (UV) units, Bromine and Chlorine tablets feeders.

Surex 002 is also used with Redox controllers where Surex International have been using its own in house Chemtrol System™ for some 15 years in both domestic and commercially run pools.

Surex International have formulated its own Ecological and Environmentally additive which is Sure 002 Plus™ which can be added to sand filters to slowly buffer any low Total Alkalinity (T.A.) problems in acid conditions over a period of 2 to 3 months to support the Surex 002 programme.

Surex are leaders in the manufacture & supply of water treatment chemicals & products covering the ecology which include gel block technology such as LeBloc™ that incorporates a phosphate remover,

TLC ™ cleaning Paste that covers multiple applications, as does Aquastik™ and our most versatile product – The Water Wizard™ magnetic conditioner – a rare earth non electrical unit that lasts forever.

Because Surex International’s experience in chemical applications we suggest that spa owners try the use of Surex Sauna Silk, a non oil based Eucalyptus essence, which added to spa waters at a low level volume clears bronchial tracts to the lungs.

It is compatible with Surex 002 it has no effect on the environment, non hazardous and can create a ‘state of karma’.

Another relief for asthmatics.

You can’t do that with Chlorine.

Whilst covering the issue of per-oxygen’s it should be noted that Hydrogen Peroxide which is inorganic is sold into the pool & spa industry & approved by BISTHA is a class 5.1 oxidising material.

Under present EEC (BPD) Hydrogen Peroxide should not exceed 100 volume (30%) whilst at 135 volume (35%) it is dangerous to handle and a danger if in contact with the eyes.

Non Chlorine chemical additives.

It should be noted that there are alternative chemical systems on the market that are classed as Non Chlorine.

Surex International have over the years seen them come & seen them go therefore respectfully suggest that pool & spa owners check out their validity before purchasing.

Alternative compounds.

Copper Sulphate crystals & liquid.

Toxic to humans, animals & fish.

Copper Sulphate Pentahydrate liquid (CUSo4 5H20)

Classed as poisonous.

Even the above still require a level of Chlorine in their makeup to be a safe guard.

Incidentally veterinary canine users advise the use of Chlorine in indoor doggy convalescence ‘pools’. Dogs have lungs and can take in Trihalomethanes (THMS) apart from irritating their eyes and affecting their coats.

Trihalomethanes are toxic.

Swimmers can take THMS in both indoor & outdoor pools through their skin.

Again on technical academic interest Surex 002 Oxy-Sure™ & Surex 002 Oxy-Pure™ will within the Biocidal Directive coverage will pass 7 out of 7 Chlorine only achieves only 3½ – 4 passes.

Asthmatics are affected by Chlorine with indoor applications particularly life guards, plant operators in badly ventilated indoor areas.

The first ½ metre over the pool surface area cannot be suitably vented causes problems to indoor bathers particularly with pre-natal mother and unborn child swimmers as advocated by the government.

Nitrogen Trichloride is difficult to control and if not suitably controlled Trihalomethanes (THMS) will appear.

Surex 002 cannot produce Trihalomethanes or the associated problems of Nitrogen Trichloride.

Further technical papers are freely available see website www.surex.co.uk or email info@surex.co.uk

The oldest Pool & Spa chemical companies within the EEC

The Water Wizards™

Chlorine has been linked to childhood asthma in a new study published in Ireland. the research was carried out by Cork Maternity Hospital  and involved a group of 121 schoolboys aged six to 12 years from Cork City.

More than a quarter of the boys has experienced wheezing and one in 10 had the problem in the previous 12 months.

Printed by the Pool & Spa Industry 2009