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Low Conductivity Water (LCW) Connection

Training

Environmental Energy Technologies DivisionSafety Topic

January 9, 2012

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Background• Some EETD lab area equipment is

connected to the building Low Conductivity Water (LCW) system

• The LCW is under pressure and flows continuously

• Hoses and fittings connected to the LCW can fail or come loose

• Water leaks from the LCW can result in significant floods to the lab area and even entire buildings

• Water floods disrupt lab operations, damage equipment, and result in very significant cleanup costs

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Prevent Water Floods!• Water leaks from equipment can

occur during off hours or during periods when the lab area is not occupied

• Significant volumes of water can be released

• Water can cause mold and mildew

• It is important that all LCW hoses and connections are properly installed and regularly checked to prevent floods

• YOU play a role in preventing water floods!

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Tubing and Hoses• Use tubing of the proper diameter

– Tubing that is too small will not connect adequately with barbed fittings

– Tubing that is too large will not adequately secure around the barbed fitting

• Use tubing of adequate thickness and strength– LCW system pressure is 150 psi– Thin tubing may rupture or split

• Do not use aged, cracked, or brittle tubing!

• Tubing should be cut with clean straight edges

• LCW is operated near room temperature. Temperature increases through the equipment should not cause tubing to melt. Check ratings!

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Fittings• Use the proper size fittings for the

diameter tubing being used• Use all fitting components. This

includes any ferrules• Press tubing or hose all the way

into the fitting• Tighten to secure fitting. Use

wrench, not just hand tight• Test to make sure fitting is secure!• Don’t rush or become careless • Always follow manufacturer

specifications

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Valves• The LCW is a closed loop system• There are “FEED” (supply) and “RETURN” valves

associated with the LCW connections• When circulating water through equipment, DO

NOT close the RETURN valve!• If the return valve is closed, system pressure will

build-up and possibly cause tubing to rupture or fittings to fail

• Always ensure LCW valves are clearly identified

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Inspections and Reporting• Always check connections for leaks

and make sure equipment is operating properly on a daily basis.

• Report all significant leaks (>5 gallons) immediately to the Building Manager, EETD Safety Manager (X8137), and Facilities (X7941)

• Do not allow water to contact electrical connections. Stay off of wet floors!

• Contact information is located on the hazard placards mounted outside each lab

• For emergencies, immediately call X7911 for assistance

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Flood Prevention Video• Facilities has prepared an excellent

video that details proper fitting and hose installation:

“TUBING AND HOSE INSTALLATION AWARENESS”

http://video.google.com/a/?pli=1 - /Play/contentId=5abc504cd99425a9