Drinking Water Distribution
Course Pack: Water Quality and Corrosion Control
Alkalinity and Some Testing
Course Description
A practical module covering alkalinity, hardness, and their roles in system
stability. Operators learn how to perform field testing, interpret results, understand scaling
tendencies, and incorporate findings into distribution-system adjustments.
Learning Objectives
1) Explain the role of alkalinity and hardness in corrosion
2) Use field equipment for alkalinity/hardness testing
3) Interpret calcium hardness effects on system scaling
4) Relate alkalinity balance to corrosion indexes
5) Apply test results to distribution system adjustments
Agenda
1) Overview of alkalinity and hardness and their roles in system stability
2) Demonstration and interpretation of calcium hardness testing
3) Corrosion control conclusions and links to operational decisions
4) Equipment selection, maintenance, and proper handling of test tools
5) Using test results to understand system behavior through applied examples
Target audience
Operators responsible for distribution system water quality
Level
II, III
Learning material and method
Online on-demand
Assessment
Knowledge check and quiz (80% correct and above)
Instructor
Mike Harrington