JP2001232364A - Water treating device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a water treating device capable of being excellently operated by accurately recognizing the state of scales depositing on an electrode in an electrolytic cell and the service life of the electrode. SOLUTION: The water treating device 1 is provided with an electrolytic cell 14 having electrodes 41 and 42. An electric current is applied to the electrodes 41 and 42 to electrolytically sterilize the water to be treated supplied to the cell 14. An ammeter 44 for detecting the value of the current flowing through the electrodes 41 and 42 and a conductivity sensor 13 for measuring the electric conductivity of the water to be treated are furnished. The state of scales depositing on the electrodes 41 and 42 and the service life of the electrodes are judged based on the outputs of the ammeter 42 and conductivity sensor 13.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a wide range of water tanks, such as pools and bath tubs, and small water tanks such as water tubs placed on the rooftops of buildings and general household tubs.
The present invention relates to a novel water treatment apparatus capable of sterilizing treated water stored in various water tanks.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art For example, in order to maintain the water quality of a pool installed indoors and outdoors, or a bathtub in a ryokan or a public bath, so-called khaki (bleach powder, highly bleached powder) or sodium hypochlorite is regularly used. (NaClO)
It is necessary to put in an aqueous solution and sterilize.

In the past, however, this work was manually performed by employees of pools and baths, and the work was carried out with extreme care because aqueous solutions of khaki and sodium hypochlorite were irritating. For example, there is a problem that a great deal of labor is required for processing. In addition, since calcium is a solid powder, it takes a long time after dissolving to make the concentration uniform, and there is also a problem that the pool or bathtub cannot be used during that time.

[0004] Further, in the case of a water supply tank arranged on the roof of a building or a general household bath, at present, the sterilization treatment depends on chlorine contained in tap water. In such a case, water quality may be deteriorated due to propagation of algae inside. In addition, in the case of a general home tub, it seems that there is usually no problem in terms of water quality because the water is changed approximately every one to two days, but the inside of the boiler connected to the tub cannot be cleaned frequently. Therefore, germs and fungi easily propagate, and there is a concern that the water quality may deteriorate.

[0005]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, the applicant of the present application
The inventor of the present invention has invented a water treatment apparatus for guiding the water to be treated stored in each of the water tanks as described above to an electrolytic tank and sterilizing the water by an electrochemical reaction. In the water treatment apparatus according to the present invention, the water to be treated is supplied to the electrolytic cell having the electrodes, and the water to be treated is subjected to an electrochemical reaction (so-called electrolysis). Hypochlorite ions, chlorine gas, HClO and the like are generated by the applied electrochemical reaction, and are dissolved in the water to be treated, whereby the water to be treated is sterilized.

[0006] As described above, in a water treatment apparatus that sterilizes by an electrochemical reaction using an electrolytic cell, (1) the condition of the scale attached to the electrode, It is necessary to accurately grasp the electrode life, (2) it is necessary to control the residual chlorine concentration of the water treated by the electrochemical reaction to a desired concentration, and (3) the electrochemical reaction in the electrolytic cell. There is a problem that the water treatment must be performed safely, and it is necessary to provide a water treatment apparatus having a configuration that solves these problems.

[0007] The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems,
An object of the present invention is to provide a novel water treatment device that can perform sterilization treatment safely and well. More specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide a novel water treatment device utilizing an electrochemical reaction, which has solved the problems (1) to (3).

[0008]

The invention according to claim 1 is provided with an electrolytic cell having an electrode, and sterilizes the water to be supplied to the electrolytic cell by applying an electric current to the electrolytic cell by an electrochemical reaction. In a water treatment apparatus, a current value detecting means for detecting a current value flowing through an electrode, a conductivity measuring means for measuring an electric conductivity of water to be treated, and a current value detecting means and an output of the conductivity measuring means are used. And a scale adhesion determining means for determining how the scale is attached to the electrode.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided the water treatment apparatus according to the first aspect, further comprising a life determining means for determining the life of the electrode based on the outputs of the current value detecting means and the conductivity measuring means. It is a water treatment apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. The invention according to claim 3 introduces an electrolytic tank that sterilizes the water to be treated by an electrochemical reaction, and introduces the water to be treated into the electrolytic tank,
And a channel for discharging the water sterilized in the electrolytic cell, a residual chlorine sensor for measuring the residual chlorine concentration of the water to be treated, a means for setting the residual chlorine concentration, and a measurement value of the residual chlorine sensor set by the setting means. Control means for controlling the amount of electricity supplied to the electrolytic cell so that the residual chlorine concentration is maintained.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water treatment apparatus provided with an electrolytic cell having an electrode, wherein the water to be treated supplied to the electrolytic cell is sterilized by an electrochemical reaction by energizing the electrode. A water treatment apparatus, comprising: a temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of the water; and means for controlling energization of the electrodes based on the temperature detected by the temperature detecting means.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the water treatment apparatus according to the fourth aspect, further comprising means for controlling a supply amount of the water to be treated to the electrolytic cell based on the temperature detected by the temperature detecting means. It is a water treatment apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. Claim 6
The described invention provides a water treatment apparatus that includes an electrolytic cell having an electrode, and sterilizes water to be treated supplied to the electrolytic cell by energizing the electrode by an electrochemical reaction. Based on the detection signal of the outflow flow rate detecting means,
Means for controlling the amount of electricity supplied to the electrodes.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water treatment apparatus comprising an electrolytic cell having an electrode, wherein the water to be treated supplied to the electrolytic cell is sterilized by an electrochemical reaction by supplying electricity to the electrode. Outflow flow rate detection means for detecting the flow rate of sterilized water to be supplied, supply flow rate control means for controlling the supply flow rate of the water to be treated to the electrolytic cell, and supply flow rate control based on the detection signal of the outflow flow rate detection means A water treatment apparatus characterized in that a supply amount of water to be treated to an electrolytic cell is controlled by means.

An eighth aspect of the present invention provides an electrolytic cell having an electrode for sterilizing the water to be treated supplied by energizing the electrode by an electrochemical reaction, and a gas generated at the time of the electrochemical reaction in the electrolytic cell with water. In a water treatment apparatus having a gas-liquid separation tank for separating from a gas-liquid separation tank, a hydrogen concentration detection unit provided in the gas-liquid separation tank, and a conduction amount control unit for controlling conduction to an electrode based on a signal from the hydrogen concentration detection unit And a water treatment apparatus comprising:

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electrolytic cell having an electrode, which sterilizes water to be treated supplied by energizing the electrode by an electrochemical reaction, and a gas generated at the time of the electrochemical reaction in the electrolytic cell. A water treatment apparatus having a gas-liquid separation tank for separating gas from the gas-liquid separation tank, an exhaust unit for forcibly exhausting the gas separated in the gas-liquid separation tank, a unit for detecting an exhaust state of the exhaust unit, and a detection signal of the detection unit. hand,
Means for controlling the amount of electricity supplied to the electrodes.

According to the first and second aspects, it is possible to accurately determine the amount of scale attached to the electrode provided in the electrolytic cell and the life of the electrode. I mean,
Generally, when a constant DC voltage is applied between the electrodes, the value of the current flowing between the electrodes is proportional to the conductivity σ of the solution supplied to the electrolytic cell. Therefore, a relationship of I = Kσ is established between the conductivity σ and the current I flowing between the electrodes. here,
K is a proportionality constant.

The proportional constant K always shows the same value unless there is a change in the electrodes. However, in practice, if an electrochemical reaction is continued by passing a current through the electrode, the electrode surface will be covered with scale, etc., the electrode will be corroded, and the catalyst on the electrode surface will be gradually worn away. The value of K becomes small. Therefore, by constantly calculating the value of K by calculation, the degree of scale adhesion to the electrode and the electrode life can be determined.

According to the first and second aspects of the present invention, the degree of adhesion of the scale to the electrode and / or the life of the electrode is determined based on the above principle. Further, in the configuration of claim 1, since the amount of the scale attached to the electrode can be detected as a value proportional to the decrease in the current value, the apparatus is provided with a cleaning step of introducing a scale removing agent such as acetic acid, thereby enabling automatic electrode cleaning. In addition, wear due to abnormal corrosion of the electrode can be prevented.

In the configuration of claim 3, when the user sets the residual chlorine concentration, for example, the residual chlorine concentration of the water to be treated is automatically controlled so as to become the set concentration. If the residual chlorine concentration of the water to be treated can be freely set by the user to an arbitrary concentration, the residual chlorine concentration of the water to be treated is desired depending on the type of the water tank to which the water treatment apparatus is applied, that is, the intended use. , And can be applied to various water tanks.

According to the configuration of the fourth aspect, safe and optimal sterilization can be performed within the heat-resistant temperature range of the electrolytic cell and the pipe (water channel). When an electric current is supplied to the electrode of the electrolytic cell to perform an electrochemical reaction on the water to be treated, if the supply current increases abnormally or if the inflow of the water to be treated supplied to the electrolytic cell decreases abnormally, However, there is a possibility that the temperature of the water in the electrolytic cell rises abnormally. In particular, when the electrolytic cell and the piping are made of a resin-based material such as PVC, the heat-resistant temperature is not high, so that it is necessary to take measures.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the temperature is always detected by the temperature detecting means, and when the temperature rises, the power supply to the electrodes is reduced or stopped, so that the temperature can be kept within a safe temperature range. The water to be treated can be subjected to an electrochemical reaction. In the configuration of claim 5, in addition to the function of claim 4, when the detected temperature of the temperature detecting means is increased, the supply amount of the water to be treated to the electrolytic cell is increased, and the water to be treated is And the rise of the temperature of the water to be treated in the electrolytic cell can be suppressed.

According to the configuration of claim 6, the electrolytic cell can determine whether or not a pump or the like provided at the outlet side for discharging treated water has an abnormality. When the amount of outflow of water is small, the power supply to the electrodes is suppressed. In some cases, the power supply to the electrodes is stopped. Therefore, the water treatment device can be safely operated. In the configuration of claim 7, when a pump or the like that pumps water out of the electrolytic cell breaks down, the supply amount of the water to be treated supplied to the electrolytic cell is limited or stopped. Ascent can be prevented.

As described above, according to the fourth to seventh aspects,
While detecting the temperature rise of water in the electrolytic cell and the flow rate of water flowing out of the electrolytic cell, it is possible to perform an electrochemical reaction on the water to be treated within a safe temperature range and within a safe water pressure range. it can. According to the configuration of the eighth and ninth aspects, in an apparatus in which a gas-liquid separation tank is provided in addition to an electrolytic cell, gas generated during an electrochemical reaction separated in the gas-liquid separation tank can be safely treated.

In particular, in the configuration of claim 8, when the concentration of hydrogen in the separated gas becomes high due to some abnormality in the gas-liquid separation tank, the power supply to the electrodes is suppressed or stopped. There is no danger of ignition of hydrogen gas. In the configuration according to the ninth aspect, when the forced evacuation means of the gas-liquid separation tank breaks down, the power supply to the electrodes is stopped.

The gas-liquid separation tank according to claims 8 and 9 may be configured as a separate tank from the electrolytic cell, or may be incorporated in a part of the electrolytic cell.

[0025]

Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings. FIG.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure which shows the structure which integrated the water treatment apparatus 1 concerning one Embodiment of this invention in the large water tank 2 called a pool.

The water tank 2 is provided with a main circulation path 20 for circulating the water to be treated W stored therein. In the main circulation path 20, a circulation pump 21, a filter 22 for sand filtration, and a heat exchanger 23 for heating the water to be treated are arranged. The water W to be treated in the water tank 2 is 1
As shown by the dashed line, the main circulation path 20 is circulated. The water treatment apparatus 1 according to this embodiment includes a water channel 10 that branches off from a branch point J1 on the downstream side of the filter 22, takes in water, and joins the treated water to a branch point J2 on the downstream side of the heat exchanger 23. Having. Waterway 1 branched from junction J1
0 is a regulating valve B1, a filter 11 for filtration, an ion exchange resin 12, a conductivity sensor 13, a solenoid valve B2, an electrolytic cell 14, a solenoid valve B3, a flow meter 15, a regulating valve B4, a circulation valve, for adjusting a flow rate. The pump 16, the flow meter 17, the check valve B5, and the regulating valves B6 and B7 are interposed, and join the branch point J2.

Further, a branch point J3 is provided in the water channel 10 between the regulating valve B1 and the filter 11, and a water diversion channel 30 extends from the branch point J3. A regulating valve B8 and a residual chlorine concentration sensor 31 are interposed in the water channel 30. The water that has passed through the residual chlorine concentration sensor 31 is guided to a drain. The electrolytic cell 14 is provided with a positive electrode set 41 and a negative electrode set 42. Each of the electrode sets 41 and 42 is provided with a plurality of electrode plates. Each electrode plate is
For example, gold (Au), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), platinum-
It is preferable that a thin film of a noble metal such as iridium (Pt-Ir) is coated by a plating method or a baking treatment.

The positive electrode set 41 is connected to the positive potential of the power supply voltage 43, and the negative electrode set 42 is connected to the negative potential of the power supply voltage 43. An ammeter 4 is provided in the connection path between the power supply voltage 43 and the positive electrode set 41.
4 has been inserted. Therefore, from the power supply voltage 43, the electrode set 4
The current flowing to 1, 42 can be measured by an ammeter 44.

The electrolytic cell 14 is provided with a charging port 45 for supplying a chemical for maintenance and the like, and a drain port 46 for discharging the solution in the electrolytic cell 14. One end of the supply path 47 is connected to the input port 45, and the supply path 4
The other end of 7 is immersed in an acetic acid solution tank 48. A constant flow pump 49 and a solenoid valve B9 are interposed in the supply path 47. On the other hand, a drain pipe 50 provided with a solenoid valve B10 is connected to the drain port 46.

The electrolytic cell 14 is also provided with a thermistor 40 as temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of the cell. The water channel 10 on the outlet side of the electrolytic cell 14 is
Is provided with a pressure gauge 51 for measuring the pressure of water flowing out of the apparatus. Further, the circulation pump 16 and the flow meter 17
The waterway 10 between the two is provided with a branch point J4, and a supply path 52 is connected to the branch point J4. Supply path 52
Is connected to the inside of a NaClO tank 53,
The NaClO in the I / O tank 53 is pumped out by the constant flow rate pump 54 and passes through the supply path 52 from the branch point J4 to the water path 1.
0 and flows to the branch point J2 side.

The operation of the water treatment apparatus 1 having the above configuration is as follows. The water in the water tank 2 is pumped out by the circulation pump 21,
Organic matter is removed by the filter 22 by sand filtration. Then, at a branch point J1, the water is separated into water that is returned to the water tank 2 through the heat exchanger 23 and water that flows into the water treatment device 1.
The flow rate of the water flowing into the water treatment device 1 is adjusted by the adjusting valve B1, and organic matter is removed by the filter 11,
After ions such as calcium and magnesium are removed by the ion exchange resin 12, the conductivity sensor 13 and the solenoid valve B
2 to the electrolytic cell 14. Conductivity sensor 13
Then, the electrical conductivity, which is the electrical conductivity of the water to be treated, supplied to the electrolytic cell 14 is measured.

A part of the water flowing into the water channel 10 flows from the branch point J3 to the water distribution channel 30, and is supplied to the residual chlorine concentration sensor 31 while its flow rate is adjusted by the adjusting valve B8. The residual chlorine concentration sensor 31 measures the residual chlorine concentration of the water to be treated. The water after passing through the residual chlorine concentration sensor 31 is discharged to a drain. Residual chlorine concentration sensor 31
The reason why the above-mentioned water channel is a water channel is that the allowable flow rate of the residual chlorine concentration sensor 31 is extremely small. Therefore, the amount of water drained to the drain is also extremely small.

In the electrolytic cell 14, the positive electrode set 41 and
DC current flows between the negative electrode set 42
Performs electrolysis. In electrolysis, the following
Is generated by this reaction
Hypochlorite ion (ClO^-), Chlorine gas, HClO
Active oxygen generated for a very short time during the reaction process
(O_Two ^-), The water to be treated is sterilized.

(Anode side) 4H ₂ O-4e ⁻ → 4H ⁺ + O ₂ ↑ + 2H ₂ O 2Cl ⁻ → Cl ₂ + 2e ^- H ₂ O + Cl ₂ {HClO + H ⁺ + Cl ⁻ (Cathode side) 4H ₂ O + 4e ⁻ → 2H ₂ } + 4OH ⁻ (anode side + cathode side) H ⁺ + OH ⁻ → H ₂ O Water sterilized in the electrolytic bath 14 is pumped out by a circulation pump 16. That is, the water sterilized in the electrolytic cell 14 flows through the water passage 10 via the solenoid valve B3, the flow meter 15, the regulating valve B4, and the circulation pump 16, and further, the flow meter 17, the check valve B5, and the regulating valve. The water flows into the main circulation path 22 from the branch point J2 via B6 and B7, and flows into the water tank 2. Thereby, the water in the water tank 2 is sterilized.

Further, in this embodiment, when the sterilization by electrolysis of the electrolytic cell 14 requires a long time for sterilization, the NaClO in the NaClO tank 53 is pumped out by the constant flow rate pump 54 and enters the water channel 10. It is designed to flow in. The feature of this embodiment is that a good sterilization process can be performed by controlling the water treatment apparatus 1 having the above configuration by a control unit constituted by a microcomputer or the like described below. is there.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the water treatment apparatus 1 shown in FIG. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the water treatment apparatus 1 includes a control unit 60 including a microcomputer and the like. The control unit 60 receives detection signals from various sensors provided in the water treatment apparatus 1 described with reference to FIG. That is, the conductivity sensor 13, the residual chlorine concentration sensor 31, the thermistor 4
0, ammeter 44, flowmeters 15, 17 and pressure gauge 51
Is supplied to the control unit 60. The control unit 60 controls the operation of the water treatment apparatus 1 according to a predetermined operation program in accordance with these provided detection signals. Specifically, the control of the solenoid valves B2, B3, B9, B10, the constant flow pumps 49, 54, the circulation pump 16 and the power supply voltage 43 is performed. In this embodiment, the example in which the water treatment apparatus 1 has four solenoid valves has been described.
1, B4, B6, B7, and B8 may be appropriately replaced with solenoid valves. Further, a valve may be inserted into the water passage 10 or the supply passage 52 as necessary.

Further, a signal from the setting unit 61 is given to the control unit 60. The setting unit 61 has an operation panel that can be operated by a manager of the water treatment apparatus 1 and the like, and a desired operation state can be set by the operation panel. For example, aquarium 2
The target value of the residual chlorine concentration can be set. Further, in the case of the gas-liquid separation type water treatment apparatus 100 as shown in FIG. 6 described later, as indicated by a dashed line, the float switch 71 and the hydrogen gas sensor 7
3 and a detection signal of the ventilation fan ammeter 74a.
Further, the control unit 60 controls operations of the circulation pump 76 and the ventilation fan 74.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing maintenance control of the electrolytic cell 14 in the control operation performed by the control unit 60. By the control of FIG. 3, the degree of adhesion of the scale to the electrode sets 41 and 42 provided in the electrolytic cell 14 and the life of the electrode sets 41 and 42 are determined, and the attached scale is automatically washed. This will be specifically described according to the flowchart of FIG. The control unit 60 is provided with a memory area, and has three proportional constants K ₀ , Kx and K
Can be set. Where K ₀ is electrode set 4
It is an initial proportional constant of 1, 42, and is a value indicating the maximum capacity of the electrode sets 41, 42. Kx is a proportionality constant used for determining whether or not to wash the electrode sets 41 and 42 with acetic acid. K is a proportionality constant calculated from the current value and the conductivity of the current flowing through the electrode sets 41 and 42.

In the control operation, first, K ₀ , Kx and K
Are initialized to "0" (step S1). Next, a proportional constant K is calculated by calculation (step S2). It is known that when a constant DC voltage is applied between the electrodes, the value of the current flowing between the electrodes is generally proportional to the conductivity σ of the solution existing between the electrodes. Therefore, between the conductivity σ and the current I flowing between the electrodes, I
= Kσ holds. Therefore, in the control unit 60, the ammeter 4
4 and the conductivity σ obtained from the conductivity sensor 13 to calculate a proportional constant K.

Next, it is determined whether or not K ₀ is “0” (step S3). Immediately after the control is started, K ₀ is initialized to “0”, so the process proceeds to step S4, where K calculated in step S2 is set as the proportional constant K ₀ . Next, it is determined whether the proportional constant Kx is "0" (step S5). Immediately after the control is started, Kx is initialized to “0”, so the process proceeds to step S6, and Kx = K is set.

[0041] Then the magnitude of K and 0.2 K ₀ in step S7 is compared. Immediately after the start of the control, K ₀ is K ₀ = K as set in step S4, so the determination in step S7 is denied, the process in step S8 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S9. In step S9, K
And the magnitude of 0.8Kx are compared. Immediately after the start of control, during Kx, Kx is set as set in step S6.
Since = K, the determination in step S9 is denied, the processing in steps S10 and S11 is skipped, and the processing from step S2 is repeated.

As the electrolysis time in the electrolytic cell 14 elapses, scales and the like gradually adhere to the electrodes. Therefore, the value of the current flowing through the electrode sets 41 and 42 gradually changes. Based on this change in the current value, in step S2,
The current proportional constant K is calculated by calculation from the relationship I = Kσ. The calculated K gradually decreases. After processing starts,
Since the determinations in steps S3 and S5 are both negative, the processing in steps S4 and S6 is skipped and the determinations in steps S7 and S9 are made. The proportionality constant K gradually decreases, and eventually the determination of K <0.8Kx in step S9 is affirmed. That is, the current proportional constant K becomes less than 80% of the value of Kx = K set in step S6. In this case, it is determined that the amount of scale attached to the electrode has increased, and the process proceeds to scale cleaning control in steps S10 and S11.

In this control, first, the cleaning proportional constant Kx is cleared to "0" (step S10), and after cleaning, Kx
To be updated. Then, the power supply to the electrode sets 41 and 42 from the power supply voltage 43 is temporarily stopped, and the solenoid valves B2 and
Close B3. Then, the solenoid valve B10 is opened, and the water in the electrolytic cell 14 is drained from the drain port 46. Thereafter, the solenoid valve B10 is closed, the solenoid valve B9 is opened, and the constant flow pump 4 is opened.
9 is operated. As a result, the acetic acid stored in the acetic acid solution tank 48 is supplied to the electrolytic tank 14 through the supply path 47.
When the inside of the electrolytic cell 14 is filled with acetic acid, the constant flow pump 49 is stopped, and the solenoid valve B9 is closed. Then, the scale attached to the electrode sets 41 and 42 is washed by filling the electrolytic bath 14 with acetic acid for about 10 minutes. afterwards,
The electromagnetic valve B10 is opened, and the acetic acid used for cleaning is drained. Then, the solenoid valve B10 is closed, and the solenoid valves B2, B
3 is opened to complete the scale cleaning control (step S1).
1). Then, the process returns to step S2.

When the scale cleaning process is performed once, the proportional constant Kx has been cleared to "0", so that the proportional constant K calculated in step S2 after the scale cleaning is reset as the acetic acid cleaning proportional constant ( Step S5, S
6). That is, each time the acetic acid cleaning is completed, the proportional constant Kx
Is updated. Therefore, immediately after Kx is updated and set, the determination in step S9 is denied.
Steps S10 and S11 are skipped, and the processing from step S2 is repeated. When the electrolysis in the electrolytic cell 14 is further continued, the judgment in step S9 is eventually affirmed, and at that time, acetic acid cleaning is performed again.

As described above, the acetic acid cleaning is performed at regular intervals, so that the scale attached to the electrode assembly is automatically cleaned, and the electrolysis of the electrolytic cell 14 can be performed satisfactorily for a long time. Eventually, the initial proportional constant K set in step S4
₀ will be reduced to 20% or less of the current proportionality constant K. In this case, it is determined that the electrode surface catalyst has been consumed and the electrode has been corroded, and a lamp indicating that the electrode life has expired is turned on (step S8). The manager of the water treatment device 1
Based on the lighting of the lamp, the electrode sets 41 and 42 of the electrolytic cell 14 are replaced.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the electrolysis control in the electrolytic cell 14 of the water treatment apparatus 1. FIG.
In the flowchart, the control is performed so that the residual chlorine concentration of the water to be treated becomes the concentration set by the setting unit 61 (see FIG. 2). Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, control unit 60 reads residual chlorine concentration X ₀ set by setting unit 61 (step S21). Further, the detection signal X detected by the residual chlorine concentration sensor 31, that is, the current residual chlorine concentration X is read (step S22). The magnitude of the X and X ₀ are compared (step S23).

If the current detected residual chlorine concentration X is equal to or less than the set residual chlorine concentration X ₀ , the amount of electrolysis required to bring the residual chlorine concentration of the water to be treated to the set residual chlorine concentration is calculated. , A provisional power supply amount W ₀ to be supplied to the electrode sets 41 and 42 and a provisional flow rate Q ₀ of water flowing into the electrolytic cell 14 in order to obtain the amount of electrolysis are set (step S24). Thereafter, the safety subroutine step S
At 26, the provisional power supply amount W ₀ and the provisional flow rate Q ₀ are adjusted, and the amount of power to be supplied to the electrode sets 41 and 42 and the flow rate of the water flowing into the electrolytic cell 14 are actually determined. Is performed (step S27). Output control refers to power supply voltage 4
3. Control of the electromagnetic valves B2 and B3, the circulation pump 16, and the like.

In step S23, when the detected residual chlorine concentration X is higher than the set residual chlorine concentration X ₀ , the electrolysis in the electrolytic cell 14 is not necessary, so The power supply amount W ₀ to the power supply 42 is “0%”. At this time, in order to secure a stable water pressure and flow rate to the residual chlorine concentration sensor 31, the amount of the water to be treated from the branch point J1 to the water channel 10 is set to the maximum value that can be flowed into the water treatment apparatus 1. The flow rate is set to about 20% of the flow rate, for example, 10 liters / minute in this embodiment (step S25).

With the above control, the residual chlorine concentration in the water tank 2 can be set to the desired concentration set by the setting unit 61, and the electrolysis in the electrolytic cell 14 necessary for that can be safely performed. Next, the specific contents of the safety subroutine in step S26 will be described.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the specific contents of the safety subroutine. In the safety subroutine,
First, the temperature T detected by the thermistor 40 provided in the electrolytic cell 14 is read by the control unit 60 (Step P1). Then, it is determined whether or not the temperature T is 50 ° C. or higher (step P2). When the electrolysis is performed in the electrolytic cell 14, the temperature of the solution in the electrolytic cell 14 rises. When the temperature rises to 50 ° C. or more, a temperature abnormality display and a temperature abnormality notification are performed (step P3). ). Then, the provisional power supply amount W set in step S24 of FIG.
Change the setting of ₀ to 0%. Further, the temporarily set flow rate Q ₀ of water into the electrolytic cell 14 is set to the maximum flow rate introduced into the water channel 10 for cooling the electrolytic cell 14, for example, 50 liters / minute in this embodiment (step). P3).

On the other hand, if the temperature T detected by the thermistor 40 is in the range of 40 ° C. <T <50 ° C. (when the judgment in step P2 is denied and the judgment in step P4 is affirmed), the temporary Reduce the set power supply,
In addition, the temporarily set flow rate is increased. Specifically, the power supply amount W ₀ is set to W ₀ = 10 × (50−T)%, and the flow rate Q
_{0 is set} to Q ₀ = 50 + 5 (50−T)% (step P
5).

The power supply amount W according to the detected temperature T
_The above equation for changing ₀ and the flow rate Q ₀ is merely an example, and the power supply amount W ₀ and the flow rate Q ₀ may be adjusted based on another equation. Next, the water pressure in the electrolytic cell 14 is detected by the pressure gauge 51 (see FIG. 1) connected to the outflow-side water channel of the electrolytic cell 14 (Step P6). As a result, the water pressure P
Is determined whether or not P ≧ 1 kgf / cm ² (step 7). If the determination is affirmative, a hydraulic pressure abnormality display and a hydraulic pressure abnormality notification are made (step 8). That is, the electrolytic cell 14
It is considered that a problem such as an abnormal rise of the inflow water pressure into the water or clogging of the water channel 10 is generated, and this is notified to a manager of the water treatment apparatus 1 or the like. Also, in this case, the power supply amount W ₀ of the electrode assembly 41 for safety as well as set to 0%, interrupting the flow of water into the electrolytic cell 14 by closing the electromagnetic valve B2. In this case, if necessary, the solenoid valve B3 is closed, the circulation pump 16 is stopped, and the solenoid valve B
10 may be opened to drain the water in the electrolytic cell 14 (step P12).

When the determination of the water pressure P in step P7 is denied and the water pressure P is in the normal range, the flow rate Q of the outflow side of the electrolytic cell 14 is detected by the flow meter 15, and the flow rate Q is determined to be a predetermined flow rate, that is, It is determined whether it is less than 5 liters / minute (step P10). If the outflow-side flow rate Q is smaller than the set flow rate, it can be estimated that there is an abnormality such as a clogging of the outlet side of the electrolytic cell 14, so that a flow rate abnormality display and a flow rate abnormality notification are performed (step P11). In this case as well, the process proceeds to step P12, where the electrolysis in the electrolytic cell 14 is stopped, and the solenoid valve B2 is closed to shut off the flow of water into the electrolytic cell 14.

With the above control, the water treatment apparatus 1
In particular, even if the electrolytic cell 14 causes a problem due to disturbance or failure, the optimum operation can be safely performed. FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram showing a structure in which a water treatment apparatus 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention is incorporated in a large water tank 2 called a pool. This water treatment device 100 is a water treatment device 1 shown in FIG.
The difference is that, in addition to the electrolytic cell 14, a gas removal tank 70 as a gas-liquid separation tank for separating gas generated during electrolysis in the electrolytic cell 14 from water is provided. The outflow side of the electrolytic cell 14 is provided with a gas removing tank 70 by a water channel 10 in which a regulating valve B10 and a flow meter 15 are interposed.
Is connected to

The gas removal tank 70 is provided with a float switch 71 for separating a gas contained in the water while storing a certain amount of water. The separated gas is discharged to the outside air via the exhaust pipe 72. The exhaust pipe 72 is provided with a hydrogen gas sensor 73 and a ventilation fan 74 for exhausting generated hydrogen gas, oxygen gas, and the like via the exhaust pipe 72.

The water in the gas removal tank 70 has a filter 7 at its tip.
The water is pumped out by a water channel 10 provided with 5. Further, in this embodiment, the diversion channel 30 branched from the branch point J3.
Is connected to the gas removal tank 70, and the water passing through the residual chlorine concentration sensor 31
It is configured to be returned to.

A circulation pump 76 is inserted in the inflow-side water passage 10 of the electrolytic cell 14. Although not shown, the current flowing through the ventilation fan 74 is monitored by the control unit 60, and the range of the current flowing through the ventilation fan 74 is in the range of 0.1 to 1 [A] in a normal state. ing. In the water treatment apparatus 100, flow meters 15 and 17 are provided in the water channel 10 before and after the gas removal tank 70 so that the flow rate of water flowing through the gas removal tank 70 can be detected. The flow rate of the water flowing through the gas removal tank 70 is controlled by the circulation pump 16 and the circulation pump 76. It is preferable that these two circulating pumps 16 and 76 can continuously adjust their water supply capacity by inverter control. The flow rate of the circulation pump 76 is controlled to be about 1 [liter / minute] larger than the flow rate of the circulation pump 16. However, when the float switch 71 operates, the circulation pump 76 is stopped. The water never overflows. As the float switch 71 of the gas removal tank 70,
For example, a hysteresis type can be used.

Another configuration is the water treatment apparatus 1 shown in FIG.
The same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and a description of those components will be omitted. The basic operation of the water treatment apparatus 100 shown in FIG.
Is the same as the control of the flowchart shown in FIG. The control operation that characterizes the water treatment apparatus 100 in FIG. 6 is the content of the safety subroutine. Next, the control content of the safety subroutine which is the feature will be described with reference to FIG.

In the safety subroutine shown in FIG. 7, the provisional power supply amount W ₀ and the provisional flow rate Q ₀ set in step S24 of FIG. 4 are adjusted to ensure safety. That is, the detected temperature of the thermistor 40 is read (step Q1), and the provisional set values of the power supply amount and the flow rate are adjusted according to the temperature. Specifically, when the temperature T of the electrolytic cell 14 detected by the thermistor 40 is 50 ° C. or more,
Temperature abnormality display and temperature abnormality notification are performed (step Q
3). Then, while the temporary power supply amount W _{0 is set} to 0% to stop the energization, the flow rate Q ₀ flowing into the electrolytic cell 14 is reduced by the maximum flow rate that can be introduced into the water channel 10 (this operation) in order to cool the electrolytic cell 14. In the example, it is set to 50 liters / minute). The operation of flowing the water at the set flow rate is realized by the circulation pump 16 and the circulation pump 76. By setting the flow rate of the circulation pump 76 on the inflow side to Q ₀ + α and the flow rate of the circulation pump 16 to Q ₀ , Cooling can be favorably performed in a state where the electrolytic bath 14 is filled with water.

When the temperature T is in the range of 40 ° C. <T <50 ° C.
Is the temporary power supply amount W according to the temperature.₀Decrease the set value of
And the provisional flow rate set value Q₀Increase. Specifically
Is W ₀× (50-T)%, Q₀= 50 + 5 (50−
T) by W₀And Q₀Set the value of
You. The above control operation is substantially the same as the operation described with reference to FIG.
Is the same.

Next, the concentration H of hydrogen gas generated from the gas removal tank 70 is detected by the hydrogen gas sensor 73 (step Q6). If the detected concentration H exceeds the lower limit of combustion limit of 4%, a display of a hydrogen concentration abnormality and a notification of a hydrogen concentration abnormality are performed (step Q8).
In this case, the provisional power supply amount W ₀ is set to 0%.

When the detected hydrogen concentration is 2% ≦ H <4
In the range of%, the power supply amount Wx is calculated according to the concentration (step Q10). This calculation is, for example, Wx
= 50 x (4-H)%. The calculated power supply amount Wx is compared with the temporary power supply amount W ₀ (step Q11), the it power supply amount when Wx is small (step Q12).

Next, the amount of current flowing through the ventilation fan 74 provided on the same exhaust path as the hydrogen gas sensor 73 is measured by a ventilation fan ammeter 74a.
(Step Q13). As a result, if the ventilation fan current I is 1 A or more or less than 0.1 A, it is considered that a problem such as locking or disconnection of the ventilation fan 74 has occurred, and a ventilation fan abnormality display and ventilation fan abnormality notification are performed (step Q1).
5). In that case, the provisional power supply amount W ₀ is set to 0%.

Further, the flow rate Q
Is detected (step Q16), and if the flow rate Q is less than 5 liters / minute, it is considered that the air is clogged by the circulation pump 16 or the failure of the circulation pump 16 is a cause. A notification is issued (step Q18). Then, the provisional power supply amount W _{0 is set} to 0%, the circulation pump 76 is stopped, and the solenoid valve B2 is closed.
The flow of water into the electrolytic cell 14 is cut off (step Q1).
9).

Finally, when the fullness of the gas removal tank 70 is detected by turning on the float switch 71 (steps Q20 and Q21), the temporary power supply amount W ₀ is reduced to 0%.
, The circulation pump 76 is stopped, the solenoid valve B2 is closed, and the flow of water into the electrolytic cell 14 is cut off. After passing through the safety subroutine, the process returns to the main routine shown in FIG. 4, and control is performed so as to match the adjusted power supply amount W ₀ and flow amount Q ₀ .

Although not described in the above embodiment, an inverter is installed in the ventilation fan 74, the number of rotations of the ventilation fan 74 is controlled according to the hydrogen gas concentration detected by the hydrogen gas sensor 73, and the ventilation amount is reduced. It may be adjusted.
By performing the control including the safety subroutine as described above, it is possible to safely and appropriately control the water treatment apparatus.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram showing a structure in which a water treatment apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is incorporated in a water tank.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the water treatment device.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing maintenance control of the electrolytic cell.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of electrolysis control in an electrolytic cell of a water treatment device.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing specific contents of a safety subroutine using a sealed electrolytic cell.

FIG. 6 is a simplified view showing a structure in which a water treatment apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention is incorporated in a water tank.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a specific content of a safety subroutine when a gas-liquid separation type electrolytic cell is used.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,100 Water treatment apparatus 10 Water path 13 Conductivity sensor 14 Electrolyzer 15,17 Flow meter 16,21,76 Circulation pump 31 Residual chlorine concentration sensor 40 Thermistor 41 Positive electrode set 42 Minus electrode set 43 Power supply voltage 44 Ammeter 48 Acetic acid solution tank 51 Pressure gauge 60 Control unit 61 Setting unit 70 Gas removal tank 73 Hydrogen gas sensor 74 Ventilation fan B2, B3, B9, B10 Solenoid valve

Continued on the front page (72) Minoru Kishi 2-5-5 Keihanhondori, Moriguchi-shi, Osaka Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. (72) Kazura Kawamura 2-5-5 Keihanhondori, Moriguchi-shi, Osaka No. Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Tatsuya Hirota 2-5-5 Keihanhondori, Moriguchi-shi, Osaka F-term in Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. 4D050 AA08 AA10 AB06 BB06 BD04 BD06 BD08 CA10 4D061 DA05 DA07 DB01 DB10 EA03 EB20 EB30 EB37 EB38 EB39 ED20 FA20 GA06 GA09 GA12 GA19 GA21 GA30 GB11 GC02 GC12 GC14

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A water treatment apparatus comprising an electrolytic cell having an electrode, wherein a current to be supplied to the electrolytic cell is sterilized by an electrochemical reaction by supplying electricity to the electrode. Detecting means, conductivity measuring means for measuring the electrical conductivity of the water to be treated, and scale adhesion determining means for determining the degree of scale adhesion to the electrode based on the outputs of the current value detecting means and the conductivity measuring means, A water treatment apparatus comprising: 2. The water treatment apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a life judging means for judging the life of the electrode based on the outputs of the current value detecting means and the conductivity measuring means. apparatus. 3. An electrolytic cell for sterilizing the water to be treated by an electrochemical reaction, a water channel for introducing the water to be treated into the electrolytic cell and flowing out the water sterilized in the electrolytic cell, and a residual chlorine concentration of the water to be treated. A residual chlorine sensor for measuring the residual chlorine concentration, a means for setting the residual chlorine concentration, and a control means for controlling the amount of electricity supplied to the electrolytic cell so that the measured value of the residual chlorine sensor becomes the residual chlorine concentration set by the setting means. A water treatment apparatus comprising: 4. A water treatment apparatus, comprising: an electrolytic cell having an electrode, wherein the water to be treated supplied to the electrolytic cell is sterilized by an electrochemical reaction by supplying electricity to the electrode. A water treatment apparatus comprising: a detection unit; and a unit that controls energization of an electrode based on a temperature detected by the temperature detection unit. 5. The water treatment apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising means for controlling a supply amount of the water to be treated to the electrolytic cell based on a temperature detected by the temperature detection means. apparatus. 6. A water treatment apparatus comprising an electrolytic cell having an electrode and sterilizing water to be treated, which is supplied to the electrolytic cell by energizing the electrode, by an electrochemical reaction, wherein the sterilized water flowing out of the electrolytic cell is sterilized. 1. A water treatment apparatus, comprising: an outflow flow rate detecting means for detecting a flow rate of water; and a means for controlling an amount of electricity to an electrode based on a detection signal of the outflow flow rate detecting means. 7. A water treatment apparatus comprising an electrolytic cell having an electrode, wherein the water to be treated supplied to the electrolytic cell is sterilized by an electrochemical reaction by supplying electricity to the electrode, wherein the sterilized water flowing out of the electrolytic cell is sterilized. Outflow flow rate detection means for detecting the flow rate of the water to be treated, supply amount control means for controlling the supply amount of the water to be treated to the electrolytic cell, and supply amount control means based on the detection signal of the outflow flow rate detection means. A water treatment apparatus for controlling a supply amount of water to be treated. 8. An electrolytic cell having an electrode and sterilizing water to be treated supplied by energizing the electrode by an electrochemical reaction, and a gas-liquid separator for separating gas generated during the electrochemical reaction in the electrolytic cell from water. A water treatment device having a tank, comprising: a hydrogen concentration detecting means provided in the gas-liquid separation tank; and a power supply amount controlling means for controlling power supply to the electrodes based on a signal from the hydrogen concentration detecting means. Characterized water treatment equipment. 9. An electrolytic cell having an electrode and sterilizing water to be treated supplied by energizing the electrode by an electrochemical reaction, and a gas-liquid separator for separating gas generated during the electrochemical reaction in the electrolytic cell from water. A water treatment apparatus having a tank, an exhaust unit for forcibly exhausting the gas separated in the gas-liquid separation tank, a unit for detecting an exhaust state of the exhaust unit, and energizing the electrodes based on a detection signal of the detection unit. Means for controlling the amount of water.