What is claimed is:
1. A fluid treatment system comprising: an inlet; an outlet; a fluid treatment zone disposed between the inlet and the outlet, the fluid treatment zone having disposed therein: (i) an elongate first radiation source assembly having a first longitudinal axis, and (ii) an elongate second radiation source assembly having a second longitudinal axis; wherein the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are non- parallel to each other and to a direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
2. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 1, wherein the fluid treatment system comprises an enclosure having closed cross-section or an open cross-section.
3. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 2, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a polygonal shape.
4. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 2, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectilinear shape.
5. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 2, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a square shape.
6. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 2, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectangular shape.
7. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-6. wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source.
8. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 7, wherein the first radiation source is disposed in a first protective sleeve.
9. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 8, wherein the first protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
10. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-9, wherein the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
11. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 10, wherein the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
12. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 11, wherein the second protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
13. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-12, wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source and the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
14. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 13, wherein the first radiation source is disposed in a first protective sleeve and the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
15. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 14, wherein the first protective sleeve and the second protective sleeve each comprise a closed end and an open end.
16. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-15, wherein the enclosure comprises a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure.
17. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-16, wherein the enclosure comprises a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the second radiation source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
18. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-17, wherein the enclosure comprises: (i) a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure, and (ii) a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal second radiation source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
19. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 16, wherein the first mounting device comprises a sleeve or a radiation source projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
20. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 17, wherein the second mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
21. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 18, wherein each of the first mounting device and the second mounting device comprises a sleeve or a radiation source projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
22. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-21, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an acute angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis.
23. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-21, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 15° to about 170°.
24. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-21, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 35° about 120°.
25. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-21, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 60° about 90°.
26. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-25, further comprising a support element for supporting distal portion of the first radiation source assembly.
27. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-25, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
28. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-25, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
29. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 26-28, wherein the support element supports each radiation source assembly.
30. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 26-28, wherein the support element comprises a plate that supports each radiation source assembly.
31. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 26-28, wherein the support element supports a portion of all radiation source assemblies present in the fluid treatment system.
32. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 26-28, wherein the support element comprises a post disposed substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through fluid treatment zone.
33. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-32, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are co- planar.
34. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-32, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are non- planar.
35. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-34, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet.
36. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-34, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet at a point downstream of the inlet.
37. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-34, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet.
38. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-34, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet at a point upstream of the outlet.
39. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-38, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an areay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies.
40. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 39, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies arranged serially along a length of the enclosure.
41. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 39, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies arranged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
42. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 39, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure.
43. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 39, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
44. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 39, wherein the first bank comprises: (i) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
45. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 39, wherein the second bank comprises: (i) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
46. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-45, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are substantially minor images of one another along a first plane disposed parallel to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
47. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-45, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein adjacent pairs of radiation source assemblies in the first bank and the second bank are in a planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
48. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-45, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an areay of radiation source assemblies arranged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are in a non-planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
49. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-48, further comprising a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
50. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-48, further comprising a second transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
51. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-48, further comprising: (i) a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone, and (ii) a second transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
52. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 49-51, wherein the variable dimension increases in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
53. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 49, wherein at least one of the first transition zone and the second transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
54. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 50, wherein at least one of the first transition zone and the second transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
55. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 51, wherein each of the first transition zone and the second transition zone has a closed cross-section having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
56. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 51 or 55, wherein at least one of the first transition zone and the second transition zone comprises an intennediate transition region juxtaposed to the fluid treatment zone, the intennediate transition region having a variable dimension in first direction orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone and constant dimension in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.
57. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-56, wherein at least one of the elongate first radiation source assembly and the elongate second radiation source assembly comprises an ultraviolet radiation source.
58. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-56, wherein each of the elongate first radiation source assembly and the elongate second radiation source assembly comprises an ultraviolet radiation source.
59. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-56, wherein at least one of the elongate first radiation source assembly and the elongate second radiation source assembly comprises an ultraviolet radiation source selected from the group comprising: low pressure, low pressure/high output, amalgam and photon emitting.
60. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-56, wherein each of the elongate first radiation source assembly and the elongate second radiation source assembly comprises an ultraviolet radiation source selected from the group comprising: low pressure, low pressure/high output, amalgam and photon emitting.
61. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 49-51, wherein the variable dimension decreases in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
62. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 1-61, wherein the fluid treatment zone comprises an enclosure having a pair of side walls interconnecting a top wall and a bottom wall.
63. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 62, wherein a least portion of the top wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
64. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 62, wherein a least portion of the bottom wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
65. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 62, wherein a least portion of the ' top wall and the bottom wall each comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
66. The fluid treatment zone defined in any one of Claims 63-65, wherein the non- metallic material comprises Teflon™.
67. A fluid treatment system comprising: an inlet; an outlet; a fluid treatment zone disposed between the inlet and the outlet, the fluid treatment zone having disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged serially from an upstream region to a downstream region of fluid treatment zone such that: (i) each radiation source assembly has a longitudinal axis transverse or parallel to a direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone, (ii) the longitudinal axis of an upstream radiation source assembly is staggered with respect to a downstream radiation source assembly in a direction orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone to define a partial overlap between the upstream radiation source assembly and the downstream radiation source assembly, and, optionally, (iii) a flow of fluid has no unobstructed path tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
68. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 67, wherein the fluid treatment system comprises an enclosure having a closed or open cross-section
69. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 61, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a polygonal shape.
70. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 67, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectilinear shape.
71. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 67, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a square shape.
72. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 67, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectangular shape.
73. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-72, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein: (i) an elongate first radiation source assembly having a first longitudinal axis, and (ii) an elongate second radiation source assembly having a second longitudinal axis; wherein the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are non-parallel to each other and to a direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
74. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 73, wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source.
75. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 74, wherein the first radiation source is disposed in a first protective sleeve.
76. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 75, wherein the first protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
77. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-76, wherein the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
78. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 77, wherein the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
79. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 78, wherein the second protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
80. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-79, wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source and the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
81. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 80, wherein the first radiation source is disposed in a first protective sleeve and the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
82. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 81, wherein the first protective sleeve and the second protective sleeve each comprise a closed end and an open end.
83. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-82, wherein the enclosure comprises a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure.
84. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-82, wherein the enclosure comprises a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the second radiation source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
85. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-82, wherein the enclosure comprises: (i) a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure, and (ii) a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal second radiation source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
86. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 83, wherein the first mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
87. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 84, wherein the second mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
88. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 85, wherein each of the first mounting device and the second mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
89. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-88, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an acute angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis.
90. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-88, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 15° about 170°.
91. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-88, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 35° about 120°.
92. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-88, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 60° about 90°.
93. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-92, further comprising a support element for supporting distal portion of the first radiation source assembly.
94. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-92, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
95. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-92, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
96. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 93-95, wherein the support element supports each radiation source assembly.
97. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 93-95, wherein the support element comprises a plate that supports each radiation source assembly.
98. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 93-95, wherein the support element supports a portion of all radiation source assemblies present in the fluid treatment system.
99. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 93-95, wherein the support element comprises a post disposed substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough fluid treatment zone.
100. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-99, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are co- planar.
101. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-99, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are non- planar.
102. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-101, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet.
103. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-101, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet at a point downstream of the inlet.
104. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-101, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet.
105. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-101, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet at a point upstream of the outlet.
106. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 73-105, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies arranged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies.
107. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 106, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure.
108. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 106, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies arranged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
109. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 106, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies arranged serially along a length of the enclosure.
110. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 106, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
111. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 106, wherein the first bank comprises: (i) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
112. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 106, wherein the second bank comprises: (i) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
113. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-112, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies arranged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are substantial minor images of one another along a first plane disposed parallel to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
114. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-112, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are in a planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
115. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-112, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are in a non-planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
116. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-115, further comprising a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
117. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-115, further comprising a second transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
118. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-115, further comprising: (i) a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone, and (ii) a second transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
1 19. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 116-118, wherein the variable dimension increases in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
120. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 116, wherein the first transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
121. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 117, wherein the second transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
122. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 118, wherein each of the first transition zone and the second transition zone has a closed cross-section having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
123. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 118 or 122, wherein at least one of the first transition zone and the second transition zone comprises an intermediate transition region juxtaposed to the fluid treatment zone, the intermediate transition region having a variable dimension in first direction orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone and constant dimension in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.
124. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-123, wherein the radiation source assembly comprises an ultraviolet radiation source.
125. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-123, wherein the radiation source assembly comprises a low pressure high output ultraviolet radiation source.
126. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 67-125, wherein the fluid treatment zone comprises an enclosure having a pair of side walls interconnecting a top wall and a bottom wall.
127. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 126, wherein a least portion of the top wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
128. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 126, wherein a least portion of the bottom wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
129. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 126, wherein a least portion of the top wall and the bottom wall each comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
130. The fluid treatment zone defined in any one of Claims 127-129, wherein the non-metallic material comprises Teflon™.
131. A fluid treatment system comprising: an inlet; an outlet; a fluid treatment zone disposed between the inlet and the outlet, the fluid treatment zone having disposed therein an anay of rows of radiation source assemblies; each radiation source assembly having a longitudinal axis transverse or parallel to a direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone; each row comprising a plurality of radiation source assemblies in spaced relation in a direction transverse to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone to define a gap through which fluid may flow between an adjacent pair of radiation source assemblies; all rows in the array being staggered with respect to one another in a direction orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone such that the gap between an adjacent pair of radiation source assemblies in an upstream row of radiation source assemblies is partially or completely obstructed in the direction of fluid flow by at least two serially disposed downstream rows of radiation source assemblies.
132. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 131, wherein the anay comprises from three to twenty rows of radiation source assemblies.
133. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 131, wherein the anay comprises from three to fifteen rows of radiation source assemblies.
134. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-133, wherein the fluid treatment zone comprises an open cross-section or an enclosure having a closed cross-section.
135. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 134, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a polygonal shape.
136. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 134, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectilinear shape.
137. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 134, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a square shape.
138. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 134, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectangular shape.
139. The fluid treatment system defined in anyone of Claims 131-138, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein: (i) an elongate first radiation source assembly having a first longitudinal axis, and (ii) an elongate second radiation source assembly having a second longitudinal axis; wherein the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are non-parallel to each other and to a direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
140. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 139, wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source.
141. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 140, wherein the first radiation source is disposed in a first protective sleeve.
142. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 141, wherein the first protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
143. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-142, wherein the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
144. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 143, wherein the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
145. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 144, wherein the second protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
146. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-145, wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source and the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
147. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 146, wherein the first radiation source is disposed in a first protective sleeve and the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
148. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 147, wherein the first protective sleeve and the second protective sleeve each comprise a closed end and an open end.
149. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-148, wherein the enclosure comprises a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure.
150. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-148, wherein the enclosure comprises a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the second radiation source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
151. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-148, wherein the enclosure comprises: (i) a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure, and (ii) a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal second radiation source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
152. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 149, wherein the first mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
153. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 150, wherein the second mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
154. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 151, wherein each of the first mounting device and the second mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
155. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-154, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an acute angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis.
156. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-154, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 15° about 170°.
157. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-154, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 35° about 120°.
158. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-154, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 60° about 90°.
159. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-158, further comprising a support element for supporting distal portion of the first radiation source assembly.
160. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-158, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
161. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-158, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
162. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 159-161, wherein the support element supports each radiation source assembly.
163. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 159-161, wherein the support element comprises a plate that supports each radiation source assembly.
164. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 159-161, wherein the support element supports a portion of all radiation source assemblies present in the fluid treatment system.
165. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 159-161, wherein the support element comprises a post disposed substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through fluid treatment zone.
166. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-165, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are co- planar.
167. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-165, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are non- planar.
168. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-167, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet.
169. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-167, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet at a point downstream of the inlet.
170. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-167, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet.
171. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-167, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet at a point upstream of the outlet.
172. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 139-171, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an airay of radiation source assemblies arranged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies.
173. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 172, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure.
174. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 172, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies arranged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
175. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 172, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies arranged serially along a length of the enclosure.
176. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 172, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
177. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 172, wherein the first bank comprises: (i) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies arranged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
178. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 172, wherein the second bank comprises: (i) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies arranged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
179. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-178, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are substantial minor images of one another along a first plane disposed parallel to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
180. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-178, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are in a planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
181. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-178, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are in a non-planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
182. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-181, further comprising a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
183. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-181, further comprising a second transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
184. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-181, further comprising: (i) a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone, and (ii) a second transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
185. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 182-184, wherein the variable dimension increases in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
186. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 182, wherein the first transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
187. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 183, wherein the second transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
188. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 184, wherein each of the first transition zone and the second transition zone has a closed cross-section having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
189. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 184 or 188, wherein at least one of the first transition zone and the second transition zone comprises an intennediate transition region juxtaposed to the fluid treatment zone, the intermediate transition region having a variable dimension in first direction orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone and constant dimension in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.
190. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-189, wherein the radiation source assembly comprises an ultraviolet radiation source.
191. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-189, wherein the radiation source assembly comprises a low pressure high output ultraviolet radiation source.
192. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 131-191, wherein the fluid treatment zone comprises an enclosure having a pair of side walls intercomiecting a top wall and a bottom wall.
193. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 192, wherein a least portion of the top wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
194. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 192, wherein a least portion of the bottom wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
195. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 192, wherein a least portion of the top wall and the bottom wall each comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
196. The fluid treatment zone defined in any one of Claims 193-195, wherein the non-metallic material comprises Teflon™.
197. A fluid treatment system comprising: an inlet; an outlet; a fluid treatment zone disposed between the inlet and the outlet, the fluid treatment zone having disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies, each radiation source assembly having a longitudinal axis transverse to a direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone; the array of radiation source assemblies comprising: a first row of radiation source assemblies, a second row of radiation source assemblies downstream from the first row of radiation source assemblies, a third row of radiation source assemblies downstream from the second row of radiation source assemblies and a fourth row of radiation source assemblies downstream from the third row of radiation source assemblies; an adjacent pair of radiation source assemblies in the first row defining a first gap tlirough which fluid may flow, a radiation source assembly from the second row partially obstmcting the first gap to divide the first gap into a second gap and a third gap, a radiation source assembly from the third row at least partially obstmcting the second gap and a radiation source assembly from the fourth row at least partially obstmcting the third gap.
198. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 197, wherein the fluid treatment system comprises a multiple number, N, of the anay.
199. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 198, wherein N has a value of from 1 to 10.
200. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-199, wherein the fluid treatment zone comprises an open cross-section or an enclosure having a closed cross-section.
201. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 200, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a polygonal shape.
202. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 200, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectilinear shape.
203. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 200, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a square shape.
204. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 200, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectangular shape.
205. The fluid treatment system defined in anyone of Claims 197-204, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein: (i) an elongate first radiation source assembly having a first longitudinal axis, and (ii) an elongate second radiation source assembly having a second longitudinal axis; wherein the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are non-parallel to each other and to a direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
206. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 205, wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source.
207. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 206, wherein the first radiation sovwce is disposed in a first protective sleeve.
208. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 207, wherein the first protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
209. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-208, wherein the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
210. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 209, wherein the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
211. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 210, wherein the second protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
212. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-211, wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source and the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
213. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 212, wherein the first radiation source is disposed in a first protective sleeve and the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
214. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 2 3, wherein the first protective sleeve and the second protective sleeve each comprise a closed end and an open end.
215. The fluid treatment system defined in any one o f Claims 197-214, wherein the enclosure comprises a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure.
216. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-214, wherein the enclosure comprises a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the second radiation source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
217. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-214, wherein the enclosure comprises: (i) a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure, and (ii) a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal second radiation- source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
218. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 2 15, wherein the first mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior siirface of the enclosure.
219. The fluid treatment system defined in Claάm 216, wherein the second mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting fro m an exterior surface of the enclosure.
220. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 217, wherein each of the first mounting device and the second mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
221. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-220, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an acute angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis.
222. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-220, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 15° about 170°.
223. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-220, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 35° about 120°.
224. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-220, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation so irce assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 60° about 90°.
225. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-224, further comprising a support element for supporting distal portion of the first radiation source assembly.
226. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-224, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
227. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-224, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
228. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 225-227, wherein the support element supports each radiation source assembly.
229. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 225-227, wherein the support element comprises a plate that supports each radiation source assembly.
230. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 225-227, wherein the support element supports a portion of all radiation source assemblies present in the fluid treatment system.
231. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 225-227, wherein the support element comprises a post disposed substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through fluid treatment zone.
232. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-231 , wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are co- planar.
233. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-231, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are non- planar.
234. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-233, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet.
235. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-233, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet at a point downstream of the inlet.
236. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-233, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet.
237. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-233, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet at a point upstream of the outlet.
238. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 205-237, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies.
239. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 238, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure.
240. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 238, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies arranged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
241. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 238, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure.
242. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 238, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
243. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 238, wherein the first bank comprises: (i) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
244. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 238, wherein the second bank comprises: (i) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies arranged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
245. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-244, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are substantial mirror images of one another along a first plane disposed parallel to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
246. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-244, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are in a planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
247. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-244, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are in a non-planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
248. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-247, further comprising a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
249. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-247, further comprising a second transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
250. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-24~7, further comprising: (i) a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogo-nal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone, and (ii) a second "transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through- the fluid treatment zone.
251. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 248-250, whxerein the variable dimension increases in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
252. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 248, wherein the first transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional a-rea in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
253. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 249, wherein the; second transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
254. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 250, wherein each of the first transition zone and the second transition zone has a closed cross-section having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
255. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 250 or 254, wherein at least one of the first transition zone and the second transition zone comprises an intennediate transition region juxtaposed to the fluid treatment zone, the intermediate transition region having a variable dimension in first direction orthogonad to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone and constant dimension in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.
256. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-255, wherein the radiation source assembly comprises an ultraviolet radiation source.
257. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-255, wherein the radiation source assembly comprises a low pressure high output ultraviolet radiation source.
258. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 197-257, wherein the fluid treatment zone comprises an enclosure having a pair of side walls interconnecting a top wall and a bottom wall.
259. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 258, wherein a least portion of the top wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
260. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 258, wherein a least portion of the bottom wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
261. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 258, wherein a least portion of the top wall and the bottom wall each comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
262. The fluid treatment zone defined in any one of Claims 259-261, wherein the non-metallic material comprises Teflon™.
263. A fluid treatment system comprising: an inlet; an outlet; a fluid treatment zone disposed between the inlet and the outlet, the fluid treatment zone having disposed therein an anay comprising 4 rows radiation source assemblies arranged serially from an upstream portion to a downstream portion of the fluid treatment zone; each radiation source assembly having a longitudinal axis transverse to a direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone; wherein: (i) a first pair of rows of radiation source assemblies in the anay comprise substantially uniform spacing between adjacent pairs of radiation source assemblies in the row; and (ii) a second pair of rows of radiation source assemblies in the anay comprise substantially non-unifonn spacing between adjacent pairs of radiation source assemblies in the row.
264. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 263, wherein the first pair of rows of radiation source assemblies is interposed between the second pair of rows of radiation source assemblies.
265. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-264, wherein the fluid treatment system comprises a multiple number, N, of the anay.
266. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 265, wherein N has a value of
267. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-265, wherein the fluid treatment zone comprises an open cross-section or an enclosure having a closed cross-section.
268. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 267, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a polygonal shape.
269. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 267, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectilinear shape.
270. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 267, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a square shape.
271. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 267, wherein the closed cross- section of the enclosure comprises a rectangular shape.
272. The fluid treatment system defined in anyone of Claims 263-271, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein: (i) an elongate first radiation source assembly having a first longitudinal axis, and (ii) an. elongate second radiation source assembly having a second longitudinal axis; wherein the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are non-parallel to each other and to a direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
273. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 272, wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source.
274. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 273, wherein the first radiation source is disposed in a first protective sleeve.
275. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 274, wherein the first protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
276. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-275, wherein the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
277. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 276, wherein the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
278. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 277, wherein the second protective sleeve comprises a closed end and an open end.
279. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-278, wherein the first radiation source assembly comprises a first radiation source and the second radiation source assembly comprises a second radiation source.
280. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 279, wherein the first radiation source is disposed in a first protective sleeve and the second radiation source is disposed in a second protective sleeve.
281. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 280, wherein the first protective sleeve and the second protective sleeve each comprise a closed end and an open end.
282. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-281, wherein the enclosure comprises a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure.
283. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-281, wherein the enclosure comprises a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the second radiation source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
284. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-281, wherein the enclosure comprises: (i) a first mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a first wall of the enclosure, and (ii) a second mounting device for substantially fluid tight engagement between a proximal second radiation source assembly and a second wall of the enclosure.
285. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 282, wherein the first mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
286. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 283, wherein the second mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
287. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 284, wherein each of the first mounting device and the second mounting device comprises a sleeve projecting from an exterior surface of the enclosure.
288. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-287, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an acute angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis.
289. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-287, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 15° about 170°.
290. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-287, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 35° about 120°.
291. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-287, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented to define an angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis in the range of from about 60° about 90°.
292. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-291, further comprising a support element for supporting distal portion of the first radiation source assembly.
293. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-292, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
294. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-292, further comprising a support element for supporting a distal portion of the first radiation source assembly and a distal portion of the second radiation source assembly.
295. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 292-294, wherein the support element supports each radiation source assembly.
296. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 292-294, wherein the support element comprises a plate that supports each radiation source assembly.
297. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 292-294, wherein the support element supports a portion of all radiation source assemblies present in the fluid treatment system.
298. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 292-294, wherein the support element comprises a post disposed substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through fluid treatment zone.
299. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-298, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are co- planar.
300. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-298, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are non- planar.
301. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-300, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet.
302. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-300, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the inlet at a point downstream of the inlet.
303. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-300, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet.
304. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-300, wherein the first radiation source assembly and the second radiation source assembly are oriented such that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis converge toward the outlet at a point upstream of the outlet.
305. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 272-304, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies.
306. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 305, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies arranged serially along a length of the enclosure.
307. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 305, wherein the first bank comprises a plurality of first radiation source assemblies arranged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
308. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 305, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure.
309. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 305, wherein the second bank comprises a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
310. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 305, wherein the first bank comprises: (i) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of first radiation source assemblies arranged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
311. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 305, wherein the second bank comprises: (i) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially along a length of the enclosure, and (ii) a plurality of second radiation source assemblies ananged serially in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
312. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263 -311 , wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies arranged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are substantial minor images of one another along a first plane disposed parallel to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone.
313. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-311 , wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are in a planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
314. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-311, wherein the fluid treatment zone has disposed therein an anay of radiation source assemblies ananged as: (i) a first bank of first radiation source assemblies, and (ii) a second bank of second radiation source assemblies; wherein the first bank and the second bank are in a non-planar relationship in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.
315. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-314, further comprising a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
316. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-314, further comprising a second transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
317. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-314, further comprising: (i) a first transition zone interposed between the inlet and the fluid treatment zone, the first transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone, and (ii) a second transition zone interposed between the fluid zone and the outlet, the second transition zone having a variable dimension orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone.
318. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 315-317, wherein the variable dimension increases in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
319. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 315, wherein the first transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
320. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 316, wherein the second transition zone has a closed cross-section, having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
321. The fluid treatment system defined in Claim 317, wherein each of the first transition zone and the second transition zone has a closed cross-section having an increasing cross-sectional area in a direction toward the fluid treatment zone.
322. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 317 or 321, wherein at least one of the first transition zone and the second transition zone comprises an intermediate transition region juxtaposed to the fluid treatment zone, the intermediate transition region having a variable dimension in first direction orthogonal to the direction of fluid flow tlirough the fluid treatment zone and constant dimension in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.
323. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-322, wherein the radiation source assembly comprises an ultraviolet radiation source.
324. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-322, wherein the radiation source assembly comprises a low pressure high output ultraviolet radiation source.
325. The fluid treatment system defined in any one of Claims 263-324, wherein the fluid treatment zone comprises an enclosure having a pair of side walls interconnecting a top wall and a bottom wall.
326. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 325, wherein a least portion of the top wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
327. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 325, wherein a least portion of the bottom wall comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
328. The fluid treatment zone defined in Claim 325, wherein a least portion of the top wall and the bottom wall each comprises a non-metallic material having greater radiation reflectance than metal.
329. The fluid treatment zone defined in any one of Claims 326-328, wherein the non-metallic material comprises Teflon™.