What can cause a change in the gradient line of a water treatment system?

A change in the gradient line of a water treatment system can occur due to a leak on an underdrain flange. The gradient line represents the hydraulic head at various points in a water treatment system, and any abnormality, like a leak, can disrupt the normal flow and pressure dynamics.

When there is a leak, water can escape from the system, resulting in a drop in hydraulic pressure in the affected area. This leads to a change in the water level and head measurements, which are represented in the gradient line. The leak can cause variability in flow rates and may lead to insufficient treatment if the system cannot maintain optimal hydraulic conditions.

While improper chemical dosing, excessive filtration, and overgrowth of algae can all affect the treatment process and water quality, they do not directly impact the gradient line in the same way that a physical disruption like a leak does. These issues might influence overall treatment efficiency or effectiveness, but the hydraulic system's physical characteristics, represented by the gradient line, are notably altered by leaks.