Glossary of Water and Wastewater Terms

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5 random terms from our glossary

Chelation (key-LAY-shun)

A chemical complexing (forming or joining together) of metallic cations (such as copper) with certain organic compounds, such as EDTA (ethylene diamine tetracetic acid). Chelation is used to prevent the precipitation of metals (copper). Also see SEQUESTRATION.

Upper Flammable Limit (UFL)

See UPPER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT (UEL).

Sewer Main

A sewer pipe to which building laterals are connected. Also called a collection main.

Water Lance

A pipe on the end of a water hose that is used to hydraulically jet out solids.

Aspirate (AS-per-rate)

Use of a hydraulic device (aspirator or eductor) to create a negative pressure (suction) by forcing a liquid through a restriction, such as a Venturi tube. An aspirator may be used in the laboratory in place of a vacuum pump; sometimes used instead of a sump pump.