The Aries High Purity Water System is a specialized water treatment solution designed for laboratory environments requiring ultra-pure water. This article provides an in-depth review of the installation procedures, operational features, and maintenance requirements for the Aries system, drawing from the official installation and operation manual and supplementary technical documentation. The information is structured to support U.S.-based users, including technical professionals, lab technicians, and IT personnel, in understanding and deploying the Aries system effectively.
The Aries system is a modular, high-purity water purification unit that employs a combination of filtration, recirculation, and optional ultraviolet (UV) purification technologies. It is designed to meet the standards for Type I water purity, making it suitable for sensitive laboratory applications such as analytical chemistry, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical research. The system includes various model types and options to accommodate different laboratory needs, including UV light integration, recirculating dispensing guns, and wall-mounting brackets. Installation and operation require adherence to strict safety protocols and the use of appropriate tools and components, as outlined in the manufacturer’s documentation.
Installation Requirements and Recommended Tools
Installation of the Aries High Purity Water System must be carried out by authorized and trained personnel, as specified in the official installation manual. Safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), must be followed throughout the process. The system requires a grounded GFI electrical connection, and all electrical work must be performed with the power isolated to prevent accidents.
Before installation, users must prepare the machine foundation and ensure that the wall mount can support a minimum weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg). The wall mount bracket is designed with 16-inch centers to align with standard wall studs. If studs are not available, the manufacturer recommends mounting the unit to a plywood sheet fixed to the wall. The bracket should be installed with the small slots in the tabs pointing upward to ensure proper alignment.
The following tools and components are recommended for installation:
- (2) 3/8″ Quick Connection Isolation Valve for upstream isolation and depressurization
- 0-100 psi pressure gauge (300-grade stainless steel) for diagnostics
- Tube cutter
- #2 Phillips Head Screw Driver
- Teflon tape
- Basic hand tools (adjustable wrench, pliers, socket wrench, etc.)
- Tie-wraps
- Optional items: drill for wall mount, measuring tape, small electronics size flat screwdriver, and 6 feet of 3/8″ hose for commissioning
Users are also advised to install the right-angle valve into the front of the unit outlet and to delay the installation of the final capsule filter until the final step of setup. This ensures that no particulate or debris is introduced into the system prematurely.
System Setup and Configuration
The Aries system should be installed in a location that is accessible and near both water and electrical supply connections. If the water supply does not already have an isolation valve for servicing the Aries system, it should be installed upstream of the unit connection to facilitate maintenance and depressurization.
The unit is designed to recirculate water through multiple purification technologies to maintain consistent purity levels. A timer controller automatically runs the system for 30 minutes every 2 hours. This cycle helps to prevent stagnation and microbial growth within the system. When the system transitions from “Operating” mode to “Stand By” mode, the recirculation pump, solenoid, resistivity display, and UV lamp (if installed) are turned off. A “WAKE” button on the side of the system allows users to manually reset the cycle timer back to the “Operating” condition.
Available options for the Aries system include:
- UV (ARA-UV): Combines ultraviolet light for total organic carbon (TOC) and bacterial reduction
- ARA-DC: Recirculating dispensing gun with final filter, mounted on the side of the unit
- Secondary direct feed port: Provides an additional water output
- Wall mounting bracket: Allows for secure installation on laboratory walls
Each model variant offers different filtration and purification capabilities. For example, the ARS-102 model includes a 0.2 micron outlet final filter, while the ARS-105 model includes a 0.05 micron ultrafilter for endotoxin removal. UV-equipped models (ARS-102-UV and ARS-105-UV) offer enhanced bacterial and TOC reduction.
Technical Specifications and Model Variants
The Aries High Purity Water System is available in multiple model configurations, each tailored to specific laboratory needs:
| Model Type | Description |
|---|---|
| ARS-102 | Aries Lab Water System with 0.2 Micron Outlet Final Filter |
| ARS-105 | Aries Lab Water System with 0.05 Micron Outlet Ultrafilter for Endotoxin Removal |
| ARS-102-UV | Aries Lab Water System with installed UV and 0.2 Micron Outlet Final Filter |
| ARS-105-UV | Aries Lab Water System with installed UV 0.05 Micron Outlet Ultrafilter for Endotoxin Removal |
Each model includes a submicron filter by default, and start-up cartridges must be purchased separately. The system’s design allows for the integration of additional components, such as UV lamps and recirculating dispensing guns, to enhance performance and functionality.
The system is equipped with a timer controller that ensures continuous recirculation, helping to maintain water purity over extended periods. The recirculation process is automatic and requires minimal user intervention, making it ideal for laboratories that require consistent, high-quality water without frequent manual monitoring.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting Guidelines
Routine maintenance is essential to ensure the Aries system continues to operate efficiently and delivers high-purity water. The manufacturer recommends daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning and inspection tasks to identify and address potential issues before they impact performance.
Common maintenance tasks include:
- Checking and replacing resin cartridges as needed
- Inspecting and cleaning the submicron filter
- Testing the supply water TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) to ensure proper pretreatment
- Performing a silt density test to assess colloidal content in the water supply
- Verifying that all electrical connections are secure and grounded
- Ensuring that isolation valves and pressure gauges are functioning correctly
If the system displays an alert related to water purity, users should check for improperly seated resin cartridges or exhausted resin. Replacing the cartridges with fresh ones or adjusting the pretreatment process may be necessary to restore optimal performance.
Troubleshooting common issues:
- Low water purity: Ensure the supply water is properly treated, and test TDS. Replace resin cartridges if necessary.
- Resin cartridges exhaust quickly: The supply water may require additional pretreatment. Test TDS and consider adding a pretreatment system.
- Submicron filter plugs rapidly: Perform a silt density test. If the result is above 1, additional pretreatment is required.
- UV lamp failure: Ensure all power is removed before accessing the UV panel. Wear gloves when handling the UV bulb to protect the integrity of the lamp.
Warranty and Support Information
The Aries High Purity Water System comes with a one-year warranty from the date of purchase, provided the system is registered with the manufacturer. If any component fails to function normally within the first year, the unit should be returned to the factory for repair or replacement at no charge, provided the failure is due to defects in materials or workmanship. A service charge may be applied for repairs or diagnostics not covered by the warranty.
The warranty does not cover products that have been subject to misuse, neglect, accident, or use in violation of operating instructions. It also does not extend to units that have been altered or repaired by anyone other than Aries Filterworks or ResinTech, Inc.
For support, users should contact the manufacturer directly using the contact information provided during registration. Technical documentation and firmware updates are available through the official website at www.ariesfilterworks.com.
Conclusion
The Aries High Purity Water System is a versatile and reliable solution for laboratories requiring ultra-pure water for sensitive applications. With its modular design, automatic recirculation, and optional UV purification, the system offers a high degree of customization to meet the specific needs of different laboratory environments. Installation and operation require adherence to strict safety protocols and the use of appropriate tools and components. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting are essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
By following the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation, operation, and maintenance, users can maximize the system’s efficiency and ensure that it continues to deliver high-purity water for years to come.