fa q

f r e q uently asked questions.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

General Information................................................................................................................................................. 3
What makes the Trunz Water Systems unique? ................................................................................................. 3
How do the Trunz Water Systems work? ............................................................................................................ 3
How reliable are the Trunz Water Systems? ....................................................................................................... 3
Who can benefit from using a Trunz Water System? .......................................................................................... 3
What kind of weather conditions can the Trunz Water Systems stand?.............................................................. 3
How much do the Trunz Water Systems cost?.................................................................................................... 3
What are the units made of? ............................................................................................................................... 3
How is distribution or storage of product water possible?.................................................................................... 3
What about relocation of the units? ..................................................................................................................... 4
Do Trunz Water Systems come with warranty?................................................................................................... 4
What is the difference between a TWS 100, TWS 200 and TWS 300?............................................................... 4
What is the difference between a TSB 001 and TSB 002? ................................................................................. 4
How much water do human need per day? ......................................................................................................... 4
Water production ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
What is the capacity? .......................................................................................................................................... 4
What affects the amount of water produced? ...................................................................................................... 5
What is the minimum pressure for backflushing of the pre-filters? ...................................................................... 5
What is the minimum pressure for the Ultrafiltration?.......................................................................................... 5
What is the pressure of the product water? ......................................................................................................... 5
Is there any pressure metering within the unit? ................................................................................................... 5
How does the automatic backflushing cycle start? .............................................................................................. 5
Are there any chemicals required to treat the water? .......................................................................................... 5
Raw water and product water quality ...................................................................................................................... 5
What kind of chemicals can the Trunz Water Systems remove?......................................................................... 5
Can the Trunz Water Systems remove Arsenic (As)? ......................................................................................... 5
Can the Trunz Water Systems remove salt? ....................................................................................................... 5
Can the Trunz Water Systems treat brackish water? .......................................................................................... 5
What is the maximum turbidity to treat water with a Trunz Water System?......................................................... 6
What are the maximum inlet parameters for the systems (particle size, turbidity, iron, manganese, pH,
sulphates, ammonia, chlorides and chlorine)? .................................................................................................... 6
What is the product water quality?....................................................................................................................... 6
Can Trunz Water Systems treat grey water?....................................................................................................... 6
How can Trunz Water Systems guarantee safe drinking water? ......................................................................... 6
Filtration Technologies ............................................................................................................................................ 6
What is Ultrafiltration? ......................................................................................................................................... 6
What is Reverse Osmosis? ................................................................................................................................. 6
What is an activated carbon filter?....................................................................................................................... 6
What is brackish water? ...................................................................................................................................... 6
What is the range of ppm in sea water? .............................................................................................................. 7
What is TDS? ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
What is PPM?...................................................................................................................................................... 7
Certified according to ISO 9001 / 14001 / EN 15085 / EN 3834

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What is grey water?............................................................................................................................................. 7

Pumping .................................................................................................................................................................. 7
How much water delivers the pump?................................................................................................................... 7
What is the maximum depth for water pumping? ................................................................................................ 7
If we are using seawater, how much higher than the water level can the unit be placed and still be within the
capabilities of the borehole pump?...................................................................................................................... 7
Power supply........................................................................................................................................................... 7
How much power is required to operate the unit? ............................................................................................... 7
Is it possible to run the Trunz Water Systems with grid power or a generator?................................................... 7
What is the advantage of powering a water treatment unit by solar or wind energy?.......................................... 8
How many hours of sun are necessary to operate the Trunz Water Systems with solar power? ........................ 8
How much power does the wind generator provide?........................................................................................... 8
What is the tracking system for?.......................................................................................................................... 8
What if the weather conditions do not allow operation of the unit by renewable energy?.................................... 8
Monitoring / Metering............................................................................................................................................... 8
What does the monitoring option provide? .......................................................................................................... 8
Maintenance............................................................................................................................................................ 9
What kind of maintenance do the Trunz Water Systems require?....................................................................... 9
Do the units require maintenance by skilled person? .......................................................................................... 9
How long does a Trunz Water System last?........................................................................................................ 9
Which filter need replacement? ........................................................................................................................... 9

Version January 2011

Please note:
This FAQ document provides general information only, without any guarantee. The buyer of our products is
responsible and liable that the Trunz Water Systems products apply to the necessary standards in the country of
installation/destination.

Certified according to ISO 9001 / 14001 / EN 15085 / EN 3834

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General Information
What makes the Trunz Water Systems unique?
exceptionally energy efficient
independent thanks to solar and or/wind power
sustainable solution (environmentally friendly & long-lasting)
low operation and maintenance costs
no ongoing fuel costs
compact and complete system = easy to install
automatic back-flushing filters = easy to maintain
high flexibility thanks to modular concept
How do the Trunz Water Systems work?
The Trunz Water Systems are a compact system to treat contaminated water from almost any water source with
well-known and established filtration technologies such as Ultrafiltration or Reverse Osmosis. All of the Trunz
Water Systems are based on 24 VDC and can be powered by renewable energy.
How reliable are the Trunz Water Systems?
All of the Trunz Water Systems units are equipped with high quality material and components. Up to now, more
than 450 units are installed worldwide and proof the function of the system.
Who can benefit from using a Trunz Water System?
Mainly people who are living in remote areas without infrastructure (no water or power service). Further, the
Trunz Water Systems are an affordable solution for water shop concepts, for example in city districts or
decentralised solutions in remote areas.
What kind of weather conditions can the Trunz Water Systems stand?
The Trunz Water Systems are built to operate under harsh climate conditions. We have more than 450 units in
operation in over 35 countries and they all operate under different conditions; for example in the desert (high air
temperature and dust) as well as in the jungle (high humidity).
For specific information to maximum air or water temperature please see the different product factsheets or
contact us.
How much do the Trunz Water Systems cost?
Depending on the type of unit, the required amount of water, the amount of power supply and additional features,
the price can vary significantly. In order to get a first impression on the price, please see our drinking water cost
overview under http://www.trunzwatersystems.com/Downloads.403.0.html.
What are the units made of?
The units are made of anodised aluminium and stainless steel V2A or a powder coated cabinet. Further to this,
we provide our units assembled in standardised sea freight containers. The units are specially designed and
manufactured to work outdoor and under harsh weather conditions. However, a protection (a roof or indoor
installation) can extend the life time of the unit.
How is distribution or storage of product water possible?
We recommend installing a tank after the treatment process and deploying the water from this tank to the enduser (household, tap, water shop). In case the water remains in the storage tank for more than 1 day we
recommend installing a UV-lamp at the outlet of the tank. This is an efficient and low price solution which ensures
safe drinking water.

Certified according to ISO 9001 / 14001 / EN 15085 / EN 3834

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What about relocation of the units?

Three of our units are specially designed for mobile application (TWS 200, TBS 200 and TSS 200), they can
easily be relocated. We recommend to install the units on a trailer or a 4-wheel drive in order to be even more
flexible. The mobile units come complete and are ready for deployment no installation or special gear is
required. The containerised solutions are mobile too all containers are standard sea freight containers.
Do Trunz Water Systems come with warranty?
Yes, we provide detailed information to the different components warranty within our quotations.
We use high quality materials and components in order to ensure operation of the units under harsh conditions.
The life time of a unit depends on the local situation and is affected through weather conditions, indoor or outdoor
application, regular maintenance etc. The life time of the system can be extended with regular maintenance and
when the unit is protected.
What is the difference between a TWS 100, TWS 200 and TWS 300?
The number 100, 200 or 300 indicates the generation. TWS 300 is the next generation after the TWS 200 resp.
TWS 100 (not built anymore).
What is the difference between a TSB 001 and TSB 002?
Same as above.
How much water do human need per day?
In order to ensure our basic needs, every individual needs approx. 2 5 litres for drinking and food and 20 litres
for hygiene - clean water, free from harmful contaminants each and every day. Trunz Water Systems makes a
difference between drinking water and water for other purpose such as washing etc. Our units are specially
designed to supply the needs for drinking water and preparation of food.

Water production
What is the capacity?
Basically, the capacity depends on the type of unit. Please find below the range
Ultrafiltration (UF, soft water)
TWU 003
1200 l/h
TWB 003
1200 l/h
TWS 300
1200 l/h
TWC
5 m3/h

RO-system (brackish water)

TBB 002
650 l/h
TBS 200
650 l/h
TBL 001
500 l/h
TBC*
1.5 m3/h

RO-system (sea water)

TWU 010
60 l/h
TSB 002
250 l/h
TSS 200
250 l/h
TSC*
600 l/h

* Container is under construction

Certified according to ISO 9001 / 14001 / EN 15085 / EN 3834

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What affects the amount of water produced?

The amount of water which can be treated depends mainly on the following issues:
1) Pump: the units are limited by the feed pump.
2) Type of unit (technology): with an Ultrafiltration membrane for treatment of contaminated soft water the
units are able to treat up to 1000 l/h. With an RO-system for desalination and treatment of brackish
water the units are able to treat between 240 650 l/h.
3) Water quality: depending on the incoming water quality the unit can treat the maximum or less.
4) Power availability: in case of bad weather conditions the units require external power supply for further
operation. Availability of power affects the daily water production.
What is the minimum pressure for backflushing of the pre-filters?
Approx. 4 bar
What is the minimum pressure for the Ultrafiltration?
Approx. 2 bar
What is the pressure of the product water?
Approx. 3 4 bar, depending on the unit and contamination.
Is there any pressure metering within the unit?
Yes, there are several pressure meters within the unit. For more information, please see our function diagram.
How does the automatic backflushing cycle start?
Its a pressure difference measurement that automatically starts the back-flushing.
Are there any chemicals required to treat the water?
No, the water treatment and desalination with the Trunz Water Systems works completely without chemicals.
From time to time, we recommend to clean the membranes (Ultrafiltration, RO-system) with a chemical.

Raw water and product water quality

What kind of chemicals can the Trunz Water Systems remove?
With the RO-System we have a removing rate for most chemicals up to 98%; With the Ultrafiltration-System we
can remove particles (no dissolved solids) for example organic contamination such as virus and bacteria up to
99,9999%.
Can the Trunz Water Systems remove Arsenic (As)?
Yes, we can remove Arsenic with an RO-system (TSS 200, TBS 200, TSB 002, TBB 002, TWU 010, TBL 001,
TSC, TBC). The level of Arsenic can be reduced significantly. However, for more precise information we need a
water analysis.
Can the Trunz Water Systems remove salt?
Yes, we can remove salt with an RO-system (TSS 200, TBS 200, TSB 002, TBB 002, TWU 010, TBL 001, TSC,
TBC). The level of salt can be reduced significantly under the WHO level. For more precise information we need
a water analysis.
Can the Trunz Water Systems treat brackish water?
Yes, we can treat brackish water with an RO-system (TBS 200, TBB 002, TWU 010, TBL 001, TBC). For more
precise information we need a water analysis.

Certified according to ISO 9001 / 14001 / EN 15085 / EN 3834

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What is the maximum turbidity to treat water with a Trunz Water System?
In case of very high turbidity, we recommend to add a pump protection filter for example in case of muddy rivers,
disaster relief operations etc.
What are the maximum inlet parameters for the systems (particle size, turbidity, iron, manganese, pH,
sulphates, ammonia, chlorides and chlorine)?
Depending on the raw water situation, Trunz Water Systems will provide you with a solution to reduce the
contamination to a level below the WHO regulations. In case of high turbidity, we will prepare a solution that
removes larger particles before the water enters the unit.
What is the product water quality?
Ultrafiltration:
99,9999 % free of virus and bacteria
RO-systems:
pure, clean and potable drinking water
Can Trunz Water Systems treat grey water?
No not directly, pre-treatment is required.
How can Trunz Water Systems guarantee safe drinking water?
Trunz Water Systems can not guarantee safe drinking water as such. We provide the technical equipment to treat
contaminated water and remove contamination from raw water. Regular measurement of the product water
however remains in the responsibility of the end-user.

Filtration Technologies
What is Ultrafiltration?
The Ultrafiltration membrane removes organic contaminants, viruses, bacteria and cysts, etc. down to a size of
0.04 micron without requiring toxic chemical treatment.
Ultrafiltration works through a mechanical procedure. Raw water is filtered under pressure (1 5 bar) through a
high-technology hollow fibre membrane. This process retains the natural minerals in the source water. Product
water is 99,9999 % free of bacteria, virus and cysts.
What is Reverse Osmosis?
The Reverse Osmosis technology removes all contamination such as dissolved solids (salt, inorganic
contamination), virus, bacteria and cysts without requiring toxic chemical treatment.
Reverse osmosis is a water purification process in which water is forced by high pressure through a semipermeable membrane. In normal osmosis, water flows from a less concentrated solution through a semipermeable membrane to a more concentrated solution. Reverse osmosis uses pressure to reverse normal
osmotic flow. Water flows from a more concentrated solution through a semi-permeable membrane to a less
concentrated solution. Minerals are filtered out.
What is an activated carbon filter?
In combination with our filtration system, the activated carbon filter removes smell and odour from the water. The
filter should be removed on a regular basis, approx. every 2 - 3 month. This is the only consumable part within the
unit.
What is brackish water?
Brackish water is either slightly salty or contaminated with dissolved solids and therefore not drinkable for human.
Brackish water is metered with a TDS level which ranges from 1000 approx. 15000 TDS.

Certified according to ISO 9001 / 14001 / EN 15085 / EN 3834

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What is the range of ppm in sea water?

Sea water ranges between 15000 and 48000 ppm of total dissolved solids.
Trunz specially designed units for desalination please see our factsheets.
What is TDS?
TOTAL DISSOLVED SOLIDS: dissolved solids, inorganic salts and small amounts of organic matter present in
solution in water. The principal constituents are usually calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium cations and
carbonate, hydrogen carbonate, chloride, sulphate, and nitrate anions. TDS in water may affect its taste. The
palatability of drinking water has been rated in relation to its TDS level as follows: excellent (less than 300
mg/litre), good (between 300 and 600 mg/litre), fair (between 600 and 900 mg/litre), poor (between 900 and 1200
mg/litre), and unacceptable greater than 1200 mg/litre.
What is PPM?
PPM = parts per million is a measurement for water quality or salinity
What is grey water?
Any water that has been used in the home, except water from toilets, is called grey water. Dish, shower, sink, and
laundry water comprise 50-80% of residential "waste" water. This may be reused for other purposes. The Trunz
Water Systems are not made for treatment of grey water.

Pumping
How much water delivers the pump?
The pump delivers up to 1000 litres of water per hour. However, this amount can be decreased if required. The
pump is fitted with a level switch.
We also provide pumps for larger quantities. Please contact us for further information.
What is the maximum depth for water pumping?
Our standard tubing package includes 20 meter of hose. In case of deeper wells or boreholes, other pumping
equipment is available. Please ask us for more detailed information.
If we are using seawater, how much higher than the water level can the unit be placed and still be within
the capabilities of the borehole pump?
In our standard configuration, the unit should be placed max. 20 m from the level of the raw water source. Please
note that we can provide other solutions for higher altitude or distance to the unit.

Power supply
How much power is required to operate the unit?
The power consumption depends on the type of unit, please see our factsheets. Trunz Water Systems are
exceptionally energy efficient which is a major advantage for operation by renewable energy.
Is it possible to run the Trunz Water Systems with grid power or a generator?
Yes. All units are operating 24 VDC, however, an additional inverter can be delivered within the unit, if this is not
already integrated.

Certified according to ISO 9001 / 14001 / EN 15085 / EN 3834

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What is the advantage of powering a water treatment unit by solar or wind energy?
There are many advantages to operate the Trunz Water Systems by solar and/or wind power:
The main benefit is the independent operation of the unit in areas without an existing infrastructure or
with many breakdowns of the power supply.
No maintenance required.
Solar panels and wind generators are long lasting goods that have been field proven.
Using environmentally friendly solar and/or wind power is an active approach towards climate protection
The use of solar power is often supported by government and financial benefits are granted in many
countries.
How many hours of sun are necessary to operate the Trunz Water Systems with solar power?
The radiation and strength of the sun is different at each location. In order to operate the units for approx. 8 - 10
hours a day, approx. 5 hours of direct sun are required. Please check your local sun radiation.
For 24 hours operation by solar power only, we provide the TSPC (Trunz Solar Power Center) which is equipped
with 24 V batteries.
Please note: the power consumption and power supply depends on the type of unit.
How much power does the wind generator provide?
The wind generator has a capacity of max. 1000 W. In case of very good wind conditions, more wind generators
can be installed in series to provide even more power.
What is the tracking system for?
The tracking system follows the sun in 12 steps during the day. The efficiency of the solar panels can increase by
approx. 20 30 % when using a tracking system.
What if the weather conditions do not allow operation of the unit by renewable energy?
We recommend to install back-up batteries to support operation during short-term bad weather conditions. In
order to secure operation at all times, it is possible to install an emergency generator of approx. 2kVA.

Monitoring / Metering
What does the monitoring option provide?
The monitoring system provides information to several parameters of the system. This allows remote monitoring
of the system and gives indications to service or maintenance requirements.

real-time data anywhere and at anytime

distant controlling of units
provides data/indications to the conditions of the unit
easy access by internet login
client owned server connection available

Certified according to ISO 9001 / 14001 / EN 15085 / EN 3834

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Maintenance
What kind of maintenance do the Trunz Water Systems require?
Please see our maintenance overview http://www.trunzwatersystems.com/Downloads.403.0.html.
Do the units require maintenance by skilled person?
One of the main benefits of our units is their easy operation and maintenance. Nevertheless, it is necessary to
train local staff in order to secure an ongoing, regular maintenance service. All maintenance requirements dont
need engineering level knowledge but a basic technical understanding. We can offer to train your staff at our
production site in Switzerland (travel and accommodation costs up to the client) or at the location of installation.
You will find detailed information to the maintenance requirements for each unit in the document Maintenance of
the Trunz Water Systems. We experienced that one of the factors for smooth operation of the unit is a regular
maintenance/regular observation through a local person who feels responsible for the unit. The units should be
observed at least once a week.
How long does a Trunz Water System last?
The Trunz Water Systems are built to last in the long-term. However, the life time of a Trunz Water Systems is
depending on a regular and proper maintenance of the unit.
Which filter need replacement?
Pre-filtration:
Our units are equipped with a pre-filtration system which is automatically back-flushing. From time to time,
cleaning by hand of the mesh filter is recommended. These automatic cleaning cycles are a main benefit of the
Trunz Water Systems. Replacement of mesh filter only (not complete set) approx. every two years.
Ultrafiltration (UF):
All UF-units are automatically back-flushing. From time to time a chemical treatment of the membrane is
recommended. For longer storage of the unit, a membrane protection liquid is necessary.
RO-system:
same as Ultrafiltration
Activated carbon filter:
Regular replacement is necessary, depending on water quality. We recommend to replace the filter every 2 - 3
months. Exchange of filter by hand no special gear necessary.

Certified according to ISO 9001 / 14001 / EN 15085 / EN 3834

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