Evaluation of Iron Release Models for Water Distribution Systems

Recent efforts have led to the development of a number of models that predict the occurrence of iron release and subsequent red water formation in water distribution systems. The authors analyze these recently developed iron release models. The factors influencing iron release are derived from water chemistry, biological processes, composition of pipe scale, and hydraulic flow characteristics within the pipe. Although a variety of factors lead to iron release, there is no consensus as to the quantitative extent that each factor contributes. This lack of consensus is made evident when comparing each of the iron release models. Although each model may be beneficial for simulating certain mechanisms of iron release, no single model has been developed that provides a comprehensive portrayal of iron release phenomena.