Where do crystals form?
Struvite crystals tend to form where the water flow is turbulent, such as around pipe fittings, valves and pumps. Metal pipe usually accumulates crystals faster than smooth plastic pipe. Metal surfaces provide a more favorable condition for crystal formation. Careful pump and pipe sizing can limit turbulence in the recycle system and therefore, limit crystal formation. Some important factors include: • Carefully sizing pump in relation to the piping system. Large pumps deliver high flow velocities and more turbulence. • Locating the pump as close to the high water level of the lagoon as possible. This will minimize the length of the suction pipe. • Sizing the suction pipe large enough to prevent cavitation. • Sizing the system pipes to maintain flow velocities from 3 to 5 feet per second. • Keeping the pipes as straight as possible with only gentle turns. Sharp bends can cause turbulence in the pipe.
