Use of heat pumps and current control to preserve water quality in reservoirs

Abstract

The authors advocate a current control system to enhance water quality in reservoirs via a combination of dispersed aeration and selective inflow/discharge facilities. Although from spring to autumn the temperature in the surface layer of the reservoir is usually higher than that of inflowing river water, it may drop lower during the rainy season, in cold summers or directly after major flooding. When this happens, turbulent river water heavy in nutrient salts enters the reservoir surface layer, leading to potential eutrophication and long-term turbidity.
This report describes the Water Temperature Control System, designed to enhance water quality in reservoirs by addressing these specific problems. This system regulates the vertical temperature distribution in the reservoir and the temperature of inflowing river water using heat pumps.