Generally, an electrolytic tank is as shown in the figure below, with a barrier membrane separating it into two sections, with electrodes which become positive and negative poles installed respectively in each section. (The barrier membrane allows the passage of the various ions in the water, but prevents the free passage of the water itself.)
Further, in continuous electrolytic water generators, the electrolytic tank is equipped with a water flow inlet and flow outlet so that alkaline ionized water and acidic water can be generated continuously as the water passes between both electrodes.
Alkaline ionized water apparatus include various supplemental functions in addition to this electrolytic technology. The following are classifications and brief descriptions of the supplemental functions:
| Water purification functions | Functions to remove odors, muddiness, etc. from tap water using filters such as activated charcoal |
|---|---|
| Display functions | Functions to display information about the water quality, etc. of the generated electrolytic water |
| Notification functions | Functions to provide notification that the apparatus is operating properly, etc. |
| Water supply/discharge control functions | Functions to control the supply of water to and discharge of water from the apparatus |
| Cleaning functions | Functions to clean the electrodes or filters inside the electrolytic tank, water pipes, etc. |
Among the supplemental functions, the water purification functions require replaceable parts (cartridges) for each company's product.
Alkaline ionized water apparatus are classified into the following two types according to their structure.
In both types, the basic structure of the electrolytic tank and the basic principle of electrolysis are the same, and for the type that is labeled with the medical device approval and certification number under the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law (products which have received approval and certification as household-use medical apparatus), the beneficial effects of the generated alkaline ionized water are all the same.
Examples of tank-type electrolytic water generators
In this type, alkaline ionized water is generated by putting raw water into the cathode tank and anode tank, adding a calcium compound to the cathode tank, and performing electrolysis for a fixed period of time. This was the main type of apparatus until the early 1970's.
Adjustment of the pH of the alkaline ionized water is performed by adjusting the electrolysis time, the added amount of calcium compound, etc.
This type is connected to the tap, etc. and alkaline ionized water is generated continuously by adding a calcium compound to the raw water before the electrolysis tank and performing electrolysis. This is currently the main type of apparatus. Adjustment of the pH of the alkaline ionized water is performed by changing the added amount of calcium compound or electrolysis voltage, or adjusting the flow of water.
Examples of continuous-type electrolytic water generators
Classifications A and B above can be further divided into the following types according to the connection method.
Includes types placed on the countertop in the kitchen or mounted on the wall.
Includes types connected to water purifiers under the sink in the kitchen. (Professional installation will be required.)
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