Counter-current systems
The counter-current system - also known as a counter-swim system - is based on the following principle: a powerful nozzle creates such a strong current that you can swim against this water resistance. The installation of the counter swimming systems is basically possible in pools of all types and sizes. The system can be used in swimming pools based on chlorine as well as salt water.
The use of a counter-current system is popular with adults and children alike for several reasons:
The obvious reason for installing a counter-current system is if you are looking for an efficient swimming opportunity in your own garden. Even with large swimming pools, you will reach the respective end relatively quickly and have to turn around permanently. By means of the electricity generated, you swim on the spot, even with the greatest effort. This contributes to the efficiency of endurance swimming training. If the current does not seem powerful enough, you can increase it by turning the nozzle.
How does a countercurrent system work?
The use of a counter-current system causes waves to form in the pool. This offers both children and adults an additional swimming pleasure.
The water jet generated by the powerful nozzle can also be used for massage. In this case, a massage hose can also be connected to massage specific parts of the body and tension. The massage hose is plugged directly into the nozzle. The slot of the hose must match the spigot inside the fitting. The hose is easily fixed by turning it slightly to the right. Pay attention to your health when doing this: the water jet produced can be so strong that it can cause injuries.
By turning the air regulator of the counter-current system, you can cause the air to be mixed with the water jet by the Venturi effect. The Venturi effect describes the fact that adding air creates a negative pressure and water turbulence. The water jet enriched with air is gentler and results in the generated electricity being more gentle. The air regulator also functions as a non-return valve when a massage hose is connected to the counter-current system.
A counter-current system can be used for both larger and smaller pools. For pools with an underground installation, it is recommended that the installation kit for a counter-current system be fitted during construction work. The system can be installed at any time, even retrospectively. With the Styrofoam pool complete sets offered by Steinbach, an installation kit for the counter-current system is possible or is already partly included in the set. However, if you decide to purchase a counter current system at a later date, this is not a problem either.
Operation of the counter-current system
All operating elements can be found on the fitting of the counter-current system. The counter-current system is operated via a so-called pneumatic switch and not via a current switch.
The pneumatic switch is used to switch the system on and off at the touch of a finger. You can adjust the nozzle manually: Both the direction of the jet and the strength of the current to be generated can be regulated according to your wishes. By turning the nozzle you can change the strength of the water jet.
Counter-current system at Steinbach:
Counter-current system at Steinbach
At Steinbach the counter-current system set Marlin for concrete and foil pools is available in two different thicknesses.
The technical data are as follows:
- 230 V, 2,20 kW, 750 l/min
- 400 V, 3,30 kW, 1000 l/min
Included in delivery are the required flange set and piping material.
Please note that the installation kit is not included in the scope of delivery of the Marlin counterflow system set.
The installation kit is already included in some polystyrene pool complete sets from Steinbach. For further information about these, please read on at Styrofoam complete sets. The installation kit for the Marlin countercurrent system can be installed in concrete pools, foil pools and prefabricated pools. Please note that you need the correct accessories - flange and seals - for foil pools and prefabricated pools.
Installation of the Marlin counter-current system
The installation of the counter-current system can be carried out in self-assembly. However, the connection of the electrical cables must be carried out by a qualified person. Please note the following hints and tips:
The centre of the nozzle of the counter-current system should be about 30 cm below the water level. This is particularly necessary as the pump is not self-priming. The pump should be installed in such a way that you have good access to it for any maintenance work or checks. Furthermore, when installing the pump, a well-ventilated place is required to avoid the formation of condensation water and to ensure that the motor is cooled. To avoid possible flooding in the pump room, a water drain with a diameter of about 100 mm with a non-return valve must be provided. The non-return valve allows the water to flow in one direction only. / As the pump is not self-priming and to avoid excessive pressure losses in the suction pipe, a distance of 20 metres should not be exceeded.
The pipes included in the delivery should be installed as straight and horizontal as possible with curves - no angles are suitable here. The switch box of the counter-current system must be installed in a dry room and the distance to the pneumatic push-button, which is located on the fitting, should also not exceed 20 metres. Care must be taken to ensure that the pneumatic hose is laid without kinks. Depending on the distance, the sensitivity of the pneumatic switch must be adjusted on the regulating screw.
Starting up the counter-current system
The counter-current system can be started up when the water level is about 30 cm above the centre of the nozzle. The pump must not run dry, i.e. without water, otherwise the pump may be seriously damaged. If suction and pressure pipes are present, their valves must be opened.
Commissioning is done by simply pressing the pneumatic switch.
Check the regulation of the air/water mixture. Check the flow regulation: turn the nozzle completely closed and check the tightness of the system. Check the adjustability of the nozzle.
Wintering
If the pump is not in operation for some time, it must be drained. The valves of the suction and pressure pipes must be closed. Then open the drain screw on the pump housing. Please follow the instructions in the installation and operating instructions.