The construction of a catchment system in rivers, lakes or reservoirs that serve to obtain water and supply it continuously to a community, is a way to guarantee the supply of drinking water after its adequate treatment or for irrigation. In addition, these systems contribute to the control of floods and even surface water overflows.

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Water supply systems require a drinking water purification plant where water purification is carried out. The objective of a WWTP is to treat the raw water collected so that it is suitable for human consumption.

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Water purification is carried out through a series of chained processes, depending on the characteristics of the water to be treated, and which can be grouped according to their physical-chemical typology:

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• Pre-oxidation: An oxidizing chemical agent is introduced that is capable of removing any matter that can be oxidized, both organic and inorganic.

• Coagulation and flocculation: Grouping of the particles responsible for the color and turbidity of water.

• Decantation: Through the action of gravity, the particles of the previous process are deposited at the bottom, forming a sludge or sludge that is extracted to be treated later.

• Filtration: Process of retention of particles that could not be extracted in the previous process by passing the water through filters.

• Neutralization: The acidity of the water is adjusted by chemical reagents.

• Final disinfection: Other reagents, usually chlorine and ammonia, are added to eliminate microorganisms that may have survived the previous processes and guarantee the quality of the water throughout the distribution network.

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The water collection system is one of the most important points to ensure the continuous supply of drinking water. Microtunnels are a versatile solution for any type of water collection regardless of the geological, hydrological and topographic characteristics of the area.