How a quartz cold corona ozone generator works
Short answer: a corona discharge generator passes oxygen through a high voltage electric field, which splits some oxygen molecules so they recombine as ozone. Our generators do this inside a quartz glass cold corona tube that does not touch metal and does not build up significant heat.
Two common ways to make ozone
- Corona discharge (CD): an electric discharge field, a small scale version of lightning, turns oxygen into ozone.
- Ultraviolet (UV): ultraviolet light, like the sun’s UV rays, turns oxygen into ozone.
Ozone can also be made by electrolytic and chemical reactions. Our generators use corona discharge.
What happens inside the cell
Oxygen flows through the cell. The electric field splits some oxygen molecules (O2) into single atoms, which join other oxygen molecules to form ozone (O3). The gas leaving the cell is a mix of oxygen and ozone, and its concentration is what the µg/ml figure measures.
Why quartz glass and “cold” corona
The WPS-100 and WPS-400 use a unique quartz glass cold corona tube that does not come in contact with metal and will not generate a significant amount of heat. The WPS-100 makes ozone by Silent Pulse Injection Cold Corona Discharge. The WPS-120 uses a high quality quartz cell for ultra pure and ultra stable ozone output, and is tested to be free of contaminants and byproducts.
Keeping the ozone away from metal and heat matters because ozone is a strong oxidizer, and heat speeds up its breakdown back into oxygen. A cell built this way is designed to give clean, stable output and to last for years without maintenance.
Why the rest of the build matters too
- Ozone resistant materials. The WPS-120 is made with components that are A-rated against ozone degradation.
- Air tight connections. Luer locks on the WPS-100 and 316 stainless steel luer locks on the WPS-120.
- Silicone tubing. Rated A against ozone, so it does not break down in use.
Questions we get asked
Does a cold corona generator need maintenance?
Our WPS-100 and WPS-400 are built to last for years without any maintenance. Keep tubing and connections in good condition.
Is corona discharge used in water treatment?
Yes. Large systems pass dry, clean air through a high voltage corona discharge to make ozone for treating water.
A note on safety
Ozone is a strong oxidizer and it is harmful to breathe. Run your generator in a well ventilated room, keep the ozone inside tubing and closed containers, never breathe it directly, and follow the instructions that come with your unit.