The Potable Water System in Skylab

Description of the medical requirements, development, system operation, and in-flight performance of the Skylab potable water system. Emphasized is the description of the unique features involving new space-flight concepts, procedures, and design incorporated in Skylab. The water supplied to the three Skylab missions was preloaded in stainless-steel tanks. These tanks were fitted with positive expulsion stainless-steel bellows. In-flight iodination of the water, for bacterial control, was accomplished as required. An in-flight bactericide monitor was used periodically to determine the level of bactericide in the water. Prior to the delivery of the water to the crewmen for consumption, the water was passed through a cation exchange resin for metallic ion removal and then heated for food reconstitution or chilled for drinking.