What is your water filtration Actually doing?

Ever wondered if your filtration plant is working effectively? Our cost effective particle analysis service can provide some answers.

A client recently approached us regarding their sand filtration. They had seen an increase in downstream strainer blockages upfront of their machines which were causing untimely shutdowns.

We undertook particle size analysis using laser diffraction of the water quality before and after the sand filter and found the media was not removing anything.

The analysis looks at the size of the particles and counts them, so is able to give a histogram showing the spread of particles across the different sizes. We can then compare the pre/post filtration histograms to review performance across the filter. In the below example there is hardly any change demonstrating that the filter is not removing any of the particles.

Filtration specification is important before installation - ongoing checks help to understand if it is still effective.

Pre and Post Filter samples

Evidence that the filter is ineffective for the particles in the water

By carrying out this analysis we were able to advise the client on the new media they needed but also more importantly we were able to quantify how many particles would be able to pass through the media due to their small size. This has allowed us to size new filtration plant correctly and to improve the filtered water quality across site. Regular testing once a year provides an insight into filter performance and allows us to deal with inadequate filtering before it stars impacting production.

Particle analysis can also be useful when looking to install reverse osmosis plants. Particles in the Feedwater can lead to silting and membrane failure so it’s important to know whether additional protection is needed before you install reverse osmosis plants.

Liam Adams