Types of Filtration Systems Used for Wastewater Applications

Water reuse in various applications involves a crucial step known as liquid filtration. This process is instrumental in eliminating pollutants, particles, and diverse media from the liquid, allowing it to be recirculated within the system. The significance of liquid filtration extends to wastewater treatment, where the reuse of filtered water can contribute to a reduction in water usage during production, overall waste output, and certain chemical consumption.

In certain industries, such as the power sector, discharged water often contains a notable concentration of dissolved solids. In contrast, industries like paper production may face wastewater with pulp concentrations reaching up to 1,000 ppm.

Wastewater treatment systems are tailored to meet industry-specific needs, influenced by incoming water conditions and the desired purity level for reuse. This blog aims to introduce the various filtration systems employed in wastewater treatment.

Particle Filtration

Particle filtration is a mechanism that separates solid particles from liquids using physical or mechanical techniques. In wastewater treatment, it serves as an initial purification stage for polluted wastewater by eliminating solid matter exceeding one micron in size.

Bag Filters

Bag filters, suitable for smaller applications, feature an elongated shape. Wastewater enters the bag, capturing solid particles and allowing only clean water to pass through the pores. Despite being a cost-effective option that minimizes waste accumulation, bag filters may lack the versatility found in other filter types.

Cartridge Filters

Cartridge filters use pleated fabric or screens to capture particles and chemicals. Available in depth and surface filter varieties, they trap particles either on the liquid's surface or within the media after the liquid has passed through.

Self-Cleaning Filters

Self-cleaning filters?stand out for their ability to clean themselves using backwashing or mechanical processes. These customizable filters are ideal for systems that cannot be shut down for regular cleaning.

Membrane Filtration

When particle filtration alone is insufficient for water reuse, membrane filtration comes into play. This method is employed when the highest water quality is necessary, and it involves processes such as reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, and microfiltration.

Reverse Osmosis

Recommended for reducing or eliminating dissolved solids, reverse osmosis provides the highest level of filtration, effectively removing contaminants that other systems may struggle with.?

Ultrafiltration and microfiltration

Ultrafiltration and microfiltration?are often employed as a preliminary step before reverse osmosis treatment. Ultrafiltration operates at low pressure, pushing water through the filter's small pores, typically ranging from 5 nanometers to 100 nanometers.

This filtration system effectively eliminates silt, high-molecular-weight organic substances, and even pathogens such as viruses. Additionally, chemicals can be introduced to the filter's backwash, providing further assistance in the purification process.

Selecting the Right Liquid Filtration System

Choosing the most appropriate filtration system involves considering micron size requirements, chemical resistance, efficiency levels, adaptability to media changes, and sterilization cycles. These factors collectively contribute to achieving an effective, lasting filtration outcome in diverse wastewater treatment applications.

Optimal utilization of the filtration system can be achieved by partnering with a professional team like Brother Filtration. It is essential to prioritize selecting a filtration partner who comprehends your industry and industrial processes when deciding on a wastewater filtration treatment solution.