What is the Filtration Material in the Water Treatment Process? Well, it’s a complex question.
With a complicated answer. However, that’s what we do; we’ll explin the filtration material in the water treatment process in common sense terms. Then, we’ll make sure you understand what needs to happen to create clean, pure water.
Like many, you may have found yourself wondering, “What is the filtration material in the water treatment process? These questions are common when glancing at the different sized tanks and piping in your basement. I mean, “what the heck is in my water softener or filter? And how/why does it work?” Well, you are not alone. What makes filtration systems work? How does the softening and conditioning process work in a water softener? Why do we choose the filtration systems that we do?
Most importantly, it’s important to understand thateach contaminant issue has a particular chemical reaction required to solve the problem. In short, there is no one solution for all water problems. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate your water with a proper water test regularly.
The First Step, A Water Test
The first step in determining what type of material or ‘media’ to use in a filtration system begins with a water test. After that we’ll know which contaminants to deal with, we can begin our design and selection process. FONTUS offers a free immediate-response water test; it’s that important.
Common Water Filtration Medias
Water softening
In water softeners, we use an ion exchange resin. The resin is a soft, almost gel-like, spherical media that feels similar to fish eggs or BB’s. Only much, much smaller. Negatively charged Cation Resin is ideal for softening water. Hard water naturally has a lot of magnesium and calcium, positively charged minerals. When hard water flows through a negatively charged cation resin, it attracts the positively charged minerals. Exchanging positively charged minerals (calcium and magnesium) with sodium ions is how a water softener works. A regeneration cycle will “pick up and store” the positively charged sodium ions.
Tannins/Arsenic/Uranium
To mitigate these nasty contaminants, we use another type of resin called Anion resin. The anion resin is similar to softener resin in shape; however, this resin’s main difference is it carries a positive charge and attracting negatively charged ions. Tannins/Arsenic/Uranium contaminants are negatively charged, making these Anion resins ideal for removal.
Other Types of Media
Traditional mechanical filtration media physically trap or collect different types of contaminants, such as carbon and Filter-Ag. Carbon is a fine, almost powder-like version of charcoal and classically known to solve odor and chlorine issues. Filter-Ag is a naturally occurring ore with excellent filtration properties. It is similar to very fine sand or stone dust in texture, recommended for heavy sediment and iron filtration.
Another form of media we use a lot right here in Maine is acid-neutralizing media. Low pH in Maines’ wells and groundwater sources are common. Remember back to high school chemistry; the lower the number, the higher the acidity. Acid neutralizing media are usually calcium or magnesium-based. Alkalinity is added when water comes in contact with the media, raising the pH back to or closer to a neutral 7.
Cartridges
Many types of cartridge filters are used and vary greatly depending on the intended use. The most common cartridge filter are sediment filters. Sediment filters are often spiral wound filters and look similar to a roll of yarn. Sediment filter examples include a pleated filter made from a paper material or a melt-blown filter cartridge. These cartridge filters are essentially thousands and thousands of micro or nano-fibers stacked layer by layer. The different types of cartridge filters have specific uses and characteristics. For example, two variables we consider are the flow rate and the contaminant’s physical size to be captured. This product flexibility allows us to match the best filter for the application. Finally, impurities such as arsenic will require specialty cartridges.
It’s all in the water correction
Evaluating your water with a proper water test is the first step. FONTUS offers a free immediate-response water test. Schedule your free water test with a water treatment specialist by calling (207) 856-0066 or email info@fontush2o.com.
Next, we will explain the correct filter (and its media) required to create the right chemical reaction and neutralizing your water problem.
What is a free immediate-response water test?
An immediate-response water test is a test done onsite, getting your results immediately. This test allows us to determine if iron, manganese, hardness, total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, alkalinity, salinity, copper present in your water. Before we leave, you’ll have your questions answered. And most importantly, a plan in hand to make sure your water is clean and pure.
You Can Trust FONTUS Water Treatment To Stay by Your Side
At FONTUS, we’re passionate about water purity. We pride ourselves on being reliable, hassle-free, and always available. For example, as the environment and your water change, we’re here to help evaluate your water. Above all, through testing, installation, and maintenance, you can trust FONTUS to ensure clean, pure water for your home or office.
FONTUS Water Treatment
The expert team at FONTUS Water Treatment is based in Westbrook Maine and services Cumberland and York counties. We can help correct your home or business water supply to provide safe and healthy water for your family and/or employees.