Industrial iron removal filter About
Primary Filter Media Options
- Birm: Acts as an insoluble catalyst to enhance the reaction between dissolved oxygen and iron. It requires no chemical regeneration but needs water with a pH above 6.8 and a high dissolved oxygen level.
- Manganese Greensand: Uses a coating of manganese oxide to oxidize and trap iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide. It requires potassium permanganate regeneration to restore its oxidizing capacity.
- Katalox Light: A high-purity zeolite media coated with manganese dioxide. It provides heavy-duty oxidation, removes iron up to 30 parts per million (ppm), and features a long lifespan.
- Greensand Plus: An upgraded version of classic greensand that uses a durable silica sand core. It withstands higher differential pressures and works well with continuous chlorine dosing.
2. Core Technical Specifications
- Iron Removal Capacity: Standard systems efficiently treat dissolved iron levels ranging from 1 ppm to 15+ ppm.
- Operating pH Range: Most media varieties require an incoming water pH of 6.8 to 8.5 to achieve optimal oxidation.
- Flow Rates: Residential units support 5 to 15 gallons per minute (gpm), while industrial configurations handle 50 to 500+ gpm.
- Backwash Flow Requirement: Typically requires 10 to 12 gpm per square foot of bed area to properly expand the media and flush trapped iron.
3. Equipment & Valve Configuration
- Control Valve: Automated digital controllers handle scheduled backwashes based on time clock cycles or flow volume.
- Pressure Vessel: Constructed from Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) or fiberglass-wrapped polyethylene to prevent corrosion.
- Distribution System: Features a top diffuser and a bottom hub-and-lateral collector screen to prevent media migration during backwash.
4. Selection Criteria Matrix
| Parameter |
Birm Media |
Manganese Greensand |
Katalox Light |
| Max Iron Level |
Up to 5 ppm |
Up to 15 ppm |
Up to 30 ppm |
| Regenerant Needed |
None (Air injection optional) |
Potassium Permanganate |
None (Chlorine optional) |
| Minimum pH |
6.8 |
6.2 |
5.8 |
| Service Flow Rate |
3.55.0 gpm/sq.ft. |
3.05.0 gpm/sq.ft. |
4.08.0 gpm/sq.ft. |
If you are designing or purchasing a system, could you tell me:
- The iron concentration in your water analysis report (in ppm or mg/L)?
- Your required water flow rate or application (e.g., home use, commercial, or irrigation)?
- The pH level of the raw water?