Dual Media filter
❖Definition
❖Working Principle
• Filtration Process
• Backwash Process
❖Advantages
❖Applications
Definition
A dual media filter (DMF) is a type of water filtration system commonly used in water treatment plants.
It is designed to remove suspended solids, turbidity, and other impurities from water. The filter employs
two layers of different media, typically anthracite coal and sand, arranged in layers to optimize filtration
efficiency.
Filter media layers
Top Layer (Anthracite)
• Made of coarse anthracite coal.
• It has a lower density and a larger particle size than sand, allowing it to stay on top of the sand
layer.
• Responsible for removing larger particles and suspended solids
Bottom Layer (Sand)
• Finer and denser than anthracite.
• Captures smaller particles that pass through the anthracite layer.
Gravel Layer
• Supports the sand and anthracite layers.
• Prevents the sand and anthracite from escaping into the underdrain system
Underdrain System
• Collects the filtered water and evenly distributes backwash water during cleaning
cycles.
Filtration process
The filtration process of a dual media filter (DMF) is a systematic method to remove suspended solids,
turbidity, and impurities from water. It utilizes two layers of filtration media anthracite and sand to
enhance filtration efficiency by capturing particles of different sizes.
Steps in the Filtration Process
1. Water Inflow;
• Raw water enters the DMF through the inlet at the top of the filter.
• Water is evenly distributed over the surface of the filter media.
2. First Layer: Anthracite:
• The water first passes through the upper layer of anthracite coal, which has a coarser texture and
a lower density than sand.
• This layer removes larger suspended particles and reduces turbidity, ensuring that the subsequent
sand layer is not overloaded.
3. Second Layer: Sand:
• The water then flows through the sand layer, which is finer and denser than anthracite.
• The sand captures smaller particles that bypass the anthracite layer, ensuring thorough
filtration.
4. Gravel Support:
• Beneath the sand layer, a gravel layer supports the filter media and ensures even distribution of
water to the underdrain system.
• The gravel prevents sand from entering the underdrain.
5. Underdrain System:
• The filtered water is collected by the underdrain system located at the bottom of the filter.
• The system ensures uniform flow and minimizes pressure drop.
6. Clean Water Outlet:
• The clean water exits through the outlet, ready for further treatment or use.
Features of DMF Filtration
Layered Filtration:
• The dual layers allow for efficient separation of particles of varying sizes.
• Anthracite handles larger debris, while sand targets finer particles.
High Dirt-Holding Capacity:
• The anthracite layer prevents the rapid clogging of the sand, extending operational time
between backwashes.
Enhanced Flow Rates:
• The combination of media ensures high filtration efficiency without compromising flow rate.
Turbidity Removal:
• DMFs can effectively reduce turbidity levels, often achieving values below 1 NTU
(Nephelometric Turbidity Units).
Backwash Process
The backwash process is a critical maintenance procedure for filtration systems, including dual media
filters. It involves reversing the flow of water (and sometimes adding air) through the filter to remove
accumulated dirt, debris, and impurities from the filter media. This restores the filter's performance and
prolongs its operational life.
Steps in the Backwash Process
1. Stop the Filtration Process:
• The normal flow of water is stopped, and the filter is taken offline.
2. Reverse Water Flow:
• Water is pumped in the opposite direction (from the bottom to the top) through the filter media.
• This loosens and lifts the trapped debris.
3. Fluidization of Media:
• The backwash flow causes the filter media (sand and anthracite) to expand and separate slightly
• This ensures thorough cleaning of the media by dislodging trapped particles.
4. Air Scouring (Optional):
• In advanced systems, air is introduced along with the backwash water.
• The combination of air bubbles and water creates turbulence, enhancing the cleaning process.
5. Discharge of Waste:
• The dirty water carrying the dislodged impurities is discharged to a drain or waste system.
6. Rinse Cycle:
• After backwashing, clean water is passed through the filter to remove any remaining dirt before
resuming normal operation.
• This step prevents initial water contamination when the filter goes back online.
7. Resume Normal Operation:
• Once the media is clean and settled, the filter is brought back into normal operation.
Parameters for Effective Backwashing
1. Backwash Flow Rate:
Must be high enough to fluidize the filter media without causing it to escape the filter.
Typically measured as a percentage of the filter's normal flow rate.
2. Duration:
The backwash process typically lasts 10–15 minutes, depending on the level of dirt accumulation.
3. Frequency:
Determined by factors such as the water quality, filter media type, and operational conditions.
Usually, backwashing is performed when the pressure drop across the filter reaches a
predetermined level (e.g., 7–10 psi).
4. Water Volume:
Sufficient water must be available to perform the backwash without depleting the system's
capacity.
Advantages
Improved Filtration Efficiency
High Dirt-Holding Capacity
Longer Operational Time
Space Efficiency
Cost-Effective
Versatility
Consistent Water Quality
Easy Maintenance
Reliable Operation
Applications
Municipal water treatment plants.
Industrial water treatment systems.
Pretreatment for reverse osmosis and other advanced filtration systems.
Cooling water and boiler feed water treatment.
