Question 1

What does a quartz sand and activated carbon filter do?

Accepted Answer

It is a two-stage pressure filter. The top bed of activated carbon adsorbs free chlorine, chloramines, taste, odour and dissolved organic compounds. The lower bed of graded quartz sand removes suspended solids and turbidity down to ~10 micron. The combined unit produces clear, dechlorinated water suitable for cooling towers, process duties and as pre-treatment for RO membranes and softeners.

Question 2

How is the filter cleaned?

Accepted Answer

An electric multi-port valve bank automatically sequences backwash and fast-rinse cycles on a time, volume or differential-pressure trigger. Backwash lifts and re-grades the media; the fast rinse purges fines to drain before the unit returns to service. Cycles are managed by the on-board IP55 PLC panel and can be linked to a BMS.

Question 3

What flow rate and vessel size do I need?

Accepted Answer

Sizing is set by the surface filtration velocity — typically 10–15 m/h for general industrial duty and 8–10 m/h for pre-RO and high-clarity duties. Our standard range covers 1 to 200 m³/h, in carbon steel vessels from DN400 up to DN3000. Send us your design flow and source water analysis and we will size the vessel, media volumes and valve set.

Question 4

What is the typical media replacement interval?

Accepted Answer

Quartz sand lasts 5–7 years in a well-maintained, regularly backwashed unit. Activated carbon has a shorter life — typically 12–24 months on chlorinated mains supplies, sooner on heavily loaded sources. We supply replacement media in big bags or pre-weighed sacks for site recharge.

Question 5

Can this filter be used as pre-treatment for reverse osmosis?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a quartz sand and activated carbon filter is a standard pre-treatment step ahead of RO and ion exchange. The carbon protects the membranes from oxidative chlorine attack and the sand reduces SDI (silt density index) to within membrane manufacturers' limits.

Question 6

Is the vessel suitable for potable water?

Accepted Answer

The standard build uses an epoxy-lined carbon steel vessel and SS304 internals. WRAS-approved linings and food-contact media are available on request for potable water and food and beverage applications — please specify the duty at enquiry.

Quartz Sand & Activated Carbon Filters

Quartz sand & activated carbon filter configurations

Why specify our quartz sand and activated carbon filter

Quartz sand & carbon filter specifications

Quick answers before you order

Specified by UK engineers

Plate Heat Exchanger

Low Loss Headers

Side Stream Filtration