Filtration

Ultra Filtration (UF)

A treatment process that uses a semipermeable membrane to remove large molecules and suspended solids from water. 

UF is a type of membrane filtration that uses pressure or concentration gradients to separate different fluids.

How does UF work?

• Water is forced through a membrane with precisely sized openings.

• Larger molecules and solids are retained on one side of the membrane.

• Smaller molecules and water pass through the membrane to the other side.

What does UF remove?

• Remove most organic molecules, viruses, and a range of salts. 

• Remove colloidal particles, such as silica, silt, endotoxins, plastics and proteins. 

Where is UF used?

• In the municipal water industry to remove contaminants from drinking water. 

• As a pretreatment step to protect reverse osmosis equipment. 

• In research and industry to purify and concentrate macromolecular solutions. 

• UF is different from other types of membrane filtration, such as microfiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis. 

Filtration

Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)

A filtration media used to remove contaminants from water.

Used in water treatment for drinking water, wastewater, and private well water.

How does GAC work?

• GAC is a porous material with a large internal surface area.

• Water passes through filters containing GAC, where the GAC traps and adsorbs contaminants.

• GAC can remove organic chemicals, inorganic compounds, and chemicals that cause odours and tastes.

Which material is Granular Activated Carbon made from?

GAC can be made from a variety of raw materials, including:

• Bituminous coal

• Lignite coal

• Peat

• Wood

• Coconut shells

How is GAC used?

• GAC is used in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment to remove small amounts of soluble organics and inorganic compounds.

• GAC is also used to remove contaminants from drinking water, including PFAS compounds.

• GAC is used to treat private well water. 

GAC System

• Components carbon contactors carbon storage.

• Carbon transport systems.

• Carbon regeneration systems.

Treatment

Ultraviolet Treatment (UV)

A disinfection method that uses ultraviolet light to kill harmful microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and parasites in water by disrupting their DNA, rendering them unable to reproduce.

How does UV work?

• Water is passed through a chamber where it is exposed to UV light, which damages the genetic material of microorganisms present in the water.

Benefits of UV treatment:

• Considered a chemical-free disinfection method, preserving the natural taste.

Limitations:

• UV light alone does not remove dissolved solids or chemicals, so it often needs to be combined with other filtration methods.