Water Filtration Methods

There are 3 types of water purification based on microporous water filtration: depth filtration, screen filtration and surface filtration. Depth filters are compressed materials that form a matrix that traps particles. Screen filters are uniform structures that filtrate and separate all the particles larger in size than the size of the pore. Surface filter consist of several layers of media. In surface filters particles are accumulated mainly on the surface of the structure.

It’s important to notice the difference between these 3 types of filters as they perform different tasks. Depth filters are a good way to remove suspended solids and prevent fouling and clogging. They are used as prefilters.

Surface filters can remove suspended soils almost completely. They serve as prefilters or clarifying filters.
Screen filters are the final stage of the water purification systems and are used to remove the last contaminants, that haven’t been removed by other water filters.

Microporous membrane filters are effective as they remove all particles larger in size than the size of the pores. Besides these water filters are easy to use and require little maintenance.
At the same time microporous water filters do not remove dissolved inorganics and chemicals. They are not regenerable and may cost a considerable amount of money.

Ultrafiltration water purification reminds the microporous water purification technology. The difference is that a microporous membrane removes particles that are larger than the pore size. Ultrafiltration water filter separates molecules when the solution passes through an extremely fine water filter.

The water filter uses a thin membrane that stops most big molecules (colloids, microorganisms). Molecules that are smaller in size (solvents, ionized contaminants) pass through the membrane. Therefore we have two solutions – one is rich in large molecules and the other one free from large molecules.

Ultrafiltration helps to remove most particles, microorganisms and colloids as the size of their molecules is larger then the rated size. The water purification process is regenerable and water of a high quality is produces with little energy.

Water Filters in a Water Purification SystemDistillation and Carbon Adsorption FiltersWater Purification Technologies