Media Filtration: A Key Step for Water Quality
Media filtration is a water treatment process that retains suspended particles using a filter bed composed of granular materials (sand, anthracite, activated carbon, etc.)
This step is essential for removing suspended solids, reducing turbidity, and protecting downstream treatment processes, such as reverse osmosis or UV disinfection.
At SFEC, we design, build, and maintain media filtration units adapted to all types of water: industrial, process, potable, or recycled.
Our installations are custom-sized based on flow rate, impurity type, and quality objectives.
Our mission: to guarantee clear, stable water that meets the requirements of your industrial applications.
Operating Principles of a Media Filter
Media filtration relies on water passing through one or more layers of granular materials (sand, anthracite, glass beads, etc.), which mechanically retain suspended particles.
Filter regeneration is performed by an automatic backwash, allowing accumulated matter to be discharged.
Active Filtration
Suspended solids are retained in the media.
Progressive Accumulation
Clogging of the filter bed increases pressure drop.
Automatic Backwash
Water is sent back in reverse to clean the filter.
Rinsing and Return to Service
The system returns to its nominal performance.
Our Media Filtration Solutions
SFEC designs and installs single or multi-media filters, in automatic or manual versions, for flow rates ranging from a few m³/h to several hundred.
Single-layer Sand Filters
- Removal of coarse particles (≥ 50 µm)
- Ease of operation and low maintenance
- Tanks in painted steel, galvanized steel, or stainless steel
Dual-layer or Multi-layer Filters
- Improved retention capacity
- Optimization of flow rate and filtered water quality
- Suitable for pre-treatment before reverse osmosis or ion exchange
Specialized Media Filters
- Activated carbon: removal of free chlorine and organic compounds
- Activated glass: improved lifespan and biofilm resistance
- Catalytic media: reduction of iron, manganese, or ammonium
Industrial Automatic Filters
- Controlled by multi-port valve or programmable logic controller
- Skid-mounted systems ready for connection
- Remote monitoring options and integration into global systems
Advantages of Media Filtration
Media filtration is a robust and economical solution for improving water quality and protecting subsequent treatment stages.
Protection of downstream equipment
Reduction of fouling and clogging
Improved water quality
Reduction of TSS, turbidity, and colloidal matter
Process optimization
Improved performance of reverse osmosis and exchangers
Reduced maintenance
Automatic and durable operation
Economical solution
Low energy consumption and longevity of the filter media
Areas of Application
Media filtration is used in many sectors where water clarity and stability are paramount:
- Pre-treatment before reverse osmosis or demineralization
- Cooling circuits and cooling towers
- Agri-food or chemical process water
- Tertiary treatment before discharge or recycling
- Hospitals and laboratories
- Potabilization and domestic water installations
- Sterilization and industrial washing units
Questions and Answers
What is the Difference between Media Filtration and Cartridge Filtration?
Media filtration uses a washable granular bed, ideal for large volumes; cartridge filtration is used for lower flow rates and fine filtration (< 5 µm).
Which Filter Media to Choose Depending on the Application?
Sand and anthracite are suitable for conventional TSS; activated carbon for organic compounds, and activated glass for applications requiring high durability.
How Often should Backwashing be Performed?
The frequency depends on the pollutant load and the treated flow rate, generally every 24 to 72 hours. Automatic control optimizes this cycle.
Does a Media Filter Replace a Water Softener?
No. It treats solid particles, while the softener removes the ions responsible for hardness (calcium and magnesium).
What is the Lifespan of the Filter Media?
Between 3 and 7 years depending on the type of media and raw water quality, with regular turbidity checks at the outlet.
SFEC, global water treatment expert
The media filtration often constitutes the first physical barrier in a comprehensive treatment.
SFEC integrates these filters into complete systems:
Our teams ensure the design, installation, and maintenance of turnkey solutions compliant with the most demanding standards.
Do you wish to improve your water quality or protect your process installations?
Our experts advise you on choosing the media filtration system best suited to your needs.