Effect of Influent Property on Filter Performance

Abstract

This paper proposes a filter performance prediction model that takes into consideration influent suspension characteristics. Two new equations are proposed. One relates the filter coefficient to the unit volume pore space blocked, which is the product of bulking factor and specific deposit. The other relates the head loss to the unit volume pore space blocked and head loss constant. For each suspension filtered, its particle size and distribution was determined and a pilot evaluation was conducted to determine two experimental constants in the proposed model: bulking factor and head loss constant, both reflecting the characteristics of the influent suspension. In general, the model is capable of predicting the progression of filtrates and head loss developments. Procev dures regarding the experiments needed to calibrate the model and applications of the model in design considerations are presented.