How Do Water Filtration Plants Work

Water filtration plants are used by many communities worldwide to treat water for domestic and industrial use. These plants remove impurities and contaminants from the water to make it safe for consumption. In this article, we will discuss the process by which water filtration plants work.

The Process of Water Filtration

Water filtration plants use a multi-step process to remove contaminants from the water. The process typically involves screening, coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection, and storage. Each step is critical in ensuring that the water is safe for human and industrial use.

Screening

The first step in the water filtration process is screening. The purpose of screening is to remove large debris such as leaves, twigs, and rocks from the water. This is usually done using large screens positioned at the entrance of the water treatment plant. The screens can vary in size and mesh depending on the source of the water.

Coagulation and Flocculation

Coagulation is the process of adding chemicals to the water to remove impurities such as dirt and bacteria. The chemicals are added to the water as it enters the treatment plant. The chemicals cause impurities to clump together forming bigger particles known as floc. Flocculation then follows coagulation. This is the process of stirring the water to help the floc settle at the bottom of sedimentation basins.

Sedimentation

As the floc settles, it forms at the bottom of the sedimentation tanks. The clear water then moves to the next stage of filtration. This process can take up to 24 hours depending on the type of water being treated.

Filtration

After sediments and floc are removed, the water is then passed through a series of filters. The filters typically contain either activated charcoal or sand. The charcoal or sand removes fine particles such as bacteria and viruses from the water. This process ensures that even the smallest particles are removed from the water.

Disinfection

Disinfection is the process of adding chemicals such as chlorine to water to kill any remaining bacteria or viruses. This process ensures that the water is safe for human consumption. The amount of disinfectant added to the water depends on the quality of the water and the amount of bacteria and viruses present.

Storage

After the disinfection process, the water is stored in reservoirs and tanks where it awaits distribution. The storage tanks have to be cleaned and disinfected regularly to ensure that they are safe for storing water for consumption.

Conclusion

Water filtration plants play a vital role in ensuring that water is safe for human consumption. The process involves several stages such as screening, coagulation and flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection, and storage. Each stage is important in ensuring that the water is free from impurities and contaminants. Regular maintenance of filtration plants is critical in ensuring that the filtration process remains effective and efficient.