Diatomaceous earth filters, also known as DE filters (Diatomaceous Earth), are used for liquid filtration, especially in industrial processes and water and effluent treatment systems. Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance made up of fossilized microscopic skeletons of diatoms, which are single-celled organisms.
What is a diatomaceous earth filter for:
Very Fine Filtration: DE filters are known for their ability to provide extremely fine filtration, removing very small particles from the liquid being filtered.
Solid Removal: They are effective in removing solid particles, sediment, algae and other impurities that may be present in water or other liquids.
Clarification: In addition to filtration, DE filters also have a clarification function, improving the transparency and visual quality of the filtered liquid.
How a diatomaceous earth filter works:
Diatomaceous Earth Preparation:
Diatomaceous earth is mixed with water, forming a paste known as "diatomaceous earth mud."
Application of Mud in the Filter:
The mud is applied to a filter support, usually a screen, inside the DE filter. The amount of mud applied will depend on the desired filtration rate.
Formation of the Filtering Layer:
As the liquid to be filtered passes through the layer of diatomaceous earth, the solid particles are retained by the layer formed by diatomaceous earth on the filter support.
Filter Cleaning and Renewal:
As the filter layer accumulates particles, the filter's efficiency decreases. Periodically, it is necessary to clean and renew the filter. This is usually done by reversing the flow of the liquid or using a "backwash" process to remove impurities from the diatomaceous earth layer. After cleaning, a new layer is applied to continue the filtration process.
Advantage of Continuous Filtration:
One of the advantages of DE filters is that they allow continuous filtration, as it is possible to clean and renew the filter layer while the process is in progress.
Use in Different Applications:
DE filters are commonly used in food and beverage industries, swimming pools, drinking water and wastewater treatment, among other applications.
Diatomaceous earth filters are efficient and versatile, being common choices in sectors that demand high quality filtration and clarification of liquids. |
