We are all aware that
quartz sand filter media is a material capable of purifying and filtering water. However, quartz sand does not adsorb impurities from water. Instead, it intercepts particulate or flocculent matter through the interstices between its angular grains, rather than through adsorption as commonly assumed. During use, the critical factors are abrasion and fragmentation. How might one distinguish between them? How does one analyse purity versus ordinary quality?
Pure white quartz sand free from impurities or discolouration is preferable. Whilst some quartz sand exhibits high transparency, such specimens invariably represent high-grade quartz sand. Quartz sand displaying discolouration or lower whiteness falls into the ordinary category. Acid-washed quartz sand typically boasts higher purity. Concurrently, the grain size of quartz sand should be uniform. The variation in particle size should be minimal. Furthermore, the quartz sand should exhibit a regular granular form rather than flaky particles. It is important to note that quartz sand with inconspicuous joints at the seams is considered a superior product. A key or pencil sharpener can be used to test its quality. If deep and noticeable scratches appear, the product is substandard. For grit sizes below 200 mesh, if grinding with sandpaper causes significant stone powder to shed, it is deemed unsuitable. Regarding the upper and lower edges of the cut surface, any chipped or fractured edges indicate a substandard product.
How should quartz sand filter media be utilised? Firstly, wastewater enters the filter's quartz sand bed via a lift pump, where suspended solids are intercepted by the sand layer. The filtered water then exits through the drainage outlet via the collection system. During filtration, the filter's flow rate remains constant. Removed suspended solids accumulate on the filter bed, increasing filtration resistance, reducing processing capacity, and adversely affecting post-filtration water quality parameters. Therefore, based on the filtered water quality, the filter tank should undergo a 10-minute backwash of the quartz sand filter media every 12 to 15 hours to remove suspended solids retained in the filter bed. This backwash is scheduled via an automatic control device. To compensate for quartz sand filter media loss during backwashing, regular replenishment of quartz sand filter media is required.
Typically, manufacturers package quartz sand filter media upon dispatch. Packaging should utilise containers lined with plastic bags or woven sacks. During transport and storage, both quartz sand and triangular stone support media require inspection to prevent bag rupture, leakage, or contamination. They should not be stacked alongside support media or other filter materials. Quartz sand filter media and other filter materials should not be stored alongside toxic, hazardous substances, or pollutants. When stored outdoors, measures must be taken to prevent dust and contamination. Filter media and support materials should not be stacked with other materials.
