What does a filter media's effective size impact in the filtration process?

The effective size of filter media plays a crucial role in determining the size of contaminants that can be successfully removed during the filtration process. Effective size refers to the diameter at which a certain percentage (typically 10%) of the particles in a sample are smaller.

When filter media has a smaller effective size, it can capture finer particles, including smaller contaminants such as silt, clay, and microorganisms. Conversely, media with larger effective size will mostly allow larger particles to pass through while capturing fewer smaller particles. This characteristic directly influences the overall efficiency of the filtration system in removing particulate matter and improving water quality.

Other factors such as water flow rate, clarity, and the amount of chemicals used are influenced by the filtration process but are not directly determined by the effective size of the filter media itself. For instance, a higher flow rate can reduce the efficacy of filtration by not allowing sufficient contact time for particles to be trapped. Similarly, clarity may improve with effective filtration but is more of a result than a determination factor of effective size.