Stormwater Menu
Home 
Aqua-Filter™
Aqua-Filter™
| Aqua-Filter™, Stormwater Filtration System |
 |
 |
Introduction
Aqua-Filter™ Introduction
Each Aqua-Filter™ system is custom engineered and utilizes a unique approach for pollutant removal. This patented configuration begins with the removal of gross pollutants by the Swirl Concentrator, followed by the removal of fine sediments and water-borne pollutants by the Filtration Chamber.
The Aqua-Filter™ System is engineered such that the filtration capacity complies with established water quality treatment requirements. This means that the system filters the initial movement of fine sediment pollutants that can be particularly harmful. 
The Aqua-Filter™ Stormwater Filtration System operates under gravitational and hydrodynamic forces with no moving parts or valves, which simplifies the treatment process. The Aqua-Filter™ System also normally operates in an off-line configuration as recommended by the Center for Watershed Protection and most municipalities; fully treating the more frequent 6-month to 1-year design storms (or roughly 90% - 95% of the annual rainfall on a given site).
Performance testing is a normal part of our quality assurance program. Third party testing has demonstrated TSS removals of greater than 80% and the effective removal of additional pollutants including hydrocarbons (i.e. light and heavy oils and grease), phosphorus, and various heavy metals (i.e. copper, zinc). The Aqua-Filter™ systems unique treatment method is illustrated in the drawing shown below and described in the following steps. Operation
Step 1. - Pre-treatment
Peripheral pretreatment of contaminated stormwater is not necessary when using the Aqua-Filter™ Stormwater Filtration System. In fact, each Aqua-Filter™ system is custom engineered to utilize a unique treatment sequence where both the course and fine pollutants are removed.
This sequence begins with the Swirl Concentrator designed to target the removal of Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and free-floating oil and debris. The addition of the Swirl Concentrator allows for larger debris to settle before filtration and increases filtration effectiveness.
Step 2. - Filtration
The filtration chamber in the Aqua-Filter™ System is designed to refine and enhance the stormwater quality prior to discharge into sensitive receiving waters. The peak filtration flow rate is based on the calculated water quality treatment requirements desired for the site. The Sizing Chart provided in the catalog indicates the peak filtration flow rate for the specific Aqua-Filter™ model.
As the pre-treated water enters the filtration chamber, it is evenly distributed across the filter bed and allowed to permeate through the filter media. The filter media are contained in individual containers, which are layered in a pattern to avoid short-circuiting. Benefits
Retrofit Applications
The Aqua-Filter™ system is designed so that it can be used for retrofit applications. The filtration system can be installed both above and below grade, and can be used for industrial applications to meet new, more stringent permit requirements.
Fast Installations
The Aqua-Filter™ system has been designed and fabricated to facilitate easy installation of the system.
Due to the lightweight durable nature of HDPE, typically no special lifting equipment is required to off load the Aqua-Filter™ System. Lifting supports or cables are provided on each unit, and typically installation can be accomplished with an excavator or track-hoe. Compared to concrete systems, using an Aqua-Filter™ can significantly reduce installation costs. In addition, stub-outs for the inlet and outlet are provided. AquaShield™ will furnish the coupling between the Swirl Concentrator and Filter Chamber. This requires the contractor to simply attach the pipes to the Stormwater Filtration System with rubber couplings for the system to function properly. Typically, an AquaShield™ representative is present on-site to assist in the installation process.
Easy Maintenance
Maintenance of the Aqua-Filter™ Stormwater Filtration System is two-fold. First, inspect the swirl concentrator, then inspect the filtration chamber.
The first step is to inspect and cleanout the Swirl Concentrator pre-treatment chamber. Free-floating oil and floatable debris can be directly observed and removed through the 32-inch service access provided. If cleanout is needed, a vacuum truck can be used to remove the accumulated sediment and debris. The second step is to inspect and cleanout the Aqua-Filter™ filtration chamber. Inspection of the filtration chambers can be performed from the surface by observing the color change of the filter media from its original light color to dark brown. If the filter bags need replacing, entry into the system is required. The spent filter containers are lifted from the chamber as shown below. Replacement filters are then lowered into the system and set into position. The filters are placed into two foot by two foot holders that should be overlapped such that the lower two bags are parallel to the length of the filtration chamber, and the upper two are perpendicular to the length of the chamber. Care must be taken to ensure that the containers are seated into position to promote good contact with the walls on all sides. Typically, the spent filters do not require any special treatment or handling for disposal. AquaShield™ recommends that all materials removed be handled and disposed of in accordance with local and state requirements. An Inspection and Maintenance Manual is provided with the Aqua-Filter™ system for more detailed maintenance procedures. Filter media
Filter Media
The variety of natural filter media utilized are capable of removing waterborne pollutants such as oil, fine-grained sediment, and heavy metals as particulate. Perlite is the most commonly used filter media. Other filter media and blends that contain zeolite, leaf compost and granulated activated carbon are also available.Photos
Aqua-Filter™ Photo Gallery
        Animation
Aqua-Filter™ Animation
|
Aqua-Filter™ Brochure (