Plate Settler Ahead of Sand Filtration
Protecting Filters and Extending Run Times
A plate settler removes the bulk of suspended solids so downstream media filters run longer, backwash less, and deliver polished effluent.
Media filters (sand, multimedia, or continuous backwash) are excellent polishing devices but have a limited solids-holding capacity. Feeding them high-TSS water causes rapid head loss, frequent backwashing, and wasted backwash water.
Placing a plate settler upstream cuts influent TSS from hundreds of mg/L to typically below 20–30 mg/L, dramatically extending filter run times and reducing backwash frequency and volume. The combination delivers very low turbidity suitable for discharge, reuse, or membrane pretreatment.
This clarify-then-filter arrangement is one of the most cost-effective treatment trains in both municipal and industrial water treatment.
Engineering Considerations
Longer Filter Runs
Lower influent TSS means far longer intervals between backwashes.
Less Backwash Water
Reduced backwash frequency conserves water and cuts operating cost.
Consistent Polishing
Stable clarifier effluent lets the filter deliver reliably low turbidity.
Request an Engineering Assessment
Our engineers will review your application, flow rates, and water quality data to recommend the optimal plate settler configuration.