Sidestream Filtration
Definition
Continuous diversion of a small fraction of circulating water (typically 1 to 5 percent of the recirculation rate) through a filter and back to the basin.
It is the most reliable tool in open recirculating systems and works by cumulative removal rather than single-pass cleaning. Sand filters, multimedia beds, disk filters, and automatic screen filters are chosen by particle size distribution and solids loading. The general sizing guideline is to turn over the full system volume through filtration at least once every 4 hours, tightening to 2 to 4 hour turnover for heavy loading or critical reliability.
Related concepts
Sand Filter · Turbidity · Under-Deposit Corrosion
Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🛠️ operations