AWWA WQTC58839

Adequate filter bed expansion is critical to achieving an effective filter backwash. While this is a simple and well-known concept, many filter plant operators have not been able to effectively incorporate bed expansion measurements into a filter backwash routine. Accomplishing this task can be cumbersome, unless proper equipment, techniques, and guidance are provided. During Pennsylvania's 14-year history of conducting over 1,000 detailed Filter Plant Performance Evaluations at 340 filter plants, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) staff have had the opportunity to perform countless filter bed expansion measurements. Over the years, DEP staff have observed common performance trends and have refined expansion measurement techniques to gather information that can be readily applied to operators across the country. These experiences have enabled DEP staff to devise an inexpensive and easy-to-construct device to measure bed expansion. This paper presents the innovative construction and measurement techniques in their research paper, with the goal of enabling filter plant operators to routinely conduct efficient bed expansion measurements. Includes 2 references, table, figures.