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FilterSmart Backwash Monitor is a unique and powerful application of the industry-leading EchoSmart Interface Level Analyzer. Combining underwater ultrasonic level sensing with turbidity measurement, FilterSmart is revolutionizing gravity filter management.
The FilterSmart Backwash Monitor is revolutionizing the way water professionals manage their gravity filters. FilterSmart directly measures the parameters of actual interest: media expansion and turbidity. These two trends together present a clear picture of what’s going on during the backwash, allowing operators to ‘see’ into the process like never before. FilterSmart simplifies filter optimization because its 24/7 monitoring takes the place of countless manual hours of data collection.
The FilterSmart sensor is located in the top of a gravity filter just below the top of the wash trough. During a backwash, the ultrasonic sensor tracks the level of the media and the turbidity sensor measures how clean or dirty the wash water is as it flows into the wash trough. These two measurements produce trends that together provide an extremely accurate profile of the backwash and become a powerful tool for optimizing filter performance. Equipped with this insight, operators can virtually eliminate media loss and mud-ball formation, in most cases reduce water usage, and improve overall filter health and efficiency.
Given that our facility is on a tight budget, can we afford the FilterSmart equipment?
Even when installing the FilterSmart equipment on multiple filters, the water savings alone can pay for the equipment at most facilities in less than a year after optimizing the backwash sequence.
Is it necessary to install a FilterSmart sensor on every filter?
While not necessary, it can be very beneficial. Determining the optimal wash sequence for one filter does not mean the same parameters will transfer exactly to other filters since loading and filter dynamics vary and can also change seasonally.
Besides optimizing the backwash procedure, are there any other benefits of FilterSmart?
In addition to the cost savings of backwash optimization, the data obtained from FilterSmart can be useful in identifying problems that might exist with valves and pumps.
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Prefer to call?
Customer Care representatives are available by phone Monday–Friday, from 9am–5pm CST.
Badger Meter is an industry-leading innovator in flow measurement, water quality and control products, serving water utilities, municipalities and commercial and industrial customers worldwide.
We already get turbidity measurements on our effluent - why would we need to see the filter turbidity?
An in-filter turbidity measurement provides immediate feedback during a backwash on when the filter is clean. Additionally, leaving a small amount of turbidity in the filter can help to ripen the filter.
We use organ pipes or a white disc on a telescoping pole to measure media expansion - why would we need anything more?
Air scouring and surface washes stir up organic matter that can be visually interpreted as media, leading to a false sense of expansion. FilterSmart sensors can distinguish between the true expanded media elevation and organic matter being washed out of the filter.
Why do I need any more information than the engineer’s specification on the backwash protocol?
This information is a great starting point. Media age, pump performance, and other backwash characteristics can change seasonally and over time. The data from FilterSmart provides current data on filter performance instead of just a one-time calculation.
Why is getting sufficient expansion important?
Adequate expansion ensures proper cleaning of the filter media, can increase filter run times, and prevents mud ball formation.
What outputs are available on the FilterSmart system?
Current measurements can be obtained via Modbus RTU from the Controller or via 4-20mA outputs from each sensor connection. Two 4-20mA outputs are available at each sensor connection with one being dedicated to the turbidity value and the other customizable for media level, media expansion, or expansion percentage.
How often do the FilterSmart sensors need to be cleaned?
It is recommended that the sensors be inspected frequently the first 6 months to establish the necessary cleaning regimen for the specific application. Ensuring the measurement surface of the sensor remains clear of any buildup and that the wiper arm is allowed to rotate freely will allow for uninterrupted performance.
