Filtration Media Sizing & Compatibility Guide for Water Treatment Plants
Choosing the right filtration media is critical to the performance and longevity of your water treatment system. Improper sizing or incompatible media can result in frequent clogging, pressure drop, hardening, and even fines due to failed water quality output.
At Starke Filter Media, we’ve compiled a practical filtration media sizing guide to help engineers, OEMs, and plant operators choose the best media based on design, contaminants, and operational goals.
Why Filtration Media Sizing Matters
The size of the filter media affects:
Turbidity removal efficiency
Backwash performance
Hydraulic loading
Media bed expansion
Improper sizing can cause:
Media choking or cementing
Inefficient contaminant removal
Reduced media lifespan
By following a media sizing guide, you reduce guesswork and maximize filtration performance.
Common Filter Media and Recommended Sizes
Here are some of the most commonly used filter media and their ideal size ranges:
| Media Type | Size Range | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Silica Sand | 0.6 – 1.2 mm | Basic turbidity removal, municipal WTPs |
| Anthracite | 0.8 – 1.6 mm | Pre-filtration, multimedia filters |
| Garnet | 0.3 – 0.6 mm | Bottom layer in multimedia filtration |
| Activated Carbon | 0.6 – 1.2 mm | Organic compound, chlorine, odor removal |
| Zeolite (Clinoptilolite) | 0.5 – 1.0 mm | Ammonia removal, softening, fine solids removal |
| Manganese Dioxide | 0.4 – 0.6 mm | Iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide removal |
| Calcite | 0.5 – 1.0 mm | pH correction for acidic water |
Pro Tip: Always verify the sieve analysis and Uniformity Coefficient (UC) of the media before purchase. A UC < 1.7 is ideal for consistent filtration.
Recommended Layering for Multimedia Filters
Proper layering improves dirt holding capacity and prevents backwash losses.
Top to Bottom Media Configuration:
✅ Anthracite – 0.8 to 1.6 mm
✅ Silica Sand – 0.6 to 1.2 mm
✅ Garnet – 0.3 to 0.6 mm
✅ Support Gravel – 2 to 6 mm
This configuration ensures effective filtration, higher throughput, and balanced backwash flow.
Sizing & Compatibility Tips
Here are some key tips from the Starke filtration media sizing guide:
✅ UC (Uniformity Coefficient) should ideally be <1.7
✅ Match media size to nozzle type and spacing
✅ Adjust for water chemistry (e.g., use calcite in acidic conditions)
✅ Check backwash velocity and bed expansion specs
✅ Avoid mixing media densities unless specified by design
Incorrect combinations often lead to premature media failure, uneven backwash, or filter breakthrough.
📥 Download the Free Filtration Media Sizing Guide (PDF)
Filtration Media Sizing & Compatibility Guide
Includes:
Media selection table
Layering charts
UC and sieve tips
Compatibility checklist
Why Choose Starke Filter Media?
Starke is trusted by water treatment professionals globally for:
Consistent media sizing and purity
Export-ready packaging and support
Certified, lab-tested materials (AWWA B100, NSF-compliant)
Technical consultation and free samples available
Need Help Choosing the Right Media?
Our technical team can assist with:
Custom sizing
Layering design
Free sample dispatch
Export documentation
Visit: www.starkefiltermedia.com
Conclusion
By following the correct filtration media sizing guide, you can enhance the performance and lifespan of your filters while ensuring regulatory compliance. Download our free guide today and let Starke Filter Media help you make the smart choice for your water treatment plant.