Low Flow Stacked Rapid Sand Filtration

Low Flow Stacked Rapid Sand Filtration

Low Flow Stacked Rapid Sand Filters are an adaptation of rapid sand filters optimized for flows less than 3 L/s that don't require any flow control or backwash. SRSF is a "game changing" technology invented by the AguaClara team that is significantly simpler to operate than conventional rapid sand filters. 

Current Research

This semester we will be responsible for analyzing and optimizing the Low Flow Stacked Rapid Sand filter. A prototype was previously constructed, in which we will assess it's effectiveness. The first task will be data collection including: flow rates, velocities, pipe measurements, greatest head loss locations, and pressure variations. A preliminary mathematical model in MathCAD has been developed and we will be responsible for improving and updating it. From that point, we will modify the current design, while updating the MathCAD model, to reduce head loss in certain segments. Additionally we will investigate methods to simply the construction of the device in more rural areas (i.e. Honduras). Once we are confident in the MathCAD model, we will introduce the sand into the filter and conduct a trial run. Our goal is to have the device ready for implementation in Honduras in January 2013.