Fall 2012 Contributions

This semester I will be responsible for analyzing and optimizing the Low Flow Stacked Rapid Sand filter. The first task will be data collection including: flow rates, velocities, pipe measurements, and pressure variations. Once the data has been adequately collected we will develop a mathematical model in MathCAD to simulate the current LFSR sand filter. Using this model, I will be able to determine which sections of pipe contribute the greatest amount of head loss. From that point, I will be able to modify the current design, while updating the MathCAD model, to reduce head loss in certain segments. Once we are confident in the MathCAD model, we will introduce the sand into the filter and conduct a trial run. 

Update: November 2012

My team and I have completed our MathCAD model for the existing Low Flow Stacked Rapid Sand Filter prototype. We were able to confirm the head losses we determined from the model with the actual losses experienced by the filter. Consequently, we were able to make fabrication modifications to the prototype to reduce head losses. Modifications included:

• Exchanging spring check valves on the outlet manifolds with swing check valves. Our calculations determined this modification would reduce the head loss.
• Complete reconstruction of the backwash pipe by using a 1.5 inch diameter pipe rather than the 1 inch pipe previously used. We determined this would significantly reduce head losses during filter backwash.
• To eliminate losses due to air bubbles, we adjusted fittings and replaced o-rings to make the filter pressurized during backwash. By doing this, we were able to obtain system head losses which matched the losses we calculated with our model.

As for individual work, I took measurements of the existing filter prototype and created a AutoCAD drawing of the LFSRSF. It is a three dimensional illustration with accurate dimensions and orientation. The drawing can continue to be updated as fabrications are made to the filter.