Filtration Rate Calculator
Calculate filter area, media volume, and backwash requirements from flow rate and loading rate.
Inputs
MGD
gpm/ft²
inches
hours
Results
Total Filter Area Required
868 sq ft
Number of Filters
3
Area per Filter289 sq ft
Filter TypeDual Media (anthracite/sand)
Filtration Velocity9.8 m/h
Empty Bed Contact Time4.7 min
Media Volume80 cubic yards
Clean Bed Headloss1.3 ft
Terminal Headloss3.8 ft
Backwash Water Use1.6% of production
Media Replacement Cost$54,253
Run Volume (gal)10,000,000
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter Plant Flow Rate (MGD) — the design flow the filter bank must handle including peak demand.
- Select Filter Type (rapid sand, dual media, greensand, slow sand) to apply the appropriate loading rate range.
- Enter Filtration Loading Rate (gpm/ft²) from design standards or regulatory limits for your filter type.
- Input Media Depth (inches) and Filter Run Length (hours) from your operational data or design basis.
- Review Total Filter Area Required (sq ft) and Number of Filters to plan filter cell sizing and redundancy.
- Check Area per Filter to verify each cell falls within the practical construction size range for your design.
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