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THE CONSTRUCTION OF SAND FILTER FOR PORTABLE WATER FILTRATION WITH STAINLESS STEEL MATERIAL

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1  Background of the Study

Filtration is the removal of solid particles from a fluid by passing the fluid through a filtering medium or septum, on which the solids are deposited, example of such filtering medium is known as sand filter. The fluid may be a liquid or gas; the valuable stream from the filter may be fluid, the solid on both.  Sometimes it is neither as when waste solid, must be separated from waste prior to disposal, in chemical laboratory.

In chemical laboratory, filtration is often carried out in a form of buchnor funnel and liquid is sucked through a thin layer of particles using a source of vacuum or even sampler cases, the suspension is poured into a conical funnel filtered unit a filter pepper. Generally, a thick layer of particles or solid particles as to be formed and in order to achieve a high rate of passage of fluid through the solids, high pressure will be required, and it will be necessary to provide a far greater area.

Fluid flows through a filter medium by virtue of pressure differences across the medium.  The volume of the suspension to be handled will vary from the extremely large quantities involved in water purification and are handling in the mining industry to relative small quantity in the fine chemical industry where the variety of solids would be considered.

For large scale filtration, cloth or canvas is frequently used as the medium, and the liquid is forced by pressure through the bed of the solid that collects impurities in the liquid.  A common method of large scale and domestic filtration is the purification of water by collecting some suspended penticle on a bed composed of coarse gravel covers with fine layers of sand.  The water sinks down through gravel and is run off by gravity.  The equipment used is the sand filter.

However, filters are divided into three major groups such as cake fitters, clarifying filters, and gross flow filters; there are different types of filters such as pressure filters, rotary filters, cake filters, string discharge filters, centrifugal filters, granular filters and send filter.

The increasing demand for clean and safe drinking water has necessitated the development of effective filtration systems. Sand filters are a widely recognized technology for purifying water, leveraging the natural filtration properties of sand to remove impurities. This study focuses on the construction of a sand filter for potable water filtration using stainless steel materials. Stainless steel, known for its corrosion resistance and durability, offers significant advantages over traditional materials in terms of longevity and performance. This study aims to explore the efficacy of stainless steel sand filters in providing high-quality potable water, addressing both technical and practical aspects of their construction and use.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the availability of various water filtration technologies, ensuring the reliability and longevity of sand filters remains a challenge. Traditional materials used in sand filters often suffer from corrosion and wear, leading to reduced efficiency and increased maintenance costs. The problem this study addresses is the need for a more durable and effective sand filter that can consistently provide potable water with minimal maintenance. By utilizing stainless steel in the construction of sand filters, this study aims to overcome these issues and improve the overall performance and lifespan of the filtration system.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of stainless steel in the construction of sand filters for potable water filtration. Specific objectives include:

i. To evaluate the impact of stainless steel on the filtration efficiency of sand filters.

ii. To determine the durability and corrosion resistance of stainless steel sand filters compared to traditional materials.

iii. To find out the maintenance requirements and operational costs associated with stainless steel sand filters.

1.4 Research Questions

i. What is the impact of stainless steel on the filtration efficiency of sand filters?

ii. What is the durability and corrosion resistance of stainless steel sand filters compared to traditional materials?

iii. How does the maintenance requirement and operational cost of stainless steel sand filters compare to those of filters made from traditional materials?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Hypothesis I

H0: There is no significant impact of stainless steel on the filtration efficiency of sand filters.

H1: There is a significant impact of stainless steel on the filtration efficiency of sand filters.

Hypothesis II

H0: There is no significant difference in durability and corrosion resistance between stainless steel sand filters and those made from traditional materials.

H2: There is a significant difference in durability and corrosion resistance between stainless steel sand filters and those made from traditional materials.

Hypothesis III

H0: There is no significant difference in maintenance requirements and operational costs between stainless steel sand filters and those made from traditional materials.

H3: There is a significant difference in maintenance requirements and operational costs between stainless steel sand filters and those made from traditional materials.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it addresses the need for improved water filtration systems that offer both high performance and durability. By evaluating the effectiveness of stainless steel in sand filters, the study aims to contribute to the development of more reliable and cost-effective water purification solutions. The findings will be valuable for stakeholders in the water treatment industry, including engineers, environmental scientists, and public health professionals, providing insights into the benefits of using stainless steel in filtration systems.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The scope of this study includes the design, construction, and evaluation of stainless steel sand filters for potable water filtration. The study will focus on assessing the filtration efficiency, durability, corrosion resistance, maintenance requirements, and operational costs associated with these filters. The research will be limited to laboratory and field tests conducted within a specified region and may not cover all possible variations in filter design and material properties.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

The study may encounter several limitations, including:

Limited sample size and geographical scope, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.

Potential variations in the quality of stainless steel used, which could impact the results.

Constraints in testing resources and equipment that may limit the extent of field testing.

Possible variations in water quality and environmental conditions that may influence filter performance.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Sand Filter: A water filtration device that uses sand to remove particles and impurities from water.

Stainless Steel: A corrosion-resistant alloy of iron with chromium and other elements, used for its durability and strength.

Filtration Efficiency: The effectiveness of a filter in removing contaminants from water.

Durability: The ability of a material or filter to withstand wear, pressure, or damage over time.

Corrosion Resistance: The ability of a material to resist deterioration caused by chemical reactions with its environment.

Maintenance Requirements: The actions needed to keep a filter in optimal working condition.

Operational Costs: The ongoing expenses associated with the use and maintenance of a filtration system.