Drum filters use a slowly rotating cylindrical screen with cloth or woven media to separate suspended solids from the MBBR effluent. Like disc filters, they operate by gravity, consume minimal energy and occupy far less space than a secondary clarifier. They are particularly suited to smaller plants or modular installations where simplicity and footprint are priorities.
How drum filters work after MBBR
MBBR effluent enters the inside of the rotating drum. Water passes outward through the filter cloth, leaving solids on the inner surface. As the drum rotates, the loaded section passes a backwash spray that lifts the solids into a collection trough. The process is continuous, self-cleaning and requires no pressurisation.
Drum and disc filters follow the same filtration principle; the main difference is geometric — drum filters use a horizontal cylinder, disc filters use vertical discs. The choice between them often comes down to tank geometry, flow rate and supplier offering. Both achieve similar effluent quality and footprint advantages over gravity settling.
Design considerations
MBBR + drum filter design (indicative — confirm per project)
| Parameter | Typical Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feed | Inside the drum | — | Gravity-fed; no pressurisation. |
| Cleaning | Rotating backwash | — | Continuous, automatic. |
| Footprint | Compact | — | Well suited to modular/small plants. |
| Effluent TSS | Low | mg/L | Comparable to disc filter. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between disc and drum filtration?
Can a drum filter replace the secondary clarifier?
Does drum filtration need chemical dosing?
Related Pages
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