A purified water system utilizes a multi-stage filtration process to remove contaminants and impurities from water.
Stages of Water Purification
Here's a breakdown of a typical purified water system, based on the provided reference:
| Stage | Filter Type | Function | Removes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sediment Filter | Removes visible particles and sediment. | Dirt, rust, silt |
| 2 | Carbon Block Filter | Removes organic compounds. | Chemicals, solvents, chlorine |
| 3 | Reverse Osmosis (RO) Membrane | Removes inorganic matter at a molecular level. | Lead, mercury, arsenic (and other inorganic contaminants) |
Detailed Explanation of Each Stage
- Sediment Filter: This is typically the first stage. It functions as a particulate filter and traps larger particles that would otherwise clog subsequent filters.
- Carbon Block Filter: This filter utilizes activated carbon to adsorb organic compounds and chlorine. The carbon has a large surface area which allows it to effectively trap these contaminants.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) Membrane: The RO membrane is the heart of many purified water systems. It employs pressure to force water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane, leaving the majority of dissolved solids and contaminants behind. The reference mentions an "80 GPD Reverse Osmosis Membrane," where GPD means gallons per day, indicating the amount of purified water produced.
Summary
In essence, a purified water system works through a sequential process of removing progressively smaller particles and impurities, resulting in cleaner and safer drinking water. This usually involves a sediment filter, a carbon filter, and a reverse osmosis membrane.
