1. Chigadzirwa Pamusoroview
Dryden Aqua AFM (Activated Filter Material) is a high-performance filter medium designed to replace traditional filter sand in pressure and gravity sand filters. Manufactured from recycled glass, AFM offers superior filtration capabilities, significantly improving water quality and reducing the need for disinfectants. This product, specifically Grade 1 with a grain size of 0.4 - 0.8 mm, is engineered to remove particles down to 1 micron, a substantial improvement over conventional sand filters.
Figure 1: Packaging of Dryden Aqua AFM Activated Filter Material. This image shows the product bag, highlighting its branding and key features.
AFM's unique properties, including its hydrophobic surface and negative surface charge, enable it to effectively remove smaller particles and organic components through surface absorption. It complies with the European standard UNE-EN 12904 and is produced by an ISO 9000:2008 certified manufacturer, ensuring high quality and environmental sustainability.
2. Setup uye Kuiswa
AFM Grade 1 is a direct replacement for sand in all types of pressure or gravity sand filters. The transition from sand to AFM can significantly enhance your filtration system's performance.
2.1 Replacing Filter Sand with AFM
- Drain the Filter: Ensure your filter system is completely drained of water.
- Remove Old Media: Carefully remove all existing filter sand or glass sand from the filter tank. Dispose of the old media according to local regulations.
- Ongorora uye Uchenese: Inspect the filter tank and internal components (laterals, standpipe) for any damage or debris. Clean the tank thoroughly.
- Add AFM: Slowly add the Dryden Aqua AFM Grade 1 into the filter tank. Ensure even distribution. The amount of AFM required will typically be less by weight than the sand it replaces due to AFM's lower density, but consult your filter manufacturer's specifications for exact volume.
- Backwash Thoroughly: After filling, perform an initial backwash cycle for an extended period (e.g., 5-10 minutes) to remove any fine dust or debris from the new media. Follow with a rinse cycle.
- Resume Operation: Once the backwash and rinse cycles are complete and the water runs clear, the filter system is ready for normal operation.
Figure 2: A hand holding a sample of Dryden Aqua AFM filter material. This image illustrates the fine granular nature of the activated filter glass.
3. Operating Principles and Performance
AFM significantly enhances filtration performance compared to traditional filter media. Its advanced properties contribute to cleaner water and reduced chemical consumption.
3.1 Enhanced Filtration Sharpness
While high-quality sand typically removes about 90% of particles up to 10 microns, AFM Grade 1 can reduce particle size to 1 micron under the same controlled flow rate conditions (e.g., 10 m³/h). This superior filtration sharpness means more contaminants are removed from the water, leading to clearer and healthier water.
Figure 3: A magnified view of Dryden Aqua AFM filter material. This close-up shows the irregular, angular shape of the activated filter glass particles.
3.2 Self-Sterilizing Properties
AFM's unique manufacturing process creates a highly activated surface that is self-sterilizing. This property prevents the growth of bacteria and biofilm within the filter bed, which is a common issue with sand filters. By inhibiting biofilm formation, AFM maintains its filtration efficiency over time and reduces the consumption of disinfectants.
3.3 Hydrophobic Surface and Adsorption
The new generation (ng) AFM features a hydrophobic surface. Combined with its negative surface charge, this allows for the effective removal of small particles and organic components through surface absorption, further enhancing water clarity and purity.
4. Kuchengeta
Proper maintenance of your filter system, including regular backwashing, is crucial for optimal performance of AFM. While AFM's self-sterilizing properties reduce the risk of biofouling, routine backwashing is still necessary to remove trapped particulate matter.
4.1 Backwashing Frequency
The frequency of backwashing depends on the filter's usage, water quality, and the amount of particulate matter being filtered. Monitor your filter's pressure gauge; when the pressure rises significantly above its clean operating pressure, it's time to backwash. Typically, backwashing should occur at least once a week for residential pools during active use, or as indicated by pressure differential.
4.2 Backwashing Procedure
- Dzima Pombi: Always turn off the filter pump before changing the filter valve position.
- Set Valve to Backwash: Move the multi-port valve handle to the "Backwash" position.
- Kutanga Pombi: Turn on the pump and allow it to run until the water in the sight glass (if available) runs clear. This usually takes 2-3 minutes.
- Dzima Pombi: Dzima pombi.
- Set Valve to Rinse: Move the multi-port valve handle to the "Rinse" position.
- Kutanga Pombi: Turn on the pump and run for 30-60 seconds to re-settle the filter media.
- Dzima Pombi: Dzima pombi.
- Set Valve to Filter: Return the multi-port valve handle to the "Filter" position.
- Resume Operation: Turn on the pump to resume normal filtration.
5. Kugadzirisa matambudziko
If you experience issues with your filtration system after installing AFM, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- Mvura Yemakore:
- Ensure proper backwashing has been performed to remove any initial fines from the AFM.
- Check for proper water chemistry balance (pH, alkalinity, sanitizer levels).
- Verify that the filter pump is operating correctly and providing adequate flow.
- Inspect the filter laterals or internal components for damage that could allow unfiltered water to bypass the media.
- Reduced Flow Rate/High Pressure:
- The filter media may be dirty and require backwashing.
- Check the pump's skimmer and pump basket for debris.
- Ensure all valves are in the correct position for filtration.
- Media Loss During Backwash:
- Ensure the backwash flow rate is not excessively high.
- Verify that the filter's internal components (e.g., laterals) are intact and properly seated.
6. Zvinotsanangurwa
| Feature | Tsanangudzo |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Dryden Aqua AFM Activated Filter Material |
| Giredhi | 1 |
| Saizi yezviyo | 0.40 - 0.80 mm |
| Filtration Sharpness | Approx. 1 micron |
| Kugarisana | All sand filters and disinfection methods |
| Material Type | Glass (recycled) |
| Zviyero zvechigadzirwa (approx.) | 60 x 40 x 4 cm (kurongedza) |
| Chinhu Weight (approx.) | 21 makirogiramu |
| Mugadziri | Dryden Aqua |
| Model Number | 11939 |
| ASIN | B01B5KWJM0 |
| External Testing Certification | NSF |
7. Ruzivo rweWaranti
Specific warranty details for the Dryden Aqua AFM Activated Filter Material are not provided within this user manual. For information regarding product warranty, please refer to the original product packaging, purchase documentation, or contact Dryden Aqua directly through their official websaiti kana nzira dzebasa revatengi.
8. Mutengi Tsigiro
For further assistance, technical support, or inquiries regarding Dryden Aqua AFM Activated Filter Material, please visit the official Dryden Aqua website or contact their customer service department. Contact information is typically available on the manufacturer's webnzvimbo kana chigadzirwa kurongedza.
