Hello Steve . . .
Good questions.
We're trying something new by using KDF-55 media (a mixture of granulated copper and zinc-based alloys) in this application; if it works out, it'll be money in the bank.
Below is some promotional KDF literature from their website.
The -55 media is for chlorine and heavy metals.
We'll be testing for trace copper residue, etc.,
before any water from the system enters the pond. I've been told that the AC after the KDF will remove all traces of the metals.
After all, we don't want to poison the koi.
Right now, we're just running the system to waste to break it in and get rid of any factory fines, trace mfg. chemicals, etc.
This is the Copper Test Kit we've ordered from AES:
Copper Test Kit by LaMotte®
Copper as copper sulfate is often used in fish culture as an algaecide, but it can be lethal to fish at low levels, especially with low pH and alkalinity levels. It can be very toxic to juvenile clams and other invertebrates, particularly saltwater species. Testing takes one minute. Range: .05 to .5 mg/liter.
Click image to view larger image
Don't worry: If there is any trace copper in the output, we'll dump the KDF-55 and refill with 100% AC.
PS: Regular backwashing is designed to flush sediments and precipitates to waste.
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What are KDF® Process Media and how do they work?
KDF® Process Media are high-purity, granulated copper and zinc-based alloys that treat water through a process based upon the principle of
redox (Oxidation-Reduction). Originally, KDF was shorthand for Kinetic Degradation Fluxion.
We can explain redox like this: KDF Fluid Treatment’s unique combination of copper and zinc creates an electro-chemical reaction. During this reaction, electrons are transferred between molecules, and new elements are created. Some harmful contaminants are changed into harmless components. Free chlorine, for instance, is changed into benign, water-soluble chloride, which is then carried harmlessly through the water supply. Similarly, some heavy metals such as copper, lead, mercury and others, react to plate out onto the medium’s surface, thus being effectively removed from the water supply.
Why use KDF Process Media?
The marketplace is filled with good water filtration/purification systems and technologies (We should know—many of those manufacturers are some of our best customers.)
So…why consider using KDF Process Media? We can give you two good reasons (See "
Benefits of KDF Process Media" below).
One: Because KDF Process Media enhance the performance, extend the life, reduce the maintenance and lower the total cost of many available carbon-based systems.
Two: KDF Process Media help control microorganisms by creating an environment that’s deadly to some microorganisms and that interferes with the ability of many other microorganisms to function. Either way, the use of KDF Process Media results in the total elimination of some contaminants and a great reduction of a wide variety of others.
Benefits of KDF Process Media- Significantly extend the life of granular activated carbon
- Are recyclable
- Effectively remove chlorine and heavy metals and control microorganisms
- Are available in four granular styles, each designed for a specific need
- Outperform silver-impregnated carbons
- Require no EPA registration, thus less red tape
Where are KDF Process Media used?
KDF Process Media are used in a variety of pretreatment, primary treatment, and wastewater applications. They are generally used in place of, or in conjunction with, granular activated carbon filters, even carbon block or inline filters. KDF Process Media extend the life of granular activated carbon (GAC) while protecting the carbon bed against fouling by bacterial growth.
Process Media vs. Activated Carbon
Source: KDF Fluid Treatment Inc.
What are KDF Process Media (Redox Filter Media) and How Do They Work in Treatment of Water and Wastewater?