Filtrex, Inc. · Filtration · Regenerative media (precoat) filters
Filtrex EC Series Regenerative Media Filters
Stainless steel regenerative precoat filters with automated MOD I control, built in Wayne, New Jersey.
Overview
Filtrex, Inc. of Wayne, New Jersey builds the EC series of regenerative media filters for commercial aquatic and industrial service. Each filter is a vertical 304L stainless steel tank holding a nest of Flex-Tube elements, which are braided-filament tubes with an internal stainless steel spring. A precoat of diatomite (DE) or perlite is deposited on the tubes and does the filtering; when the cake loads up, an Elec-Air bump system flexes the tubes to release and remix the media so it can be redeposited, which is why the filters do not backwash. Filtrex's product page describes the line as providing filtration down to 1 micron while minimizing water waste, energy use and maintenance.
Filtrex publishes application and sizing data for 18 EC models (plus an EC 1675 Short variant) from the EC 140 (16 in. tank, 77.3 sq ft) to the EC 2100 (60 in. tank, 1,538.8 sq ft). Standard working pressure is 50 psi with non-code tank construction at a safety factor of 4. Filtrex's sizing chart lists a maximum design filtration rate of 1.60 gpm/sq ft for most models, names Celite 545, Dicalite 4200 and E-P FW50 as filter aids, and identifies DE as the preferred media. 'S' (Stretch) models, introduced in 1984, add capacity within the same tank diameter, and the chart marks the S models plus the EC 1275, EC 1675 and EC 2100 as most-specified units, with other sizes built to order.
Every filter is automated by Filtrex's MOD I solid-state filter controller, which is wired at the factory to the bump actuator and the pre-coat and on-stream solenoid valves. Filtrex's MOD 1 electrical diagram shows interface points for a Filtrex VFD, a UV system, a chemical controller, heater or dehumidifier, a flow meter and the optional Vacuum Transfer media-charging system. Filtrex states that its filters are independently certified by NSF and that its history under NSF listing dates to 1964; Filtrex also states that it has used only stainless steel tanks since 1976 and aims for a service life equal to the facility itself.
Is this a fit for your facility?
Usually a fit when
- Facilities that want to eliminate backwash water and its associated sewer and heating costs.
- Equipment rooms with limited floor space; Filtrex lists a small footprint as a design feature of the EC series.
- Operators who want the filter, controller and pump drive delivered as one factory-programmed system.
- Public pools and waterparks where fine particle removal matters; Filtrex's product page cites filtration down to 1 micron with DE or perlite precoat.
Look elsewhere when
- Sites that cannot handle precoat media (DE or perlite) deliveries and spent-media disposal; Filtrex's media fact sheet notes some local authorities prohibit direct sewer discharge of spent DE.
- Applications with very high influent solids (300 to 1,000 ppm); Filtrex's design paper says those use its longer-element industrial filters at 0.8 gpm/sq ft or less rather than the recreational-water EC design.
Ideal facilities and conditions: Municipal and park district pools and splash pads; University and school natatoriums; Waterpark and water attraction filtration; Hotel and club pools where equipment room space is tight.
Problems it addresses
Key capabilities and benefits
Capabilities
- 304L stainless steel tank rated 50 psi working pressure; Filtrex's sizing chart lists all-stainless components and a true ASME flanged and dished head.
- No backwashing: an Elec-Air bump system with a double boot mechanism regenerates the precoat in place.
- Flex-Tube elements (0.5 in. diameter on 1 in. triangular pitch, polyester braid, internal stainless spring) with a 20 psi recommended operating differential and 75 psi ultimate.
- Filter element length is limited to 36 in. for recreational water; Filtrex states typical element longevity of 15 to 20 years.
- MOD I solid-state filter controller included and factory-wired; interfaces for VFD, UV, chemical controller, flow meter and Vacuum Transfer are shown on Filtrex's electrical diagram.
- Runs on either diatomite (preferred) or perlite precoat; Filtrex names Celite 545, Dicalite 4200 and E-P FW50 as filter aids.
Operational and buyer benefits
- Filtrex states its stainless steel construction yields a stronger, longer-lasting filter with lower maintenance and a significantly lower total cost of ownership than traditional alternatives.
- Filtrex states the EC series minimizes water waste, energy use and maintenance while filtering down to 1 micron.
- Filtrex states it offers the best warranty and that its filters are independently certified by NSF.
Available models and configurations
Technical specifications
| Model range | EC 140 through EC 2100 (18 models, plus EC 1675 Short)Source: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/applicationdata.pdf |
|---|---|
| Flow range across line | 75 to 2,490 gpmSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/applicationdata.pdf |
| Effective filtration area across line | 77.3 to 1,538.8 sq ftSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/filtrexsizingchart.pdf |
| Tank material | 304L stainless steelSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/applicationdata.pdf |
| Working pressure | 50 psi; standard tank construction is non-code, safety factor 4Source: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/applicationdata.pdf |
| Maximum design filtration rate | 1.60 gpm/sq ft (1.50 for EC 140; 1.40 for EC 1675), based on piping layoutSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/filtrexsizingchart.pdf |
| Head loss, clean filter | 1.5 ft static / 3.02 ft totalSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/applicationdata.pdf |
| Head loss, solids-laden before regeneration | 23 ft static / 26 ft totalSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/applicationdata.pdf |
| Regeneration (bump) system | Elec-AirSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/applicationdata.pdf |
| Filter aids | Celite 545, Dicalite 4200, E-P FW50; DE is the preferred mediaSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/filtrexsizingchart.pdf |
| Flex-Tube operating differential | 20 psi recommended, 75 psi ultimateSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/flextubedatachart.pdf |
| Filter element | 0.5 in. diameter on 1 in. triangular pitch, polyester braid; 36 in. maximum length for recreational waterSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/designphilosophy.pdf |
| Controller power | 110/120 V single phase to MOD I filter controllerSource: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/mod1electrical.pdf |
| Head actuator | Air-Stroke pneumatic actuator (requires compressed air supply)Source: https://filtrexnj.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/09/disassemblysequence.pdf |
| NSF | Filtrex states its filters are independently certified by NSF; effective areas are stated to be based on current NSF listingsSource: https://filtrexnj.com/ |
Specifications are summarized from manufacturer literature and depend on configuration. Confirm current values with FreyTech before design.
Installation requirements and retrofit considerations
Prerequisites
- Compressed air supply for the Air-Stroke bump actuator and pneumatic valves.
- 110/120 V single-phase power for the MOD I filter controller.
- DE or perlite precoat media supply and a compliant disposal path for spent media (consult local regulations).
- Filtrex asks that the manufacturer be contacted for assistance with proper plumbing layout; flow is based on plumbing design of the system.
Retrofit and replacement notes
- Filtrex's history page notes MOD I SSC controller retrofits have been applied to older Filtrex filters over the years.
- The Vacuum Transfer media-charging system is offered as a retrofit for existing Filtrex installations.
- Filtrex VFD packages are pre-wired and pre-programmed to interface with the MOD I controller.
Integration with other equipment
No equipment integrations are documented for this product. Coordination happens through the design team.
FreyTech's role: design, installation, commissioning, training, support
Project services
- Evaluation of fit for your facility
- Supply, lead time and pricing confirmed on request
- Installation and support coordination where the product calls for it
Ongoing service and support
- Parts, consumables and warranty coordination through FreyTech
Brochures, manuals, warranties and specifications
- Product pageRegenerative Media Filters product page (opens manufacturer site)Web · Manufacturer-hosted
- Specification sheetFiltrex Sizing Chart (Rev 2-18) (opens manufacturer site)PDF · Manufacturer-hosted
- Specification sheetFiltrex ANSI Sizing Chart (opens manufacturer site)PDF · Manufacturer-hosted
- Specification sheetApplication Data (specifications, operating data, pool performance) (opens manufacturer site)PDF · Manufacturer-hosted
- Engineering resourceFlex-Tube Filter Element Data (opens manufacturer site)PDF · Manufacturer-hosted
- Engineering resource
- Engineering resourceWhy Stainless Steel? (opens manufacturer site)PDF · Manufacturer-hosted
- Engineering resourcePrecoat Media Fact Sheet (opens manufacturer site)PDF · Manufacturer-hosted
- Installation manualMOD 1 Electrical Diagram (opens manufacturer site)PDF · Manufacturer-hosted
- Owner's manualDisassembly-Reassembly Sequence, Head Assemblies, Airstroke (opens manufacturer site)PDF · Manufacturer-hosted
- Engineering resourceFiltrex Documentation library (opens manufacturer site)Web · Manufacturer-hosted
All resources for Filtrex EC Series Regenerative Media Filters · Request documents
Filtrex EC Series Regenerative Media Filters: frequently asked questions
Does a Filtrex regenerative filter backwash?
No. Filtrex lists 'No Backwashing' as a feature: the Elec-Air bump system flexes the Flex-Tube elements to shed and remix the precoat, which is then redeposited. Filtrex's design paper says a 6-hour regeneration interval is typical, varying with bather load.
What media does it use?
Diatomite (DE) or perlite. Filtrex's sizing chart names Celite 545, Dicalite 4200 and E-P FW50 and identifies DE as the preferred media; the application data lists the precoat charge in pounds of each for every model.
Is the controller included?
Filtrex's sizing chart lists the filter as 'automated as a complete system,' and its MOD 1 electrical diagram shows the bump actuator solenoid and precoat/on-stream valves wired from the factory to the MOD I filter controller.
Next step
Is Filtrex EC Series Regenerative Media Filters right for your facility?
Send us your pool volumes, current equipment, and what is not working. A specialist will review fit honestly and recommend next steps.
Serving commercial aquatic facilities across New York State.