Based on the provided reference, Silica Sand is highlighted as a long-standing and trusted medium suitable for applications commonly associated with pump systems in filtration contexts.
Understanding Sand for Filtration Systems
When people refer to "sand for a sand pump," they are typically talking about the type of sand used as the filter medium within a sand filter, which is connected to a pump (often called a filter pump or pool pump). The pump pushes water through the sand, which traps impurities.
Silica Sand: A Trusted Filtration Choice
According to the reference, Silica Sand is a traditional and reliable option for pool filters. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to capture debris of a specific size.
- Particle Trapping: Silica sand effectively traps particles that are 20 microns or larger. This means many common types of dirt, leaves, and sediment are removed as water passes through the sand bed.
- Trusted History: It is described as a long standing, trusted medium for pool filters, indicating its proven track record and reliability in water purification systems.
- Complementary Treatment: The reference notes that anything smaller than 20 microns (particles not trapped by the sand) would typically be treated by chlorine, highlighting how sand filtration works in conjunction with other water treatment methods.
While other materials like Clinobrite are newer alternatives on the market, Silica Sand remains a benchmark due to its established performance.
| Filter Medium | Status (per reference) | Particle Size Trapped |
|---|---|---|
| Silica Sand | Long standing, trusted | 20 microns or larger |
| Clinobrite | Newer on the market | (Not specified) |
How Sand Filtration Works (Briefly)
In a sand filter system, water is pumped into the top of the filter tank, which is filled with a layer of filter sand (like silica sand). The water is pushed down through the sand bed. As water passes between the sand particles, suspended solid contaminants are trapped within the pores of the sand. Clean water then flows out from the bottom of the filter back into the pool or system. Periodically, the filter needs to be backwashed to clean the accumulated debris out of the sand.
Considering its proven history and effectiveness in trapping particles 20 microns and larger, as noted in the reference, Silica Sand is presented as a reliable choice for sand filter systems commonly associated with pumps.
