Iron and manganese are commonly occurring substances in groundwater and well water. Elevated concentrations may cause discoloration, deposits, fouling of pipes, as well as taste and odour issues. These issues are usually aesthetic rather than health related but can significantly affect water quality and equipment.
Common Symptoms
- Yellow or brown coloured water
- Rust-coloured deposits
- Black deposits caused by manganese
- Staining of laundry and sanitary fixtures
- Build-up in pipes and equipment
Suitable for
- Groundwater
- Well Water
- Iron-rich Water
- Manganese-rich Water
- Water with discoloration or deposits
Common Treatment Methods
- Aeration
- Ozone Oxidation
- Iron and Manganese Filters
- Sand or Multimedia Filters
- Fine Filtration
- Ozone is used in some treatment systems to rapidly oxidize dissolved iron and manganese into particles that can subsequently be removed by filtration.
When iron or manganese is oxidized, it is effectively transformed from a dissolved substance into solid oxygen-containing compounds. Iron forms rust-like particles while manganese forms solid manganese oxides. These particles can then be removed through filtration, which is the basis of most iron and manganese removal systems.
Advantages
- Well-established technology
- Can provide crystal clear water
- Reduces staining and deposits
- Protects equipment and pipework
Limitations
- Often requires proper pH and oxygen levels
- Requires regular backwashing or maintenance
- Does not remove salts or fluoride
- May need to be combined with other treatment stages
Example Treatment Trains
Well Water
↓
Aeration
↓
Iron Filter
↓
Fine Filtration
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Drinking Water
Well Water
↓
Aeration
↓
Iron and Manganese Filter
↓
Fine Filtration
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Drinking Water
Well Water
↓
Oxidation
↓
Manganese Filter
↓
Fine Filtration
↓
Drinking Water
Iron is often present as dissolved iron in groundwater and may give the water a yellow, yellow-brown, orange or reddish-brown appearance. When exposed to air, the iron oxidizes and forms visible precipitates that can cause staining, sediment and deposits. Analysis of iron, manganese, pH, alkalinity and dissolved oxygen is often important when selecting the appropriate treatment solution.