WHAT IS CANDLE FILTRATION?
Candle filters are basic clay filters that are used to remove turbidity, suspended debris, and pathogens from drinking water. Physical processes such as mechanical entrapment and adsorption on ceramic candles with micro-scale pores are used to remove the particles. Water is put into the upper container and runs down via a candle at the bottom. The water is collected in the lower container once it has flowed through the candle. This method treats the water while also storing it safely until it is needed. The filters are simple to put together and do not require any energy. Scrubbing with a brush on a regular basis is required, as is adequate care during transportation and use. They can be built from locally accessible materials, which will help to boost local trade.
Cleaning a candle is necessary on a regular basis, especially if the flow rate has slowed. To clean the candle, use a gentle scrubber brush or cloth to (gently) scrub the candle surface to remove any accumulated debris. Cleaning should be done with only clean water (no soap, chlorine, or other chemicals). During cleaning, the candle should not be touched with dirty hands or placed on a dirty surface. Cleaning the storage containers, tap, and lid with soap and water should be done on a regular basis.
An upper and lower container, one or more ceramic candles in between, a tap, and a cover make up a candle filter. The containers usually have a diameter of about 30 cm and a depth of about 25 cm, with an 8-liter treatment capacity and a flow rate of 1-2 L per hour per candle. The ceramic candles are screwed into the top container's base. A tap is attached to the lower container, allowing safe water to be withdrawn without fear of recontamination. To prevent contamination, the upper container is covered with a lid.
WHAT IS CANDLE FILTER MADE OF?
Because their candles are constructed of ceramic or porcelain, candle type filters are also known as Ceramic candle filters. It is a less expensive, straightforward, and simple to clean and use equipment. The micro-scale pores in the ceramic candles absorb turbidity, suspended debris, and pathogens, making the water drinkable.
HOW DOES CANDLE FILTRATION WORKS?
Water runs through the candle and accumulates in the lower container after being put into the upper container. Through mechanical trapping and adsorption in micro-scale pores of ceramic candles, turbidity, suspended debris, and pathogens are removed from water. For more effective pathogen eradication, colloidal silver is occasionally used in candles.
EFFECTIVENESS OF CANDLE FILTRATION
Ceramic candle filters remove bacteria, protozoa, helminths, and turbidity from water effectively. It also eliminates certain viruses and iron, and improves the flavour, fragrance, and colour of water. The filter's efficacy is also influenced by the quality of the filter's construction, the quality of the starting water, and the users' handling habits. Highly turbid or iron-containing water can readily plug candle pores, necessitating more regular cleaning of the container and candle. Before putting the water into the filter, it should be pre-settled in this situation. Raw water with less iron (0.3mg/L) and turbidity (5NTU) is preferred.
PROS OF CANDLE FILTRATION
1. Cheap, straightforward, and simple to use and clean
2. Pathogens, turbidity, and suspended particles are all removed.
3. For the elimination of viruses and iron, it is somewhat successful.
4. Enhances the flavour, odour, and colour of water
5. It's possible to build it out of locally sourced materials.
6. Maintains the temperature of the water and ensures its safety.
7. Durable, portable, and easy to transfer (except clay pot)
CONS OF CANDLE FILTRATION
1. Does not eliminate all pathogens
2. Chemical pollutants and colour are not removed.
3. Candle pores are clogged by highly turbid or iron-containing water.
4. Low rate of flow
5. Due to its fragility and large weight, ceramic candles and clay containers are difficult to move.
In local production, quality control is difficult to achieve.