Iron is one of the most common elements found in the earth's crust.  It often exists in soluble form in ground water supplies and may be carried along in surface water.  And while not as common as iron, manganese is also often found in these water supplies. 

Typical source water concentrations do not pose a health risk but their presence can have other negative effects.  In drinking water supplies, bacteria which nourish on iron and manganese, can thrive when present leading to taste and odor issues.  In addition, once oxidized iron and manganese precipitates may foul distribution systems, and stain fixtures and clothing.  In industrial applications iron and manganese may reduce the efficiency of heating exchange systems or prevent use of the final product.

The most common treatment process steps for iron and manganese removal consists of oxidation to convert from the soluble to insoluble state, detention to allow a filterable floc to form, and filtration for removal of the precipitated particulate.  Depending on size of system and concentrations of iron and manganese present, the equipment utilized for each of these steps may vary to most efficiently remove the contaminants.a

Small amounts of iron are often found in water because of the large amount of iron present in the soil and because corrosive water will pick up iron from pipes. Clothing washed in water containing excessive iron may become stained a brownish color. The taste of beverages, such as tea and coffee, may also be affected by iron.

Manganese produces a brownish color in laundered clothing, leaves black particles on fixtures and as with iron, affects the taste of beverages, including coffee and tea.

Siemens Water Technologies specializes in iron and manganese removal systems to help water treatment plants deal with these problems.

Iron and Manganese Removal Technologies for your Drinking Water Treatment Applications:
Aerators
Filters and Filtration Systems
Packaged Water Treatment Plants

Siemens also provides pilot treatment systems and analytical testing to document the efficacy of treatment prior to installation. We also provide parts and service on all of our equipment, as well as equipment which may have been provided by other manufacturers.