Calcite PH Correction Filtration Media
Calcite water filtration media is a naturally-occurring mineral rock that is widely used in residential and commercial water treatment applications. Composed mainly of calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate, calcite is known for its ability to neutralize acidic or low pH water, reducing corrosiveness and balancing pH levels.
With a slow-acting mechanism, calcite efficiently controls the pH neutralization of low hardness water, particularly with pH levels ranging from 5.0 to 6.9. For larger pH corrections, calcite can be blended with Corosex, with a recommended ratio of up to 50% Corosex. However, it's advisable to seek guidance if the pH level falls below 5.0.
There are several advantages to using calcite as a water filtration media. It is a natural and cost-effective solution that has a fairly wide range of effectiveness. One of its key benefits is being self-limiting, meaning it only corrects the pH enough to reach a non-corrosive equilibrium. Additionally, calcite is certified to meet the NSF/ANSI Standard 60.
Despite its advantages, calcite does have some drawbacks. Its slow action may result in incomplete neutralization below pH 6.0. Furthermore, using calcite can increase water hardness by introducing calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate ions. It is common to use a water softener alongside a calcite filter if the original water hardness exceeds 5 grains per gallon.
Due to variations in water chemistry and temperature, the calcite media needs to be replenished periodically based on water usage and chemistry parameters. Calcite filters are equipped with media fill ports for easy addition of the media. These filters can be operated in downflow with a backwash control valve or in upflow with an "in/out" head, with a gravel support bed typically recommended.
Overall, calcite water filtration media provides an efficient and economical solution for neutralizing and balancing pH levels in water treatment applications.