MERC ER01-14
21
9. FXIT-30.1
9.1. FXIT 30.1 COMM
Prior to any formal testing, a mechanical commissioning run of the Filtrex system using a
30 µm filtration mesh size was provided to assure appropriate treatment operations. This run
was used to identify and correct initial mechanical or operating issues. During the
commissioning process the feed pump capacity was adjusted at 310 m
3
/hr, the outlet throttling
valve was adjusted, the back wash delta pressure set point was established, and instantaneous and
accumulated data logging was set up. Data collected during commissioning was only used for
test preparations and is not provided in the final report.
After treatment system commissioning was completed and accepted by Filtrex, MERC
conducted a third trial to evaluate the 30-µm filtration mesh size for biological efficacy (FXIT-
30.1-NTL). The MERC barge piping system was set in the sea-to-sea configuration using
natural Baltimore Harbor water. The biological efficacy trials focused exclusively on live
organisms ≥50
µ
m and ≥10 - <50
µ
m in size.
Note that for this trial, Filtrex requested a flow of 340-360 m
3
/hr (28-29 Nov emails).
However, the specific configuration of the MERC test facility did not allow for flow greater than
310 m
3
/hr for this series of filter tests. Filtrex requested (and was provided) 1.3 to 1.6 bar of
backpressure to the Filtrex filter system.
9.2. FXIT-30.1-NTL
(9 Dec 2013)
Natural harbor water.
NTL Physical Data
Measured in the challenge and treated overflow drums at three time points using a multi-
parameter instrument.
NTL Challenge (pre-filter)
Time
Point
Temp
(C)
Salinity
(psu)
Dissolved
Oxygen
(mg/L)
Dissolved
Oxygen
(%)
TP1
6.2
10.1
11.4
97
TP2
6.3
10.3
11.7
100
TP3
6.1
10.2
11.8
100
