Products
Birm Filters
Catalytic media filtration for iron and manganese removal from groundwater.
Overview
Basiia supplies Birm (Burgess Iron Removal Media) pressure filter systems for removal of dissolved iron and manganese from groundwater without chemical regeneration. Birm acts as a catalyst to accelerate the oxidation of dissolved ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) and manganous manganese (Mn²⁺) to their insoluble forms, which are then filtered from the water. Unlike greensand filters, Birm does not require potassium permanganate regeneration — reducing operating costs and chemical handling. Birm filters are widely used for potable water production from iron-bearing groundwater in remote camps, rural communities, and industrial facilities.
Typical Applications
- Iron removal from groundwater for potable water production
- Manganese removal from groundwater
- Remote camp and community water supply
- Agricultural and irrigation water treatment
- Industrial process water from iron-bearing aquifers
- Pre-treatment ahead of RO systems (iron fouling prevention)
- Boiler feed water iron removal
- Swimming pool and recreational water iron treatment
Key Features
Engineered for Performance
Catalytic Iron Oxidation
Birm media catalyses the oxidation of dissolved ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) to ferric iron (Fe³⁺) using dissolved oxygen in the feed water — precipitating insoluble iron hydroxide that is retained in the media bed and removed by backwash.
No Chemical Regeneration
Unlike greensand (which requires potassium permanganate regeneration), Birm media is regenerated by backwashing with water alone — eliminating chemical handling, storage, and disposal costs.
Dissolved Oxygen Pre-Treatment
Aeration pre-treatment (cascade aerator, spray nozzle, or pressure aerator) to raise dissolved oxygen above 15% of the iron concentration — ensuring sufficient oxidant for catalytic iron removal.
pH Adjustment
pH correction to 6.8–8.5 using soda ash or caustic dosing — maintaining the optimal pH range for Birm catalytic activity and preventing media passivation.
Pressure Vessel Design
Vertical pressure vessels in carbon steel (epoxy-lined), FRP, and 316L stainless steel — with internal distribution headers, Birm media support underdrain, and manway access for media inspection.
Automated Backwash
Automated backwash initiated by differential pressure or timed cycle — expanding the Birm bed to release accumulated iron precipitates and restore media activity.
Applicable Standards
- ISO 9001
- ASME VIII Div. 1 (pressure vessels)
- NSF/ANSI 61 (Birm media for potable water contact)
- WHO Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality
- Local potable water regulations
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Discuss Your Birm Filters Requirements
Our engineering team is available to review your project requirements and provide a technical proposal. Contact us to start the conversation.