Pro-OX vs Filox vs Greensand: Iron Filter Media Compared

We often get questions about iron filter media here at Clean Water Systems. Many people seem overwhelmed by the breadth of options available when shopping for an iron filter, and with all sorts of tanks, valves, and filter media available, it’s not hard to see why. Iron filters contain iron filter media, a type of granular filter media that removes iron and often manganese. Aeration can significantly enhance the effectiveness of iron filter media by improving the reaction between dissolved oxygen and iron compounds.

That’s why we wanted to take some time to explain the differences between popular filter media so that next time you shop for one, you can confidently make the right choice. Some advanced filtration media can also remove color from water, ensuring cleaner and clearer water for various applications.

What is Pro-OX Iron Filter Media?

• Pro-OX, Filox, MangOX, and Pyrolox are all solid manganese dioxide iron filter media.
• Made with over 80% pure manganese dioxide, processed specifically for water treatment.
• Considered the gold standard compared to lower-purity alternatives (often under 50%).

Why Choose Pro-OX?

• Used in our Pro-OX-AIR iron filter systems for reliable iron and manganese removal.
• More powerful and longer-lasting than many other media options.
• Easy-to-replace media for user-friendly maintenance.

Solid vs. Coated Manganese Media

Solid media (e.g., Pro-OX, Pyrolox, MangOX):

• High purity
• Longer lifespan (some customers still use media from 1990!)
• Requires higher backwash flow rates

Coated media (e.g., Greensand, Birm®):

• Manganese oxide coating over silica or other base
• Lighter and easier to backwash
• Shorter lifespan (Greensand lasts ~5 years)

Performance & Maintenance Considerations

• Solid media weighs 120–140 lbs per cubic foot
• Greensand weighs ~80 lbs per cubic foot
• Solid media requires a higher backwash flow rate
• Ideal system flow rate: ~6 GPM per cubic foot

Cost & Trade-Offs

Solid manganese media:

• Higher cost, longer life
• Greater oxidizing power
• Supports higher service flow rates

Coated media:

• Lower cost, lighter weight
• Better for systems with low backwash capacity

Treatment Enhancements & Alternatives

• Chlorine feeders help oxidize iron and eliminate iron bacteria before filtration
• Coconut shell carbon is great for removing VOCs
• Birm® may not be ideal for all iron treatment applications

Introduction

Iron filter media is a crucial component in water treatment systems, designed to remove dissolved iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide from water. The effectiveness of iron filter media depends on several factors, including its purity, density, and surface area. With various types of iron filter media available, it’s essential to understand their characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages to make an informed decision.

Types of Iron Filter Media

Several types of iron filter media are available, each with unique characteristics and advantages. Some of the most common types include solid manganese dioxide filter media, coated manganese media, and Katalox Light. Solid manganese dioxide filter media is considered the gold standard in iron filter media due to its high purity and effectiveness.

Coated manganese media, such as Greensand, use a light, manufactured coating of manganese oxide over silica or other granular minerals. Katalox Light, on the other hand, is a revolutionary product that outperforms contemporary filter media, with a lightweight and high-filtration surface.

Media Characteristics

The characteristics of iron filter media play a crucial role in its effectiveness. Factors such as purity, density, and surface area can significantly impact the media’s ability to remove dissolved iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide.

For example, solid manganese dioxide filter media has a higher purity (>80%) and density (120-140 lbs per cubic foot) compared to coated manganese media. Katalox Light, with its unique MnO2 coating technique on ZEOSORB, provides a lightweight, high-filtration surface and longer service life. Understanding the characteristics of each media type is vital to selecting the right media for your water treatment application.

Water Treatment Applications

Iron filter media is used in various water treatment applications, including residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal systems. The media is designed to remove dissolved iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide, and other contaminants such as arsenic, zinc, copper, and uranium.

In addition to iron removal, Katalox Light is also effective in reducing heavy metals, silica, and other radionuclides. The media’s effectiveness in removing these contaminants makes it an essential component in water treatment systems.

Media Selection Factors

When selecting iron filter media, several factors must be considered, including lifespan, service flow rate, cost, and flow rate. Solid manganese dioxide filter media is generally preferred for its longer lifespan and higher service flow rate. However, coated manganese media may be a better option for users with insufficient well pump flow rates or those who prioritize affordability.

Katalox Light, with its lightweight and high filtration surface, is an excellent option for those looking for a reliable and effective medium. Factors such as backwash requirements, bed depth, and pH range must also be considered to ensure optimal performance. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the right iron filter media for your specific water treatment needs.

Resources:

• USDA Forest Service. (1999). Iron and manganese removal handbook (Publication No. 9971-1308-SDTDC). U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.fs.usda.gov/t-d/pubs/pdf/99711308.pdf