Filtralite® Filter Media: Proven Technology for Higher Efficiency, Better Water Quality, and Lower Costs
With the continuous increase in water demand and rising operational costs, water treatment, wastewater, and desalination plants are under growing pressure to achieve higher efficiency with lower expenditure. This is where Filtralite®, a high-performance expanded clay filter media developed by Saint-Gobain, stands out as one of the world’s most advanced and reliable filtration solutions delivering superior treatment efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and long-term operational savings.
The Real Challenge in Filtration Systems
Why Traditional Media Are No Longer Enough
Many plants still rely on conventional filtration media such as sand and anthracite, which face several operational challenges, including:
-High head loss
-Rapid filter clogging
-Media layer intermixing
-High operation and maintenance costs
-Limited performance with poor raw water quality
These issues directly impact plant efficiency and long-term sustainability.
Experts Driving Innovation
Filtralite® solutions are backed by deep industry expertise led by Eng. Mohamed Kastawy, Area Sales Manager for the Middle East, with more than 20 years of experience in pumps, desalination, and water treatment. This strong background ensures solutions that are practical, proven, and results-driven.
Saint-Gobain & LECA
A Global Industrial Foundation
Filtralite® is a product of the global Saint-Gobain Group, through LECA International—one of the leaders in advanced engineered materials. This affiliation reflects a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable performance.
What Is Filtralite®?
Advanced Filter Media Technology
Filtralite® is a filter media made from expanded clay, characterized by its lightweight structure and highly porous surface. These properties allow superior particle retention while maintaining high filtration rates. Filtralite® can also be used as a direct replacement for sand and anthracite, without complex system modifications.
One Solution, Multiple Applications
Where Is Filtralite® Used?
Filtralite® is a proven expanded clay filter media used in drinking water treatment plants, wastewater treatment plants, and pre-treatment systems for desalination plants. Its product portfolio includes:
- Filtralite® Pure – designed for drinking water treatment and pre-treatment for desalination plants.
- Filtralite® Clean – developed for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment applications.
- Filtralite® Air – engineered for odour control and air/gas purification systems.
Filtralite® has been successfully installed in more than 500 water treatment plants worldwide, including drinking water & wastewater facilities across more than 60 countries, demonstrating its reliability, efficiency, and long-term operational performance.
Operational Performance That Makes the Difference
Numbers That Prove the Advantage
Filtralite® delivers clear operational benefits, including:
-2 to 4 times fewer backwash cycles
-Filtration rates reaching up to 20 m/h
-Reduced energy and water consumption
-Improved water quality indicators such as SDI and TOC
-Reduced biofouling and extended RO membrane lifetime
The result is more than 50% savings in operational costs at the filtration stage.
Filtralite® Revolutionizes Wastewater Treatment at Vestfjorden Plant
At the Vestfjorden Wastewater Treatment Plant, Filtralite® has set a new benchmark in water treatment by enhancing quality and operational efficiency, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Challenges:
- Conventional filter media limited treatment efficiency.
- Frequent backwash cycles increased operational costs.
- Stricter environmental standards required improved water quality.
Solution:
- Transitioned to Filtralite® for superior filtration performance.
- Leveraged lightweight, high-porosity media to boost efficiency.
Results:
- Crystal-clear water like never before.
- Significant reduction in backwash cycles.
- Lowered energy and operating costs.
- Stable, sustainable, high-performance operation.
Smarter Investment for the Future
Lower CAPEX and Faster ROI
Beyond operational savings, Filtralite® offers strong investment advantages:
-Up to 50% reduction in the number of filtration cells
-Smaller pumps and reduced concrete and steel requirements
-Service life of up to 25 years
-Return on investment in less than 3 years
Conclusion
Filtralite® is not just filter media it is a complete filtration solution that redefines efficiency in water and desalination plants. For operators seeking higher performance, better water quality, and lower costs, Filtralite® is the smart choice for a more efficient and sustainable future.
Contact Eng. Mohammed Kastawy Area Sales Manager – MENA Region Mobile: +971565503535 Email : mohammed.kastawy@saint-gobain.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com
