Description
AFM® Grades
AFM comes in different grades depending on the application:
- AFM Grade 0 – 0.25mm – 0.50mm – Ultra-fine filtration for critical applications.
- AFM Grade 1 – 0.40mm – 1.0mm – Filters down to 1 micron, ideal for swimming pools and high-performance filtration.
- AFM Grade 2 – 1.00mm – 2.00mm – General filtration media.
- AFM Grade 3 – 2.00mm – 4.00mm – Coarser media used as a base layer in filters.
Applications
- Swimming Pools & Spas – Reduces chlorine demand and improves water clarity.
- Drinking Water Treatment – Ensures high purity and reduces chemical usage.
- Wastewater Treatment – Improves effluent quality and reduces sludge production.
- Aquariums & Aquaculture – Provides safe, clear water for fish and marine life.
- Industrial Water Treatment – Used in cooling towers and process water filtration.
Comparison of AFM vs Silica Sand vs Standard Glass Media
Filtration Performance:
- Drydan Aqua AFM – Filters down to 1 micron (without flocculants).
- Silica Sand – Typically filters 20-40 microns.
- Standard Glass Media – Filters 5-15 microns.
Bacteria Resistance:
- Drydan Aqua AFM – Self-sterilizing, prevents biofilm formation.
- Silica Sand – Bacteria & biofilm can develop.
- Standard Glass Media – Somewhat resistant but not as effective as AFM®.
Longevity:
- Drydan Aqua AFM – Indefinite lifespan (does not degrade).
- Silica Sand – 5-7 years before replacement.
- Standard Glass Media – 8-10 years before replacement.
Backwashing Efficiency:
- Drydan Aqua AFM – Requires less backwashing, saving water and energy.
- Silica Sand – Requires frequent backwashing.
- Standard Glass Media – Moderate backwashing needs.
Chemical Demand:
- Drydan Aqua AFM – Reduces chlorine demand by 50%.
- Silica Sand – High chlorine demand due to biofilm formation.
- Standard Glass Media – Moderate chlorine demand.
Environmental Impact:
- Drydan Aqua AFM – 100% recycled glass, eco-friendly.
- Silica Sand – Extracted from natural resources.
- Standard Glass Media – Recycled glass, but lower performance than AFM®.
AFM® vs. Silica Sand: AFM® offers far superior filtration (1 micron vs. 20-40 microns), lasts longer, and prevents biofilm formation, reducing chlorine consumption and maintenance.
AFM® vs. Standard Glass Media: While both are made from recycled glass, AFM® is chemically activated for better performance, offering self-sterilization and finer filtration.
* For Borehole, Well Water, River Water and/or Dam Water, it is always advised to get the water tested trough as SANAS accredited water lab in accordance with SANS241 minimum recommendation for human consumption, before purchasing any water filtration equipment.
* The information and recommendations in this publication are based on data we believe to be reliable. They are offered in good faith, but do not imply any warranty or performance guarantee, as conditions and methods of use of the products are beyond our control. As such, Osmotech (Pty) Ltd makes no express or implied warranties of any kind with respect to this product, including but not limited to any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
* The filter media listed on this product page do not remove or kill bacteria. Do not use with water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate disinfection before or after the system.




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