Working Principle and Application Areas of Disc Filters

What Is a Disc Filter?

Disc filters are among the most commonly used filtration components in drip irrigation systems.
They efficiently remove particles, clay, and organic materials from the water, preventing the irrigation lines from clogging.
Due to their durable structure and backwash (self-cleaning) capability, disc filters are known for their long service life and reliable performance.

Working Principle of a Disc Filter

Disc filters take their name from the stack of grooved plastic discs inside the filter body. These discs are tightly compressed together, forming a highly effective filtration medium.

The working process can be explained in three stages:

Filtration Stage:
Water flows from the outer surface of the disc stack toward the inner core.
The micro-grooves on the discs trap suspended particles, allowing only clean water to pass through to the outlet.
Dirt and debris accumulate on the surface of the discs.

Clogging and Pressure Increase:
As impurities build up, water flow resistance increases, causing a pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the filter.

Backwashing Stage:
When the pressure difference reaches a preset level, the system switches to manual or automatic backwashing.
Water is forced in the reverse direction, loosening the disc stack and flushing out the trapped debris.
After cleaning, the discs compress again, and normal filtration resumes.

Application Areas of Disc Filters

Disc filters are versatile and widely used in various systems, including:

Drip and micro-sprinkler irrigation systems
Greenhouses and landscape irrigation
Field irrigation with surface or groundwater sources
Industrial water treatment systems
Recycled or wastewater treatment plants

Advantages of Disc Filters

High filtration precision (typically between 40–200 microns)
Low maintenance due to automatic backwash function
Long lifespan and high durability
Modular design for easy installation and cleaning
Suitable for both clean and moderately contaminated water sources

Discs should be checked and cleaned periodically.

For heavily contaminated water, a sand filter or hydrocyclone separator should be installed before the disc filter.
Operating pressure should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations (usually between 2–8 bar).

Disc filters offer an effective, economical, and reliable filtration solution for drip irrigation systems.
With regular maintenance and proper system design, they operate smoothly for years—enhancing both plant health and irrigation efficiency.