At WEFTEC this year, Xylem highlighted its Leopold Type 360 underdrain — a bolt-down underdrain system for greenfield projects and rehabilitation of water treatment filtration projects. It includes an innovative 360-degree backwash capability designed to boost efficiency by up to 20 percent.

The bolt-down solution is engineered for reliability with an uplift resistance of over 15 psi. The design includes slots and orifices around the entire underdrain to help clean the filter media from every angle during the backwash process. This eliminates media dead zones that can develop due to gaps in backwashing coverage.

By washing 100 percent of the media between laterals, the underdrain increases filter run times, reduces backwash water consumption and extends media filter life, leading to lower operating costs and energy savings. The underdrain is compatible with all standard flume and air configurations. With lateral lengths over 40 feet, it is suited for long filter runs and retrofits of existing filters. The modular underdrain blocks are easy to handle and snap together for quick installation.

The Type 360 underdrain helps solve challenges in biologically active filtration systems, indirect and direct potable reuse applications, new drinking water applications addressing the U.S. EPA LT2 rules on contaminants of emerging concern, and the rehabilitation of existing media filters.

Durable reinforced polymer maximizes strength against harsh elements while reducing overall weight for easier transport and installation. The polymer matrix is corrosion-free. Self-cleaning technology removes sediment buildup in the underdrain over time.