UFC 3-280-04
17 DEC 2003
CHAPTER 7
COST CONSIDERATIONS
7-1
INTRODUCTION. There are numerous manufacturers providing a wide range
of filtration products. As a result, equipment and component pricing and quality can vary
considerably. Figure 7-1 qualitatively compares costs for various filtration systems.
The total cost of a filtration system, however, is more than just the component
and maintenance cost. It depends on numerous other factors that may be related to the
filtration system itself, or may be controlled by the overall waste stream treatment sys-
tem. These cost considerations include the following.
Figure 7-1. Relative Cost Comparisons
7-2
FLOW CONSISTENCY. Some filtration systems can work well with varying
flows while others, such as continuous backwash filters, need a constant flow. If the
waste stream is characterized by peak and low flows then certain systems may require
flow equalization to function properly. Flow equalization, depending on the treatment
setup, can require holding tanks and even additional pumping, all of which add to the
capital as well as operating costs.
On the other hand, if the waste stream is being pumped from groundwater
extraction wells at a constant rate 24 hours per day, then flow equalization is not a
7-1
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