Work out turbidity removal efficiency instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Turbidity removal is assessed stage by stage because each barrier has its own performance expectation: clarification should achieve 85-95% removal to deliver settled water below 5 NTU, and filtration should then produce under 0.3 NTU. Filtered turbidity is a surrogate for pathogen removal, which is why it is regulated so tightly.
Removal efficiency
Removal % = (inlet - outlet) x 100 / inlet, applied at each stage
Filtered water turbidity is a regulated critical parameter monitored continuously. Exceedances require notification and may require a boil-water advisory.
Because filtered turbidity correlates with removal of Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts, which are chlorine resistant. Turbidity is the practical continuous surrogate for that barrier's integrity.
Filter breakthrough or a coagulation upset, and a possible pathogen passage event. Post-backwash turbidity spikes are a particular risk and are managed with filter-to-waste.