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Wedgewater™ Polyurethane Filter Media

Interlocking polyurethane tiles — economical, corrosion-proof, practically indestructible.

What It Is

The Wedgewater™ Polyurethane Filter Media consists of 12″ × 12″ × 2″ interlocking high-strength polyurethane tiles designed for gravity sludge dewatering. Developed in 1978 as a more economical and corrosion-proof alternative to stainless steel wedgewire, this media has proven itself over four decades of continuous service at facilities across the country.

Four Reasons to Use Wedgewater™

Non-Clogging Design

2% open area with built-in underdrain system eliminates the clogging problems that plague other media types.

Fraction of Sand Bed Space

Achieves the same or better dewatering results in a dramatically smaller footprint than conventional sand drying beds.

Practically Indestructible

Corrosion-resistant, abrasion-resistant, and nonconductive. GFSS has installations from the late 1970s with original media still in service.

Fast Dewatering Cycle

Flocculated sludge dewaters to a liftable, truckable state in days. Dewatered cake is removed with a standard front-end loader.

Why Polyurethane vs. Stainless Steel?

  • Lower capital cost — ideal for budget-constrained projects without sacrificing performance.
  • Superior corrosion resistance — the right choice for septage, industrial, and chemically aggressive sludge streams.
  • Zero replacement cost — the media is practically indestructible under normal operating conditions.
  • Same filtrate quality — typically < 30 ppm suspended solids, comparable to stainless steel.

Performance Data

Filtrate Quality < 30 ppm suspended solids (typical)
Sludge Concentration Range 1–5%
Tile Dimensions 12″ × 12″ × 2″
Open Area 2%
Material High-strength polyurethane

Key Benefits

  • Non-clogging design with 2% open area and built-in underdrain
  • Requires only a fraction of sand bed space
  • Practically indestructible — corrosion and abrasion resistant
  • Flocculated sludge dewaters to liftable state in days
  • More economical than stainless steel for many applications
  • No media loss or replacement cost

Applications

  • Municipal WWTP sludge
  • Industrial process sludge
  • Septage and vacuum truck waste
  • Corrosive or abrasive sludge types

Frequently Asked Questions

How does polyurethane media compare to stainless steel wedgewire?
Polyurethane Wedgewater™ media offers similar dewatering performance at a lower capital cost. It’s particularly advantageous in corrosive environments (industrial, septage) where stainless steel may not be necessary. Both achieve filtrate quality under 30 ppm SS.
How long does the polyurethane media last?
The high-strength polyurethane is practically indestructible under normal operating conditions. It resists corrosion, abrasion, and UV degradation. GFSS has installations from the late 1970s with original media still in service.
What sludge concentrations can the media handle?
Wedgewater™ polyurethane media handles sludge concentrations from 1–5%, which covers the range of most municipal and industrial applications.

Ready to simplify your solids management?