Filtration methods, system and apparatus for pfas water and wastewater treatment

Abstract

A method, system and devices for filtering contaminants and potential contaminants from water, wastewater or other fluid, and in particular the vessels that may be assembled and arranged in configurations to have adjustable capacity for utilization, and ease of recharging the filter media, and which are transportable. The vessel comprises end portions that assemble to a body portion that provides a space for holding filter media, and includes an inlet and outlet, and fittings to connect the vessel to receive an inflow and deliver an outflow. The vessel may include a holder or base to facilitate transport thereof. The system includes one or more vessels, and also may provide an enclosure for housing vessels in a treatment configuration, and which provides ease of access and accommodations for accessories and other equipment.

Description

FILTRATION METHODS, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FORPFAS WATER AND WASTEWATER TREATMENT BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of water and wastewater filtering, sampling and monitoring of substances in water and wastewater, including contaminants and potential contaminants, and other substances, and to systems, devices and methods for treatment of water and wastewater, and more particularly to systems, apparatus and methods for filtering and / or treating water and wastewater, and a system of, and configurable, water filtration vessels and connection arrangements which have an adjustable capacity, can be modified, adjusted, recharged, and which are transportable.2. Brief Description of the Related Art

[0002] Water and wastewater are typically monitored for substances which may be potential pollutants toxins or other harmful substances. A category of pollutants are polyfluoroalkyl substances commonly referred to as "PFAS". Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of human-made chemicals that are found in various consumer products and industrial applications. The PFAS are commonly referred to as "forever chemicals", and also within the group of PFAS are perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). PFAS are widely used, long lasting chemicals, components of which break down very slowly over time. Because of their widespread usage, PFAS work their way into the water systems and other ecosystems. PFAS widespread use and persistence in the environment has resulted in many individuals and animals having PFAS in their blood. This is not limited to one geographic area, but is common worldwide. PFAS also are present at low levels in a variety of food products and in the environment, including for example in water, air, fish, and soil at locations worldwide. A number of studies have linked environmental PFAS to negative health effects in humans and other animals. The numbers of PFAS chemicals are vast, as there are thousands of PFAS chemicals which are widely used and can be found in a variety of consumer, household, commercial, and industrial products.

[0003] Therefore, water that serves as a source for drinking water and other uses must be monitored, as well as treated when potential contaminant levels are present or are determined to be at levels that are designated by some health, legal or other standard, to be a potential hazard. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set for a regulation establishing requirements for maximum allowable levels for six PFAS in drinking water. This regulation, entitled, National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) establishes legally enforceable levels, called Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), for six PFAS and also sets forth non-enforceable Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs) for the PFAS. The levels are set out in TABLE 1 below:

[0004] TABLE 1FinalCompound Final MCL (enforceable levels) MCLG4.0 parts per trillion (ppt) (also PFOA Zeroexpressed as ng / L)PFOS Zero 4.0 pptPFHxS 10 ppt 10 pptPFNA 10 ppt 10 pptI IFPO-DA (commonly known as GenX Chemicals) 10 ppt 10 ppt1 (unitless)1 (unitless)Mixtures containing two or more of PFHxS, PFNA,HFPO-DA, and PFBS HazardHazard IndexIndex

[0005] The removal of PFAS from municipal water systems often employs pressure vessel systems designed with specific configurations to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of treatment processes. The most common configurations used in these systems are single column, parallel, and lead-lag setups. Each configuration offers distinct advantages and is chosen based on specific water treatment needs, operational flexibility, and system scalability. Smith, J. and Lee, R. (2020). “Advanced Filtration Techniques for PFAS Removal”. Journal of Water Quality.

[0006] Single Column Configuration

[0007] The single column configuration consists of one vessel containing adsorbent media, typically activated carbon or ion exchange resins, which trap PFAS as contaminated water flows through. This configuration is straightforward and is used for systems with lower flow rates or where space is limited. It provides ease of maintenance and simplicity in operation. However, its major limitation is the downtime required for media replacement or regeneration, during which the system must be offline. Green, H. (2019). “Simplifying Water Treatment: Applications of Single Column Systems.” Water and Wastewater Management.

[0008] Parallel Configuration

[0009] In a parallel configuration, multiple columns operate simultaneously, each handling a portion of the total flow. This setup is beneficial for systems with high flow rates, as it distributes the water load and reduces the strain on any single column. One significant advantage of this configuration is the redundancy it provides; if one column requires maintenance or media replacement, the remaining columns can continue to operate, thereby minimizing downtime. Additionally, parallel systems can be expanded easily by adding more columns, making them suitable for growing urban areas. Miller, T. (2018). “Design and Operation of Parallel Systems for Water Treatment”. Environmental Engineering Science.

[0010] Lead-Lag Configuration

[0011] The lead-lag configuration involves at least two columns set up in series, where the 'lead' column first receives the influent water, followed by the 'lag' column. This arrangement allows the lag column to act as a backup, enhancing the removal efficiency of PFAS by capturing any breakthroughfrom the lead column. Once the lead column reaches its adsorption capacity, it can be regenerated or replaced, and the roles of the lead and lag can be switched to maximize media usage and system uptime. This setup is particularly effective for achieving very low outlet concentrations of PF AS. Johnson, M. and Daniels, S. (2021). “Enhanced PF AS Removal through Lead-Lag Systems”. Journal of Hazardous Materials.

[0012] Pretreatment Design

[0013] Pretreatment designs for PF AS removal systems are crucial for protecting the main treatment components, extending media life, and improving overall system performance. Common pretreatment methods include sediment filtration, which removes particulates that could clog or foul the treatment media, and pH adjustment, which optimizes the water chemistry for better adsorption of PFAS. Additionally, some systems might include oxidation processes to break down certain PFAS compounds into shorter-chain compounds that are easier to remove. Effective pretreatment is essential for minimizing operational issues and ensuring the longevity of the pressure vessel systems. Lopez, A. (2017). “Pre-Treatment Strategies in Water Treatment Facilities”. Industrial Water Treatment Review.

[0014] Water filtration systems are known, including US Patent 8,702,917 B2 entitled, “Electrolytic cell and system for treating water” discloses a water treatment system having electrolytic cell for liberating hydrogen from a base solution. The apparatus has a cell chamber to receive the base solution. The cell chamber is bounded by a first and second electrode that are on opposite sides and are spaced apart from each other along the length of the cell chamber and electronically isolated from each other. The first and second electrodes receive opposite polarity charges to form a chemical reaction in the base solution as the base solution passes through the cell chamber.

[0015] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0166385 Al, entitled “Mobile Water Purification System and Method” discloses a mobile water purification system to be airlifted to a site requiring potable water. A pump receives raw water from a raw water source and pumps it to a pre-treatment module. The pre-treatment module includes a separator for removing suspended solids in the raw water. Ideally, the pre-treatment module includes a fine mesh screen downstream from the separator for removing solids of a predetermined size from the water flowing through the pre-treatment module before being discharged. Each filtration module may include a membrane filtration unit for removing bacteria, viruses, solids, organics, and dyes. Each of the filtration modules have an ultrafiltration unit for removing bacteria, viruses, solids, organics, and dyes.

[0016] US Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0098816 Al, entitled “Mobile Water Purification Station” relates to a mobile water purification station cable of producing up to 30,000 gallons of water per day and operates as a stand-alone unit powered by integrated solar array and wind generator or gravity feed from a water source located above the location of the unit. The water storage tanks comprise an intermediate water storage tank disposed within the enclosure and connected to the waterfiltration and purification units between the loose media activated carbon filters and the porous sintered metal pre-filters, first and second water treatment systems each comprising a sediment filter, a heavy metals filter, an activated carbon filter a first particle pre-filter and a second particle ultra-filter, the filters being plumbingly connected in series between inflow and outflow ports thereof.

[0017] European Patent 0 592 372 Bl, entitled “Transportable Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Unit” discloses a fully self-contained, reverse osmosis water purification container of potable permeate of blackish water, which is constructed by integrating known items of equipment into an International Standards Organization container or equivalent small space despite including a large “bladder” tank and a large “cleaning chemicals” tank, each of which tanks permits restoring the efficient operation of screen filters and RO membranes. The '372 device attempts to provide a combination of coarse and fine filtration means to remove suspended solids, an automatic self-cleaning means for a backflushable coarse screen filter means, and, only spiral flow RO modules arranged for first and second pass operation.

[0018] PFAS filtration systems have been attempted. The current systems typically utilize the traditional heavy tanks that require a forklift, and are not easily maneuvered without the use of costly, heavy equipment. Attempts have been made to utilize what are known as “bottle” style tanks, which can be man-portable, but often only through the use of hand trucks due to their weight. Another drawback is that the “bottle” style tanks also use a single inlet / outlet which can have negative impacts to media life due to channeling and hydraulic effects. Existing systems allow for service of tanks, apparatus, and media “off-site”, so expense and time is required to transport this equipment to a work location. Backwashing equipment, such as the tanks and media therein, typically is a process that may require the use of large tanker trucks or other collection equipment, where backwashing media effluent is required to be contained, and / or cannot be handled or disposed of at the site.

[0019] A need exists for methods and devices that can be readily deployable in the capacity needed, and whose capacity can be modified, adjusted, recharged, and which is transportable to and from a location, such as a site where the treatment is needed or is to take place, without the drawbacks of the prior methods and devices.SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0020] The systems, methods and apparatus for conducting PFAS treatment with process equipment and methods for deploying, installing and implementing the equipment to facilitate treatment of water and wastewater are provided. According to preferred embodiments and implementations, the systems, methods and apparatus comprise a modular system, which in some embodiments includes an enclosure (also referred to as a shell), and treatment process equipment that is engineered for use within the enclosure. The enclosure preferably is configured to include configurable components, such as for example door panels and plugs that may contain and provide optional equipment for the system.According to preferred embodiments, the treatment equipment is configurable to provide ready options for assembly and implementation. The equipment may be supplied in a modular form, with one or more, and preferably a plurality of module types that can be selected and assembled to provide a desired configuration. The configuration may be designed to handle a suitable volume, flow rate, filtration capacity (ppm to be filtered or removed), concentration, or other metric. The system equipment is designed to hold suitable material for filtering the water or wastewater to be treated using the system. The equipment preferably holds filter media, and according to preferred embodiments, is configured to allow for a desired media type or amount within the modular system. The system and apparatus also may hold different types of media, such as granular activated carbon (GAC) and / or ion exchange media types, and others. These can be provided in groups or trains to provide versatility in meeting the requirements for a given application (e.g., contaminant removal or neutralization). The inventive embodiments also provide apparatus and methods that allow for efficient maintenance of the system’s media life via media replacement and / or backwashing operations. The components of the system, such as vessels, are designed to provide ready access to the filter media. In addition to applying the method for the efficient maintenance of the modular system’s media life via media replacement and / or backwashing operations, there is provided an alternative method for backwashing non-modular PFAS treatment systems based on pressure vessels, by implementing one or more of the inventive vessels in a train or transportable unit.

[0021] In addition, the inventive system, methods and apparatus also are designed to extend the media life of almost any pressure vessel based PFAS treatment system via several options for controlling the flow through the treatment system.

[0022] Introduction to the Benefits

[0023] According to some embodiments, a containerized treatment system is provided where a container comprises an enclosure to house and provide access to a variety of internal treatment process equipment components, among which components may be included one or more of tanks, piping, valves, other appurtenances, controls systems, racking systems, dividers, diverters, pumps, flow regulators, electronics, and other associated elements used in conjunction with water flow and filtration, monitoring, operating and maintenance thereof. The enclosure may also be referred to as the “shell”. The shell is a preferred method of implementation, but according to some alternate implementations, the system and devices may be suitable for and configured for installation in an already existing location, such as an existing building that has suitable space for the system components, and therefore, the shell is not provided, but the system uses an existing space. The shell embodiments also may include replaceable components, such as modular door plugs or panels that can provide access as needed to the shell interior, as well as house equipment and accessories on or within the door plug.

[0024] The system and apparatus preferably comprises a housing or shell which is designed to house the components therein, such as the modular equipment that is configurable to comprise the filtration mechanisms. The shell provides several features that aid in the cost savings for the entire system stemming from flexibility for design and maintenance as well as standardized components across many installations for economies of scale. One of the features of the systems, methods and apparatus is the standardization of components, which is designed to minimize the amount of types of discrete pieces that are required to configure and operate the system.

[0025] The system and apparatus may also be employed in an alternate configuration where instead of a housing or shell, the system components may be constructed or configured to fit into an existing space, such as a building or other enclosure. In these alternate implementations, the system devices may be configured and arranged for the available space.

[0026] Treatment equipment is provided and is housed within the shell. Some of the types of treatment equipment contained inside the shell include apparatus for conducting and regulating a flow of fluid, such as, for example, flow pipes or conduits, hoses, valves, process pumps, controls equipment, and pressure vessels necessary to treat the water for PF AS contaminants, as well as pre-filtration apparatus. The equipment deployed within the shell also includes pressure vessels. According to some embodiments, equipment inside the shell, in addition to the components of the inventive apparatus herein, may further include common components to any other PF AS treatment system, such as pipe, fittings and media. The pressure vessels are of a unique design and contain a number of features that provide benefits for facilitating assembly, operation, repair and modification, as well as for changing out the filter media. Additional features of the methods, systems and the inventive pressure vessels lend themselves to efficiently removing vessels from the treatment process and / or relocating vessels for backwashing operations or full replacement of the vessels with new vessels already prepared to enter service. The systems, methods and apparatus also may be configured and employed for carrying out pre-treatment processes, and one or more filter trains may be assigned to perform pre-treatment, if desired. Alternatively, a configuration of vessels for pretreatment may be arranged, and brought to a site on a trailer, or prepared off site and moved to a site location.

[0027] Another benefit of the systems, methods and apparatus is to provide processes for maintaining the media life of a system which can be accomplished through a combination of media replacement and / or backwashing (including options for one or more, or both). According to preferred embodiments and implementations, the media replacement can be accomplished through on-site media replacement. The media replacement, for example, may be carried out using traditional means (where the media is forced out of the vessel and replaced with new media). Alternatively, the inventive methods, systems and apparatus allow for the complete replacement of a vessel with a new vessel that has already been prepared to enter service (e.g., charged with new media and / or media that is ready to use). The maintenance of the media can also be accomplished by backwashing upstream vessels, such as forexample vessels acting as roughing filters when pressure vessel roughing filters are employed in the treatment scheme. Further details of maintaining and managing the media life are provided below. Extension of the media life provides not only economic benefits of conserving media, and use of potentially less media by increased media utilization, but also has environmental benefits because when new media is deployed it typically involves transporting media, and use of transportation resources, such as fuel and vehicles (trucks) as well as to removal and transportation of the used media (e.g., to a media processing facility).

[0028] Another feature of the inventive system, methods and apparatus is the capability to extend filter media life, including for both the inventive vessels as well as for other types of pressure vessels. The systems, methods and apparatus also may introduce an extension of the pressure vessel roughing filter method of backwashing pressure vessels for the purpose of extending system media life of non-modular pressure vessels.

[0029] Furthermore, the systems, methods and apparatus may provide a control system for maintaining flow through vessels of either the modular type or traditional (non-modular type). Embodiments of the control system may include several alternative method implementations that can be employed to provide equipment according to some embodiments that are suitable to handle requirements for a desired site design and the flow and filtration requirements. The control system may provide broad functionality to the inventive system, methods and devices. One purpose of the control system is to allow for site flow conditions to vary while still maintaining the Hydraulic Loading Rate (HLR) though the vessels.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0030] Fig. 1 is a side elevation view of an apparatus according to one embodiment showing an exemplary vessel, and an exemplary transport system.

[0031] Fig. 2 is an exploded view showing the components of the apparatus of Fig. 1 in an unassembled condition.

[0032] Fig. 3 A is a side elevation view of a base of the apparatus of Fig. 1, shown separate from the other components.

[0033] Fig. 3B is a front elevation view of the base shown in Fig. 3A.

[0034] Fig. 4 is an elevation view of the vessel body of the apparatus of Fig. 1, shown separate from the other components.

[0035] Fig. 5 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of a lower subassembly shown comprising an alternate end portion.

[0036] Fig. 6 is a side elevation view of another alternate embodiment of a lower subassembly shown comprising an alternate end portion.

[0037] Fig. 7A is a side elevation view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel

[0038] Fig. 7B is an exploded view in elevation of the vessel shown in Fig. 7A, shown rotated to the right.

[0039] Fig. 7C is a sectional view of the vessel of Fig. 7A, taken through a diameter of the vessel along the section plane 7C — 7C of Fig. 7B.

[0040] Fig. 7D is an exploded view in elevation of the vessel shown in Fig. 7A, shown rotated to the right.

[0041] Fig. 8 is a side elevation view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel.

[0042] Fig. 9A is a sectional view taken through the diameter of an alternate embodiment of an end portion for use with a vessel.

[0043] Fig. 9B is a sectional view taken through the diameter of another alternate embodiment of an end portion for use with a vessel.

[0044] Fig. 10A is an isometric view of a schematic depiction of an exemplary embodiment of enclosure, shown with the top or roof removed and looking in to the space from above.

[0045] Fig. 10B is an isometric view of a schematic depiction of another exemplary embodiment of enclosure, shown with the top or roof removed and looking in to the space from above.

[0046] Fig. 10C is a top plan view showing a schematic illustration of an alternate configuration of an enclosure and enclosure space.

[0047] Fig. 10D is a top plan view showing a schematic illustration of yet another alternate configuration of an enclosure and enclosure space.

[0048] Fig. 10E is a top plan view showing a schematic illustration of yet another alternate configuration of an enclosure and enclosure space.

[0049] Fig. 10F is a top plan view showing a schematic illustration of yet another alternate configuration of an enclosure and enclosure space.

[0050] Fig. 10G is a top plan view showing a schematic illustration of yet another alternate configuration of an enclosure and enclosure space.

[0051] Fig. 11A is a front elevation view of an exemplary depiction of an enclosure, showing steps for installing a vessel system therein.

[0052] Fig. 1 IB is a top plan view of a schematic depiction of the interior space of the enclosure of Fig. 11 A.

[0053] Fig. 12 is a sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a connector line for connecting vessels.

[0054] Fig. 13 is an isometric view looking from the front of an exemplary embodiment of a trailer system.

[0055] Fig. 14 is an isometric view looking from the front of an exemplary embodiment of a platform for receiving vessels.

[0056] Fig. 15 is an isometric view looking from the side of an exemplary embodiment of a structure for receiving and enclosing vessels.

[0057] Fig. 16 is an isometric view looking from the top of a vessel support.

[0058] Fig. 17 is an isometric view of the vessel support of Fig. 16 shown with optional components, including a handle and vertical support.

[0059] Fig. 18 is an isometric view of the vessel support of Fig. 16 shown with alternate blocks in place of casters, and with an optional vertical support.

[0060] Fig. 19 is an isometric view of the vessel support of Fig. 16 shown with alternate tires in place of casters, and with an optional vertical support.

[0061] Fig. 20 is an isometric view of the vessel support of Fig. 17 shown without the handle, and with a vessel carried thereon.

[0062] Fig. 21 is a sectional elevation view of the vessel and support shown in Fig. 20, taken vertically through the center of the vessel and support.

[0063] Fig. 22 is a sectional elevation view of the vessel and support shown in Fig. 20, shown with the lower end portion rotated to provide an offset for the inlet and outlet.

[0064] Fig. 23 A is a sectional elevation view of the vessel and vessel support shown in Fig. 20, taken vertically through the center of the vessel and support, showing an alternate support arrangement for the vessel.

[0065] Fig. 23B is an elevation view of the vessel and support shown in Fig. 23 A.

[0066] Fig. 23C is a view of the encircled area 23C of Fig. 23B.

[0067] Fig. 24A is a flow diagram of an exemplary implementation of methods, depicting process and subprocess flows.

[0068] Fig. 24B is a further diagram of the exemplary process and subprocess flows.

[0069] Fig. 24C is yet a further diagram of the exemplary process and subprocess flows.

[0070] Fig. 24D is yet a further diagram of the exemplary process and subprocess flows.

[0071] Fig. 24E is yet a further diagram of the exemplary process and subprocess flows.

[0072] Fig. 24F a flow diagram of an exemplary implementation of methods, depicting process and subprocess flows for configuring a system and vessels.

[0073] Fig. 25 is a sectional elevation view of an alternate embodiment of a vessel end portion, shown having a hemi-spherical configuration.

[0074] Fig. 26 is a sectional elevation view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel end portion, shown having an elliptical configuration.

[0075] Fig. 27 is a side elevation view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel, shown with the vessel inlet and outlets disposed on the vessel body.

[0076] Fig. 28A is an isometric view of a vessel, shown with an alternate embodiment of a vessel support.Fig. 28B is an enlarged view of the vessel assembly and support of Fig. 28A, showing the vessel in partial view.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0077] The system and apparatus provide vessels also referred to as cartridge tanks, which comprise a modular tank design that allow for a pressure vessel in the system to be quickly swapped in order to replaced that portion of the system’s media. The system preferably comprises a plurality of vessels arranged in configurations to provide treatment via filter media, for a fluid source, which typically is water and / or wastewater. The system is employed for treating contaminants in water and wastewater (or other fluids). Instead of the traditional means of media replacement which occurs on site due to the nature of servicing permanently installed vessels, the inventive systems employing the cartridge tank design may provide the capability to take the entire vessel with media inside to a more convenient location for the media replacement. Typically, the cartridge tank or vessel service location would either be off-site or in a mobile servicing unit. Traditional vessels, permanently installed on-site, require the media to be pumped out of the vessels. This operation requires bringing in many types of equipment such as freight trucks for media, vac trucks for media pumping, cranes, etc. The other issue with onsite media replacement is that commissioning the newly replaced media requires backwashing with significant volumes of water that often cannot be drained to a sanitary sewer connection which requires storing the backwash water in temporary tanks on-site. Even when temporary tanks are not required, the backwashing operation to commission new media is a time-intensive process. The cartridge tank vessels may allow for these pressure vessels to be pre-backwashed and prepared to enter service in a convenient location which circumvents the logistical issues described for the on-site, traditional vessels.

[0078] The design of the cartridge tanks may have one or more of the following attributes:

[0079] The cartridge tanks themselves are of a modular design consisting of an assembly of parts. The assembly can be altered to best suit the needs of the site-specific design characteristics such as water quality and flow rate while retaining the system-level modularity. The assembly of various parts also allows for inventory control and economies of scale because common parts can be employed across tanks destined for different sites. Therefore, costs are again minimized without sacrificing design flexibility or necessitating a standard tank size for numerous sites which potentially could introduce additional water quality and hydraulic problems.

[0080] According to some preferred embodiments, the cartridge tanks comprise a base subassembly having one or more or both of wheels and forklift skids. The wheels in the embodiments described herein provide for man-portability and maneuverability of the pressure vessels which allow the vessels to be moved and maneuvered without specialized equipment, while also providing forklift skids allows the use of existing treatment equipment lifting apparatus to still be used, if desired. Being able to manually maneuver the tanks also reduces the number of specialized pieces of equipment required toperform a media replacement. For example instead of a vac-truck being needed on-site to change media in a traditional, permanent vessel, a single person can wheel the cartridge tank(s) onto the lift gate of a transport vehicle, such as for example, a standard box truck.

[0081] As another example, while the forklift skids are installed on the cartridge tanks, they are optionally employed because the wheels provide sufficient mobility in most cases. Therefore, a system operator or installer can place the cartridge tanks where forklifts or pallet jacks do not have easy access or where forklifts are unavailable. In fact, a common use case for employing the wheels on the cartridge tanks for mobility is to place the treatment system of cartridge tanks inside an existing building instead of in the shell enclosure described above. Utilizing an existing building dramatically reduces the treatment system capital expenditure for installation; however, it limits forklift access. Therefore, the wheels provide the appropriate solution to regain mobility.

[0082] According to some embodiments, the cartridge tanks are provided having a bottom subassembly that houses an internal underdrain to maintain the fdter bed integrity and maintain a flow profile similar to what would be used on much larger, traditional, permanently installed pressure vessels. According to some embodiments, the inventive system and devices may employ an underdrain system that is similar to larger steel tanks as the inventive system maintains a better flow profile (top-to-bottom flow profile) than bottle style vessels which have a single inlet / outlet configuration (bottom-to-top flow profile, and an inlet and outlet at a single location). Having the top-to-bottom flow profile (where the flow enters one area (e.g., the top), and exits another area (e.g., the bottom) is made possible by the modular construction of the inventive vessels which not only improves the flow profile, but which also allows for a cost-effective supply chain management and construction methods that can compete with the economics of using the common, readily available bottle style tanks. As an example, the underdrain can be inventoried and provided as a standard component, which according to some embodiments may be attached, e.g., bolted to, the bottom subassembly prior to installing the cartridge tank’s remaining other subassemblies. This process and procedure turns the operation into an assembly operation compared to the fabrication ordinarily required on traditional pressure vessels, and therefore, also saves substantial costs to compete with the bottle style tanks for small vessels and their inferior flow pattern.

[0083] The cartridge tanks have a central or middle subassembly that can be sized to fit the hydraulic needs of the site and media by being designed in height to stay within the necessary Empty Bed Contact Time (EBCT) and HLR. The height adjustment for the middle subassembly can be accomplished through either multiple rings stacked together or a single ring cut to the exact height required. While altering the tank diameter can also accomplish the task of staying within the necessary EBCT and HLR range, the best economies of scale are achieved when the cartridge tank diameter is standardized for limiting inventories to only having the same diameter base, bottom, middle, and top subassemblies then varying the height of the middle subassembly to accomplish the design goals for EBCT and HLR.Although the assembly is in some instances referred to as rings, the shape and diameter of the vessel, including the central or middle portion, may be other than circumferential and therefore the rings may be differently shaped as well.

[0084] The cartridge tanks have a top assembly that houses the inlet pipe and diffuser to distribute flow throughout the vessel. The top section also provides areas for mounting appurtenances such as valves and fittings.

[0085] The assembly of each subassembly into the entire cartridge tank can be accomplished by direct threading, bolting, grooved fittings, or welding with the appropriate seals such as o-rings or gaskets depending on the joint type. However, welding the sections together to form a permanent connection reduces some of the economic benefits gained by the additional modularity of joints that can be easily disassembled. Some exemplary embodiments of the system and apparatus, including the vessels, are discussed below and described in connection with the accompanying figures.

[0086] Referring to Fig. 1 an apparatus according to an embodiment is shown comprising a cartridge tank or vessel 110 and an exemplary transport system 111. In Fig. 2, the vessel 110 is shown in an exploded view, showing a preferred configuration where the components may be separately provided and assembled and disassembled as needed. The vessel 110 is shown comprising a plurality of releasably connectable parts, which in the exemplary embodiment, are illustrated comprising a body portion 112, a first end portion 113 and a second end portion 114. According to some preferred embodiments, the first end portion 113 and second end portion 114 may comprise identical parts, each of which can be connected to the body portion 112. According to some other embodiments, the end portions may be different from one another. Although the body portion 112 is shown as a single portion, the body portion itself may be comprised of connectable sub portions, if desired. For example, the body portion may be formed using two connectable body portions which, for example, may have end flanges that connect at adjacent locations of the vessel body portions, or other suitable connection means, such as threaded end, or the like. The vessel 111 is designed to have flow through the vessel entering through an inlet, and exiting via an outlet. In the embodiment illustrated, each of the first end portion 113 and second end portion 114 is configured with a valve 115, 116, respectively. In the embodiment illustrated, the valves 115, 116 are shown comprising a manually operable valve (such as a ball valve). However, according to some alternate embodiments, the valves may comprise any valve that is suitable to regulate the flow of water (or other fluid) therethrough, and according to some embodiments, may comprise an electronically operated valve, a manually operated valve, or combinations thereof. The vessel body portion 112 preferably comprises a wall having a suitable thickness to support contents therein, e.g., filter media and water. The vessel body portion 112 comprises a wall 112a enclosing a space therein 112b that provides a chamber for the filter media 130. The vessel body portion 112, and the first and second end portions 113, 114, preferably are constructed from a suitable material that is resistant to chemicals, environmental conditions, such as cold and hottemperatures, corrosion, and degradation. According to some preferred embodiments, the vessel 110, such as the body portion 112, first end portion 113 and second end portion 114 may be made from a material that is lightweight, corrosion-proof, resistant to bacteriological and chemical buildup, and has a higher life expectancy (as compared to other types of materials, e.g., steel, iron, and / or copper). Some suitable materials include plastic materials. One preferred material for the vessel 110 is high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is lightweight and has desirable properties for the system.

[0087] The first end portion 113 and second end portion 114 are shown each having an opening or port 117, 118. A connector such as the inlet pipe 120 is provided to receive a flow, and is shown installed on the first end portion 113 to communicate with the opening 117. In the embodiment illustrated, the device 110 is shown having the inlet pipe configured as an elbow, but the inlet pipe may have other configurations, for example, such as a straight pipe, or other conduit. A regulatable valve 121 is provided on the inlet pipe to regulate the fluid flow into the vessel. The second end portion is shown in Figs. 1 and 2 having an opening 118 on the side to provide an outlet for the flow passing through the vessel. In the embodiment illustrated, the opening is provided to connect with a conduit such as the pipe 123. The pipe 123 is shown configured as a riser that extends from the opening 118 upward. The riser pipe 123 may include or connect with a suitable fitting 124 that provides a connection for other pipes or conduits to connect to the end of the pipe 123. According to preferred embodiments, the inlet and outlet openings 117, 118 may comprise a fitting or connector, such as a section of pipe, that is mounted (e.g., such as welded or otherwise adhered) to the respective first end portion 113 and second end portion 114. The respective fittings or pipe sections allow the inlet pipe 120 and outlet pipe (e.g., riser pipe 123) to connect to the vessel (in particular the first end portion 113 and second end portion 114). Alternatively, the inlet pipe 120 may be welded or otherwise fixed to the top or first end portion 113.

[0088] In the embodiment depicted in Figs. 1 and 2, the first end portion 113 comprises the upper or top subassembly 125, and includes a diffuser 126 to regulate the flow of water or other fluid that has entered, or as it enters the vessel. According to some preferred embodiments, the diffuser 126 preferably comprises a structure that spans the perimeter of the vessel interior and provides a plurality of passages through which the water or fluid that has entered or is entering the vessel passes. The passage through the diffuser 126 presents the flow to the filter media 130 within the vessel at a desired flow rate, and evens out the flow distribution so as to minimize or prevent one area of the filter media from receiving more or less flow (gpm or other rate) than another area. The even flow aids in prolonging the filter media life. Although the diffuser 126 is not shown separately in the exploded view, according to some embodiments, the diffuser may be provided separately, while in other embodiments, the diffuser may be provided already connected to or as part of the top end portion 113. The diffuser 126 may comprise a suitable flow element, and according to some embodiments may comprise a flow straightener. Although the diffuser 126 is represented with broken line channels thatappear to be similar in size, the diffuser 126 preferably has a plurality of channels therethrough which may be of different sizes and provided at different locations to provide the desired flow, and promote an even flow through the media.

[0089] In the assembled view of Fig. 1, an optional handle 131 is shown. The handle 131 according to a preferred configuration may wrap around the vessel to provide ease in grasping the vessel from any one location, providing further maneuverability and placement options for locating and servicing the vessel. According to some alternate embodiments, the handle may be provided at one or more locations along the vessel. The outlet pipe 123 preferably is supported on one or more of the vessel structures, and is shown in the exemplary embodiment connected to the first end portion 113, body portion 112, and second end portion 114. Connectors 133 are shown connecting the outlet pipe 123 to the vessel. The fitting 124 of the outlet pipe 123 comprises a suitable connector that can provide easy connect and disconnect to a suitable conduit, such as for example, a flexible hose, pipe or other flow path accessory. The outlet pipe connector may be the same type of connector as the inlet connector 127. The output flow from the outlet pipe 123 may be directed to any suitable location, may be combined with outputs from other vessels, e.g., serially, or in parallel, such as where a group of vessels is used in a filtration arrangement. The outlet pipe 123 preferably includes a connector or suitable end 123a which connects with the outlet opening 118 or a fitting provided at the opening. The second or lower subassembly 128 provides an area where the filtered fluid, such as water or wastewater, collects after passing through the filter media 130, and exits the vessel through the outlet 118. Preferably, the filter media 130 sits on a support, which may for example comprise a steel, plastic or other type of mesh screen 132 (Fig. 2) that retains the filter media while permitting the water to pass. A diffuser 129 also is shown in Fig. 1, and is situated at the lower portion of the vessel, after the filter media. The bottom diffuser 129 (Fig. 1) preferably may be provided as part of the second or lower subassembly 128, and can be integral with or attached thereto, or alternatively, can be separate and attachable / detachable. The inlet pipe 120 also is shown provided with a fitting 127 that allows the connection of a conduit, such as for example, a flexible hose, pipe or other flow path accessory (e.g., flow meter, regulator, and / or the like). According to some preferred embodiments, the inlet fitting 127 may comprise a cam-lock connector, such as for example, a cam-lock socket, or other type of connector for quick attachment and removal of the connecting hose or line to the inlet. Fig. 12 shows an exemplary depiction of a connector. The second or bottom subassembly 128 is shown supported on a base 135. The transport system 111 is represented in Figs. 1 and 2 by the wheels 138 and frame portion 137.

[0090] The first end portion 113 and second end portion 114 are shown with respective flanges 113a, 114a. The flanges 113a, 114a, respectively connect with the flanges 112c, 112d of the vessel body portion 112. The connection may be made by any suitable mechanism, and some exemplary embodiments are shown herein. For example, a connector, such as threads (e.g., direct threading),bolts, grooved fittings, or welding, along with the suitable seals such as o-rings or gaskets depending on the joint type, may be used to secure the vessel portions together. Suitable gaskets may be provided between the flange connections to provide a seal against leakage and to contain the water or other liquid contents within the vessel. Although not shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the flanges may be provided with a plurality of bores that align with one another to allow a fastener such as a bolt to connect the respective flanges together (e.g., the first end portion flange 113a and body first flange 112c, and the second end portion flange 112d and second end portion flange 114a. A groove, such as an annular groove may be provided in the flange surfaces and a seal, such as an o-ring or other sealing element may be seated on or in the groove to provide sealing when the flange portions are secured together. The gasket also may be provided with aligning apertures or may be punctured so it is securely tightened with the flange connections, when the end portion is secured to the vessel body. Alternatively, the vessel portions, such as the vessel body portion 112, first end portion 113 and second end portion 114 may be secured together using a suitable coupler. For example, Victaulic couplings may be used to secure the vessel portions together and provide a seal against leaks and other debris. The alternate embodiment herein shows a gasket connection, which is an example of a type of gasket connection that may be used for the vessel 110 shown in Figs 1 and 2.

[0091] Referring to Figs. 3 A and 3B, the transport system 111 is shown comprising a base 135 which has a base subassembly 136 with wheels 138 to facilitate transport of the vessel 110. The base subassembly 136 includes a frame 137 that supports the vessel 110 thereon. The second or lower subassembly 128 is shown resting on, and preferably connects to the base 135. The wheels 138 are supported on wheel supports 140 that are shown attached to the base frame 137. Although not shown, the wheels 140 and / or wheel supports may include locks or other suitable mechanism to lock one or more of the wheels 138 in place to prevent movement, when the vessel and base are set in a desired position or location. The base 135 provides mobility for the vessel from an offsite location to another location, and for repair, removal, recharging or replacement of the filter media and other activities that require relocating or moving the vessel. According to some embodiments, the base subassembly 136 may include skids or pockets 141, 142 that allow a lifting device, such as a forklift / truck, skid lift, pallet jack, or the like, to be used to lift and move the vessel (for example, where the vessel contents include filter media and / or water). The skids or pockets 141, 142 are shown comprising respective openings or slots 143, 144 for receiving the tines of a lifting device. The positioning of the pockets 141, 142 is shown on the base 135 in one exemplary arrangement, and alternatively, the positioning may be provided as would be suitable for standard type or types of lifting devices. Also, a forklift truck may be configured with lifts or a lift adapters that are designed to handle pockets as designated distances and sizes. According to an alternate configuration, one pocket may be provided between the wheels, while another pocket may be provided on the edge of the frame 137. For example, according to some embodiments, the edge pocket may be provided to fold or slide outward when needed, and recede or fold out of the way, when not needed. While only a single edge pocket may be provided,according to some further alternative configurations, an edge pocket may be provided on each side (with a pocket between the wheels), allowing further options for engagement with the tines of a lifting device (to provide options for maneuvering or positioning the lifting device). The vessel 110 preferably is constructed so that it is lightweight and may be maneuvered and moved manually (in some cases without the need for heavy lifting machinery). However, when the vessel contains a load, depending on the size of the vessel, then the vessel may require or be best handled using some type of lifting apparatus. The base 135 may be provided as part of or for used in conjunction with the vessel 110 shown in Figs. 1 and 2, or alternatively, the base 135 may be a separately provided optional item, and the vessel shown in Figs. 1 and 2 for example, may be provided with another type of suitable base, such as for example, any of those shown and described herein.

[0092] The vessel 110 may be configured in different heights and diameters to accommodate and handle a variety of flow conditions, where the residence time, or media contact time for a given treatment protocol is desired or required. The vessel 110 is illustrated having a cylindrical body configuration, and the ends may be cylindrical in part, with a flat or arcuate profile at each end. Alternatively, other geometries may be provided for the vessel 110, such as for example, apolygonized curvature, rectangular or square, ellipsoidal, or a polygonal shape, or combinations of planar and curved sides or walls. The first end portion 113 and second end portion 114 may be provided having a standard height, and may be provided or supplied in diameters that match those of the body portion 112. According to some embodiments, the first end portion 113 and second end portion 114 may be the same, and therefore a single end portion (used in a pair) is usable for the first end or top of the vessel and for the second end or bottom of the vessel. Fig. 4 shows an exemplary illustration of the vessel body 112 shown separately from the other components. The vessel body 112 may be provided having a number of heights, which may be determined based on the space within which the vessel will be used, stored and / or transported, and / or the capacity or capacities of volumes and / or flows of water or fluid and filter media capacity to be held therein. A height H is shown in Fig. 4 to represent the vessel body height. The diameter of the vessel body 112 is represented by D, which in the illustration is an internal diameter (i.d.) of the vessel, within the vessel wall 112a. The vessel space 112b is configured to hold the filter media therein. The vessel may be configured and provided having different heights H, and different diameters D. According to some preferred embodiments, the vessels may have heights from about 24 to about 48 inches, with a preferred height being about 36 inches, and diameters (e.g., i.d.) from about 10 inches to about 30 inches, with a preferred diameter being about 21 inches. Although the measurements represent some potential configurations, other sizes may be provided, including customized sizes. However, the system provides for the desired sizing to be readily constructed and assembled from the components, which according to some embodiments may be standardized so that there are vessel bodies and ends (e.g., first end and second end, or universal end) that can be stocked and then configured as needed. The vessel body portion 112 is configurable and allows a system to be configured with vessels that can be assembled using the standardized top andbottom end portions, but with a varied selection of vessel height to provide a suitable flow and capacity characteristics and properties for the filtration or treatment application being handled. The vessels also preferably may be provided as a system that can be configured with a plurality of vessels that form a filtration system. Vessels may be connected together for usage through flow conduits, such as lines or hoses, that line an outlet of one vessel to an inlet of another, or that output or direct the outlet flows from a plurality of vessels into a sump for further distribution or processing. For example, a water source may be distributed to a plurality of vessels of a system, and the vessels may treat the water (e.g., by filtering with the filter media) and output the treated or filtered water through the vessel outlet and through the outlet pipe to a location for further processing or distribution (or to a sump that is designed to channel the water to distribution or processing location). The vessel 112 optionally may include a separate or integrated diffuser (or flow straightener), such as the diffuser 146 (Fig. 4), which is shown comprising a plate or disk, that is provided at each end of the vessel body 112. The diffuser 146 has a number of apertures therein to allow flow to pass therethrough. The apertures may be provided in a pattern, and also may be provided to have more or less of them in one area, as determined from the central location, to accommodate potential flow differentials between the center of the vessel space and the outer portion of the vessel space (e.g., near the wall 112a). Accordingly, the diameters (i.d.) of the end portions such as the first end portion 113 and second end portion 114, preferably are matched to the diameter (i.d.) of the vessel body 112. Although the flange portions of the respective end portions and vessel align, it is conceivable that the diameters (i.d.) of the vessel could be different from the end portions, but preferably they are the same for continuity and flow facilitation. The end portions also may be supplied as part of the system, and may be standardized in height, since typically a single height for the end portions will be suitable, allowing selection of the desired diameter ends for use to assemble a vessel with the matching sized vessel body. The flanges in the embodiments illustrated may be configured as annular flanges on the end portion and / or the vessel body, or alternatively, may have other shapes, which according to some embodiments may correspond with the shape of the vessel body and / or end portion.

[0093] Referring to Fig. 5, an exemplary embodiment of a subassembly comprising an end portion is shown, the end portion being configured as a lower end portion 114’ which is configured the same as the end portion 113 (shown in Figs. 1 and 2). The lower end portion 114’ is shown having a diffuser 126’ to regulate the flow of water or other fluid as it exits the filter media of the vessel. The subassembly 114’ is shown having a flange 114a’ and a port or outlet 118’ which is connected to a line 120’ such as a pipe, hose or other conduit. A fitting 127’ is provided on the line 120’ and may be used to connect with a flexible hose, pipe or other flow path accessory (e.g., flow meter, regulator, and / or the like) to deliver an output flow from the vessel, such as a flow of filtered water or wastewater. The lower subassembly also preferably includes a perforated plate or screen to hold filter media, and in this embodiment the filter media is supported on the screen.

[0094] Referring to Fig. 6, an alternate embodiment of a lower or second subassembly 114” is illustrated. The subassembly 114” may comprise an end portion of the vessel 110, and preferably is shown comprising a lower end portion. The subassembly 114” is shown having a flange 114a” that is configured to connect with the lower vessel flange such as the lower flange 112d of the vessel body 112 (Figs. 1 and 2). The subassembly 114” is shown with two outlet options, including a first outlet option 118” located at the bottom wall 114b” of the subassembly, and a second outlet option 118”’ shown provided on a sidewall 114c” (which also may be disposed near or at the bottom wall 114b”. The second subassembly 114” is shown with an optional ramped wall portion or surface 114b” that directs the flow to an outlet, such as when the side outletl 18”’ is used. Alternatively, the ramped wall 114b” may be omitted (or removed if made removable) when the lower outlet 118’ is used for the outlet flow. A perforated underdrain element 132” is shown and preferably may be configured having a conical shape to facilitate collection of the filtered water or wastewater, and to promote a desired flow direction. Flow pipes 120” (shown connected to the first or lower outlet 118”) and flow pipe 120’” (shown connected to the second or side outlet 118’”) are provided, and may be fitted or used with connectors to connect to other conduits such as pipes, hoses or flow accessories. In the alternate embodiment 114” shown in Fig. 6, one or more outlets may be provided, such as for example, a first outlet, which in the embodiment illustrated is provided at the bottom (at the bottom wall 114b”) as the outlet 118”, and a second outlet, such as for example, an outlet provided in a side wall (such as the side wall 114c”) where the outlet 118’” is shown.

[0095] Referring to Figs. 7A-7D, there is illustrated a second embodiment of a vessel 250 according to an embodiment. The vessel 250 is shown assembled together, and comprises a vessel body 252 having a wall 252a, an interior space 252b, an upper flange 252c and a lower flange 252d. The vessel 250 is shown having end portions 253 provided at each end of the vessel 250. The end portions 253 are provided to connect with the vessel body 252 to form the vessel 250. A suitable connection mechanism is employed that make the connection without leakage from the vessel interior, or entry of debris or other materials, gasses or liquids into the vessel space 252b. According to an exemplary embodiment, a preferred connection of the vessel body 252 and end portions 253 is illustrated, where each end portion 253 is secured to an end of the vessel body 252, via the respective vessel body flanges 252c, 252d. The end portions 253 serve as the first or top end, and the second or bottom end of the vessel. The lower end portion 253 also may serve as an underdrain, below the filter media. In the embodiment illustrated, each end portion 253 is configured with a flange 253a. The end portion 253 at the top of the vessel 250 is shown having a flange 253a that connects to the first or upper flange 252c of the vessel body 252, and the end portion flange 253a of the end portion 253 at the bottom of the vessel 250 connects to the second or lower flange 252d of the vessel body 252. According to preferred embodiments, the vessel body flanges 252c, 252d preferably connect with a flange 253a of an end portion 253, and a gasket 270 may be provided between the respective flanges to provide a sealagainst water exiting the vessel 250 and from the intrusion of outside elements into the vessel space. According to a preferred embodiment, a flow element 259 is provided, and may comprise a flow restrictor or straightener. The flow element has a plurality of apertures 259a therein. The apertures 259a, although shown in a pattern, may be arranged closer together or further apart from each other in one or more locations, or may be smaller or larger in one or more areas, to regulate the flow through the vessel space 252b, so that the fdter media residing in the vessel space receives a substantially even flow of water or fluid. Although filter media is not shown in the space 252b, the filter media, such as GAC, ion exchange or other media is disposed in the space. A flow element 259 preferably is disposed at a location proximate to the vessel body upper opening 252e (Fig. 7D), and another flow element 259 preferably is disposed at a location proximate to the vessel body lower opening 252f (see 7C). The flow element 259 is shown as a separate component, although according to some alternate embodiments may be integrated or provided with the end portion 253, or the vessel body 252. In the embodiment illustrated, the flow element 259 is shown at two locations, to regulate the flow into the filter media of the vessel space 252a, and the exit therefrom to the bottom draining area (of the end portion 253) at the lower end of the vessel 250. According to preferred implementations, the flow straighteners 259 are shown provided in an upper location and a lower location, and preferably the apertures 259a in each respective flow straightener are matched in orientation so they are vertically in alignment, e.g., clocked the same. According to some alternate embodiments, the apertures of the flow straighteners may be different, i.e., not matched. In the embodiment depicted, the top portion 253 may be oriented or clocked in a desired direction so that its flow inlet 257 and inlet pipe 260 are directed in a desired direction, as the flow elements, such as the flow straightener are positionable relative to the positioning of the top end portion 253. Similarly, the lower end portion 253 may be similarly aligned and oriented with respect to its outlet 257and outlet pipe 260 (of the end portion 253 situated at the lower vessel end). The filter media is supported on a support element, which is shown comprising a filter mesh 272. The filter mesh 272 is seated on the lower flow element 259, and preferably allows water to pass through the mesh 272 while retaining all or mostly all of the filter media above the mesh (within the vessel body space 252b). As shown in the section view of Fig 7C, the respective flanges 253a, 252c and 252d, 253a are gasketed by the gasket 270, which is shown disposed between the respective pairs of flanges. For example, although not required, a form or jig may be used to facilitate assembly of the components, where the form or jig allows for alignment of the components during an assembly thereof. The end portion 253 is shown having a walled construction comprising a wall 253b and an end portion or surface 253c which forms each end of the vessel 250 (the upper end and lower end). An opening 257 is shown provided in the end surface 253, and a conduit, such as the pipe 260 is connected to the opening 257. The conduit or pipe 260 preferably is fitted with a valve 264 that regulates the flow into and / or out of the opening 257 (depending on the location of the end portion). The valve 257 preferably is connected to or fitted with a connector, such as threads, a quick connect, or other suitable connector to connect to a suitable conduit, such as for example, a flexible hose, pipeor other flow path accessory (e.g., flow meter, regulator, and / or the like). According to a preferred implementation, as the arrows indicate, when the valve 264 is open or partially open to admit a fluid flow, the flow of water or wastewater passes through the pipe 260 and into the opening 267 and into the vessel space, for example, entering the space 253b of the end portion 253. The water must pass through the flow element 259 to reach the filter media in the vessel body space 252b. Once the flow passes through the filter media, the desired filtration takes place and contaminants are filtered out from the water entering, and the filtered water passes through the mesh 272 and lower filter element 259, and into the space 253d of the end portion 253 provided at the bottom of the vessel 250. The flow, as shown by the arrows, where the valve 264 (at the lower end portion) is open or partially open, proceeds through the opening 257 (of the lower end portion) and through the pipe 260 to a suitable outlet pipe, such as for example, a flexible hose, pipe or other flow path accessory (e.g., flow meter, regulator, and / or the like). The end portions 253 are provided to connect with the vessel body 252, in a sealing engagement, to form the vessel 250. As illustrated in the exploded view of Fig. 7D, the vessel flow elements, comprising the flow straighteners 259, are disposed between the respective flanges and preferably include gaskets 270 disposed between the flanges and flow straightener (shown on opposite sides thereof). A top end portion or first end portion 253 is shown having a flange 253a, a top wall 253c with an opening 257 therein comprising an inlet opening (for the end portion installed as a top end portion) connecting to an inlet pipe 260 with an inlet valve 264 thereon. A plurality of fasteners, such as the bolts 261 secured with nuts are used to connect the respective clamping ring pairs 281, 282 and 283, 284 on the respective flanges of the end portions 253 and vessel body 252. A mesh screen 272 is disposed after the filter media space 252b, and in the embodiment illustrated, is disposed above the flow straightener 259 (at the lower end of the vessel). The top wall portion 253c of the end portion 253 may comprise a separate component that can be provided to connect with the end portion side wall 253b, or may be provided as an integral component. Where the top wall portion 253c is separately provided, it may be connected to the side wall 253b via a suitable connection mechanism, such as threads, welding and / or adhesive. The top wall portion therefore may be removably provided, or may be integral with other portions of the end portion 253, such as the side wall 253b and flange 253a.

[0096] The vessel body 252 preferably is connected to the end portions 253 using a suitable connector. For example, a connector, such as threads (e.g., direct threading), bolts, grooved fittings, or welding, along with the suitable seals such as o-rings or gaskets (such as the gaskets 270) depending on the joint type, may be used to secure the vessel portions together. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the vessel 250 is shown having a plurality of clamps, comprising the clamp pairs 281, 282 and 283, 284, which are provided to clampingly engage the respective flanges 253a, 252c and 253a, 252d and sealingly retain a flow element 259 between the respective flanges. The clamping pairs preferably are secured with bolts that may be installed through the respective apertures 281a, 282a, see Fig. 7D (of clamp pairs 281, 282), and apertures 283a, 284a, see Fig. 7D (of clamp pairs 283, 284). According to some embodiments, a Victaulic coupling may be used to secure the respective flanges 253a, 252c and253a, 252d. In the embodiment where a Victaulic coupling is used, then the flow element may be provided as part of the vessel body 252 (e.g., within the vessel space 252b) or as part of and end portion 253. Fastening members comprising the clamp pairs are shown secured together with a plurality of bolts (such as the bolts 261 shown in connection with the embodiment in Figs. 7A-7D).

[0097] The vessel 250 preferably may be part of or used with a system where a base, such as the base 135, 710 (see Figs. 16-23C) (or other base), is provided to support and facilitate transport of the vessel 250. As an option, a handle, such as the handle 131, may be provided on the vessel 250. The handle may wrap around the entire vessel for ease of maneuvering from any location, or alternatively, may be provided in one or more areas of the vessel. The vessel 250, although shown comprising a cylindrical shaped vessel, also may be provided having different shapes, such as for example, a polygonized curvature, rectangular or square, ellipsoidal, or a polygonal shape, or combinations of planar and curved sides or walls. Similarly, the end portions 113, 114, 253 and other end portions, although shown having a straight or planar end wall, may be configured with a different geometry, such as for example, rounded or curved, or with a rounded or curved edge portion, or dome-shaped. According to some embodiments, the rounded or curved profile may be provided for the end portion wall, or may be provided for a portion of the end portion wall, such as the interior wall surface (while the exterior surface of the end portion wall has a similar profile, or a different profile, e.g., straight). Although a handle is shown and described herein, the vessels herein in addition or alternatively may include lifting lugs to facilitate lifting, movement and securing during transport or maneuvering of the vessel.

[0098] Referring to Fig. 8, an alternate embodiment of a vessel 290 is shown, which is configured similar to the vessel 250 shown in Figs. 7A - 7D, but includes alternate flow inlet and outlet locations on the top end portion 293 and bottom end portion 293. Fig. 8 is an example of a cross-flow. The inlet opening 287 on the top end portion 293 is on the side, and the inlet pipe 288 is shown entering the vessel top end portion from the side, and the outlet opening 287 shown providing the outlet flow from the side (which in this embodiment is opposite that of the inlet), from the lower end portion, through the outlet pipe 288 (which is shown at the bottom end portion). The other portions of the vessel 290 may be constructed from the components of the vessel 250, such as the flow straighteners 259, the vessel body portion 252, the clamping members 281, 282, 283, 284, bolts 261, and gaskets 270. The flanges 293 a of the end portions 293 are shown connecting with the respective first and second vessel body flanges 252c, 252d. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 8, a cross-flow is shown with the inlet and outlet provided at about 180 degrees from each other, in opposite directions. Alternatively, according to other embodiments and implementations, the flow inlet and / or outlet may be provided from the side, with the flow directions being aligned in the same direction, or different, or clocked to a desired degree of rotation. Preferably, the flow straightener is clocked to match or to provide adesired position for the flow, and may be clocked the same or different than the top end portion or bottom end portion.

[0099] Referring to Fig. 9A, an alternate embodiment of an end portion 313 is shown which may be used in conjunction with a vessel body portion, such as the portions 112, 252 shown and described herein. The end portion 313 may comprise a first end and / or a second end or both end portions. In the embodiment depicted, the end portion 313 is shown comprising an end cap 314 forming an end of the end portion 313. The end cap 314 has an opening 315 therein, which may be fitted with a suitable fitting, coupling or valve to provide a connection to an inlet or outlet to respectively receive or distribute a flow of water / wastewater (inlet) or filtered water / wastewater (outlet). The end cap 314 is shown connecting to a spool piece 316 which provides spacing between the end cap 314 and a flow element, such as the flow straightener 317. The flow straightener 317 is disposed above the connecting portion 318 which includes a flange 318a. The end portion flange 318a connects to the flange of a vessel body, such as for example the flanges 112c, 112d of the vessel body 112, and / or the flanges 252c, 252d of the vessel body 252 (depending on the location of the end portion, e.g., first or second, top / bottom location). The end portion 313 is configured to be assembled and disassembled as needed. The components of the end portion 313 may be connected using threaded, such as, for example, threads provided on the end or ends thereof for connecting to an adjacent or adjacent component of the end portion 313. For example, the end cap 314 may be provided with threads at its end 314a, and the spool piece 316 may be provided with threads at its first end 316a for connecting with the end cap 314. The spool piece 316 also may have threads at its second end 316b for connecting with threads 317a of the flow straightener 317. The flow straightener also may have threads 317b at its second end for connecting to the end cap connecting portion 318, which may have mating threads 318b. Alternatively, connections of the components may be made using other methods of connecting such as for example, releasable clamps. Adhesive or welds may be used, but where assembly and disassembly is desired, the connection preferably is one that allows the end portion components to be connected and disconnected.

[0100] Referring to Fig. 9B, an alternate embodiment of an end portion 413 is shown. The end portion 413 may be used in conjunction with a vessel body portion, such as the portions 112, 252 shown and described herein. The end portion 413 has an opening 415 that serves as the inlet or outlet depending on the location of the end portion (first or top end, or second or bottom end). The end portion 413 is shown with a flow element comprising a flow straightener 416, and a connecting end portion 418 having a flange 418a. The end portion 413 has an end cap portion 414 which is shown having an area or zone of reduced volume near the inlet 415, which expands gradually to a larger volume area 414b. The end cap portion 414 is shown having a sloped or conical (frusto-conical) wall 414c which provides variation in the volume from the inlet / outlet to the connecting end 418. The end portion 413 may be fabricated, and one or more or all of the portions of the end portion may be fabricated together, as asingle component or adhered or welded. In the embodiment shown, the end cap portion 414 is shown as a single component. The end cap portion 414 may be connected to the other components, such as for example, the flow straightener 417 using a suitable connector. For example, the connection between the end cap portion 414 and flow straightener may be a releasable connection allowing the end cap portion 414 to be connected to and disconnected from the other components of the end portion 413. The flow straightener may be provided together with the connecting end 418 or alternatively may be releasably connected thereto (allowing connection to and disconnection from the end cap portion 414 and / or the flow straightener 417).

[0101] The vessels, such as those vessels 110, 250, 290, preferably are arranged in a plurality or other grouping to provide the needs for suitable filtration of water or wastewater. The vessels preferably are housed in an enclosure. Although an existing enclosure space, such as within an existing building or sheltered area, may be suitable for the vessels, other implementations may provide an enclosure configured to house the vessels and other associated equipment therein.

[0102] According to some embodiments, the enclosure or shell preferably is configured with a racking and divider system that allows for reconfiguration of the internal equipment into “channels” and “bays” versus simply placing treatment equipment freely in the interior space like prior devices. The ability to reconfigure the interior of the system and apparatus allows for a standard shell design to be applied to many treatment configurations which allows for cost savings via economies of scale. The modularity of the shell to achieve economies of scale sets the systems, methods and apparatus apart from prior devices which are designed without this flexibility in mind.

[0103] To accommodate the interior reconfiguration capabilities, the exterior of the enclosure provides doorways with removable doors that allow equal access to any possible interior configuration from any side of the shell. The racking and divider system is designed to align the doors with channels and bays on the interior to facilitate easier equipment maintenance, including providing ease of access to the vessels, flow lines, valves, and other components. The removable doors located throughout the perimeter of the enclosure or shell allow doors to be taken off for maintenance or to be swapped with permanent panels (door plugs or panels) based on the desired interior equipment configuration. Prior devices place doors in fixed locations which does not provide the flexibility for operations or the ability to have a standard shell design presented here to reap economies of scale.

[0104] The shell completely contains all internal equipment, and some embodiments include a built-in floor, so it can be placed on site at ground level on a concrete pad, elevated on a pedestal, or on a trailer.

[0105] The benefits of the multiple capable site placement options are as follows. For ground level mounting applications, the internal equipment including modular tanks described in subsequent sections can be accessed for maintenance operations using personnel or equipment like pallet jacks. A benefit to pedestal mounting is that accessing the internal equipment can be done from the height ofa standard truck loading gate dock height allowing a truck to back up to the shell for maintenance operations. A benefit to the trailer mounted option is for a truck to hitch up and quickly remove the entire system.

[0106] Having a variety of shell options allows for the systems and apparatus to be designed for site specifics such as ingress / egress availability, water quality, and safety. For example, if a design parameter such as water quality allows the use of a small number of media replacements in a given time period, a ground-mounted version can be deployed for personnel to quickly access the vessels with pallet jacks. If water quality is expected to drive a moderate number of media replacements, a pedestal mounted option can be deployed to allow personnel to move vessels right from inside the shell to inside a docked box truck. Doing so would be more efficient than moving vessels from the ground onto a trailer in some instances. If a very significant number of media replacements is expected due to water quality, the trailer mounted option can be deployed. Doing so would allow the entire or substantially the entire treatment system to be quickly taken out of service and replaced to minimize downtime and the effort required out of maintenance staff. For example, the vessels may be removed and taken out of service, as well as connecting lines, if that is needed to avoid potential contamination or other requirement.

[0107] In addition to having the above-mentioned features, the shell has several accessories that can be optionally installed. One optional accessory is the door plug (or panel) mentioned above. The door plug allows for an opening in the shell to be fixed closed. The plug is removable; however, according to some configurations, the panel may be installed in place and does not swing open and closed at will (so it is unlike a typical hinged door, in some embodiments). The door plugs can be flat panels, or the plugs can be used to allows penetrations for system appurtenances such as piping, electrical wiring, conduit, etc. The use of the plugs with penetrations for system appurtenances allows for those appurtenances to be placed through the most logical part of the shell to best match site conditions and the internal treatment configuration. The penetrations may be standardized for a door plug, and be provided at a number of locations, or may be customized to correspond with a desired configuration. According to some alternate embodiments, the penetrations may be accessed or opened as needed on a plug, with some penetrations remaining closed, while others can be activated to provide access. Some exemplary embodiments of the shell or enclosures, and arrangements of the system vessels and line connections are depicted in and discussed in connection with Figs. 10A to 10G.

[0108] Referring to Fig. 10A, a schematic illustration of an enclosure with a vessel arrangement is depicted. According to an exemplary embodiment, an enclosure 510 is shown having a base or floor 511, a walled surround 512, which is shown comprising plurality of walls 513, 514, 515, 516, and a roof or cover above the walls (which is not shown in the figure so as to provide a view into the enclosure space 517). A plurality of filtration vessels are shown in an exemplary arrangement, and are represented by rectangular boxes 520a ...520M, where n represents some number of vessels.. Eachvessel 520a . . . 520M, according to preferred embodiments, may comprise a vessel, such as, for example, the vessels 110, 250 shown and described herein. In the exemplary depiction illustrated, a plurality of vessels is shown comprising twelve vessels (although other numbers and arrangements may be utilized). In this exemplary arrangement, the vessels 520a through 510m are arranged in series, and there are groupings so that for example, four groups of three vessels are provided. The first vessel 520a receives an input comprising an inflow of water or wastewater (or other fluid). The inflow is shown supplied from a water or wastewater (or other fluid) source, and in the exemplary embodiment depicted is shown supplied from an inlet conduit 530. The inlet conduit 530 comprises an inlet header 531. The inlet header 531 is shown situated within the enclosure 510, and the inlet header 531 (in part) or source feeding into the inlet header may also be located outside of the enclosure and pass through one of the enclosure walls (or roof or floor) to span into the enclosure where the vessels 520a . . . 5201 may receive a flow therefrom. Alternatively, the input from the water, wastewater or other fluid to be filtered by the vessel arrangement, may be directly provided to one or more of the vessels 520a . . .5201.

[0109] The header 531 is shown comprising a pipe and is located along a rear wall 513 of the enclosure 510. The header preferably may be provided with a plurality of connectors, ports or taps, which permit a fluid connection to be made, such as to a hose, pipe or other conduit. In the exemplary arrangement, the header 531 is shown having four lines or hoses 533, 534, 535, 536, connecting the header flow space 531a with one of the vessels, respectively, 520a, 520d, 520g, and 520j, making a connection with the inlet 521a, 52 Id, 521g, and 52 Ij of each respective vessel. In the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of the outlets of the vessels are connected to provide their flow to an input of another vessel, such as for example, an adjacent vessel, or vessel in a row or another vessel within a grouping of vessels. The exemplary arrangement depicts an example where the respective outlets of the serially arranged vessels in each row are connected to provide their respective flows to the inlets of the respective adjacent vessels. For example, the vessel 520a has its outlet 540b connected by a line 560 (e.g., hose, pipe or other conduit) to the inlet 541a of the next adjacent vessel 520b. The vessel 520c represents the last vessel in the vessel row, which in this example has three vessels. In this example, the vessel 520b has its outlet 541b connected by a line 561 (e.g., hose, pipe or other conduit) to the inlet 542a of the next adjacent vessel 520c. The vessel 520c represents the last vessel in the vessel row, which in this example has three vessels. The outlet 542b of the vessel 520c is shown connected to deliver the flow to a location for distribution or further processing. In the example illustrated, a line 562 (e.g., hose, pipe or other conduit) delivers an output from the vessel 520c to a collection header 532 having a space 532a therein. The collection header 532 may therefore deliver the filtered output from the header 532 to a desired location for distribution or further processing.

[0110] As illustrated in the exemplary arrangement, the remaining vessel rows are also configured with their respective outlets connected to the respective inlets of the second and third vessels in therow. In the example depicted, the last vessel in each row, 520f, 520i, 5201, similar to the vessel 520c, in the first row, delivers its respective flow output through its respective outlet 545b, 548b, 551b to a line for distribution or further processing. The example illustrated shows a plurality of lines 563, 564, 565 respectively connected to the vessel outlets 545b, 548b, 551b delivering the outlet flows to the collection header 532.[OHl] The enclosure 510 is comprised of walls, which in the embodiment illustrated comprises a plurality of walls 513, 514, 515, 516. According to alternate embodiments, the wall configuration may comprise a single wall or other numbers of walls. Preferably, one or more of the walls is configured with access openings. As illustrated, the front wall 514 and side walls 513, 515 are shown provided with a plurality of panels 513a, 513b, 513c, which may comprise doors that can be opened (e.g., slid, swung, lifted and / or removed) to provide access to the components therein, such as the vessels and connecting apparatus, e.g., pipes, lines, valves, flow controllers, and other equipment. The side walls 513, 515 are shown provided with a plurality of panels 513a, 513b, 513c and 515a, 515b, 515c, respectively, such as doors that provide access into the enclosure space 517. One or more of the panels 513a, 513b, 513c and 515a, 515b, 515c may be configured as door plugs that are removable and replaceable, and which can house other equipment, such as electronics, programmable logic controllers, and other accessories. The removable door panel or plug allows implementing further features, including electronically controlled flow accessories, such as electronically controlled valves, flow meters, flow regulators, networking equipment for reporting and monitoring, as well as other accessories. Similarly, as shown in Fig. 10A, the front wall 514 is provided with a plurality of access panels 514a, 514b, 514c, 514dthat allow access to the enclosure space 517 and apparatus therein. The access preferably is provided at one or more of the enclosure walls, and according to some preferred embodiments, the access is provided at a plurality of the walls, and may be up to each enclosure wall that includes one or more access openings (e.g., such as access panels, doors, or the like).

[0112] Referring to Fig. 10B, an alternate arrangement is depicted to show a header pipe arrangement which in this illustration shows an inflow header 571 , and outflow header 572, and a plurality of a first set of inflow distribution pipes, comprising inflow pipes 573a, 573b, 573c, 573d, and a plurality of a second set of outflow distribution pipes, comprising outflow pipes 574a, 574b, 574c, 574d. A tank or vessel 575a, 575b, 575c is represented generally and may comprise the vessels 110, 250 shown and described herein. Although three vessels 575 a, 575b, 575 c are shown, the arrangement and number of vessels may be different, and the vessels are shown for illustration purposes. Other vessels and arrangements, such as vessels in one or more trains of vessels, may be housed within the enclosure 576, and enclosure space 576a, and the inlets and outlets of the respective vessels may be connected to one of the respective distribution pipes.

[0113] Referring to Fig. 10C, another alternate arrangement of a vessel configuration in an enclosure 577 is shown with the enclosure space 577a showing is schematic representation, boxes to representthree rows of three vessels 578a through 578, and open space boxes representing an empty slot (for potential vessels but which in this illustration are not needed or present). The enclosure 577 may be configured similar to the enclosures shown and described herein. For example, one or more doors may be provided which may be removable and replaceable to house accessories, such as for example, programmable logic controllers (PLC), electronics, and other components. Some examples of the door assembly may include mounting the door panel or plug using a suitable mechanism, such as, for example, lift-off hinges, tracks, or other removable mounting mechanism. The method implementation for an arrangement of vessels is depicted in an exemplary configuration. The arrangement shows a plurality of vessels 578a - 578i, in three rows of three each, with spaces 579a-579c at the end of each row. The number of vessels uses in the trains (e.g., such as in the rows provided) may be determined and adjusted based on the media filtration method, such as ion exchange, granular activated carbon (GAC) (or other media), as well as the flow (volume and rate, e.g., gpm). The arrangement may provide different numbers of vessels in the treatment trains. The enclosure 577 according to some embodiments may be standardized to provide the capability to accommodate a number of vessels, with additional spaces for adding vessels (e.g., for capacity), or providing an alternate vessel, if needed, when another vessel is changed out, or has an issue that requires attention. For example, vessels may handle GAC and ion-exchange in a variety of flow rates, and the enclosure and arrangement of vessels can be rated for flow rates up to a particular value, such as n gpm. As discussed herein, the vessel arrangement also may take into account the contaminant(s) to be fdtered as well as the quality of the source being filtered, water, wastewater or other fluid.

[0114] Referring to Figs. 10D, 10E, 10F and 10G, examples of enclosure modularity is depicted. In the schematic illustrations, interior modularity of the enclosure is shown. In Fig. 10D, for example, there is depicted a system of rails 580 which are connected together, such as with removable fasteners, e.g., bolts. The arrangement of the rails 580 is shown is solid lines in one configuration, and with broken lines to represent potential alternate arrangements and placements. Referring to Figs. 10E, 10F and 10G, further alternate arrangements of enclosure configurations are depicted. The arrangements schematically depict examples of dividers and bays, forming areas where the vessels may be positioned. In addition, electronics, process controllers and other system accessories (valve controls, pumps, monitors, communications equipment) may be located within the enclosure, and according to some embodiments, may be housed within a door plug or panel of the enclosure.

[0115] The filtration system may also be installed in an existing space of an existing structure. For example, as shown in Fig. 11 A, there is illustrated, a structure 1001, shown comprising a budling, has a first entry door 1002, and a second entry door 1003 (shown as the double doors 1003a, 1003b). Fig.11 A shows the building 1001 with the doors 1003a, 1003b closed, and a progression where the doors 1003a, 1003b are shown open, and finally, where a system of vessels 110 according to some embodiments, are shown provided in the existing open space 1005 of the building or structure 1001.There is shown in Fig 11B, an exemplary interior of the structure 1001, which shows the open space 1005, and a space 1006 where existing equipment, generally referenced as equipment elements 1007, 1008, 1009, 1010 (representing any type of existing equipment). The open space 1005 as shown in Fig. 1 IB also may be a portion of a larger space where other equipment, such as the equipment element 1011 represented in the figure.

[0116] Referring to Fig. 12, an exemplary embodiment of a connector line that may be used to connect one vessel to another (e.g., such as for example in the arrangement depicted in Fig. 10A), or a vessel inlet or outlet to another component, such as a header, pump, port, or other flow accessory. The connector 610 is shown comprising a length of a conduit such as the hose 611 (shown with a break to represent any suitable length). The hose 611 is fitted on each end thereof with a fitting 612, 613 that is secured to a respective end of the hose 611. The fittings 612, 613, each include a connection feature, which in the embodiment illustrated comprises threads 614, 615, respectively. The connecting ends such as the fittings 612, 613, preferably are provided to make connections with one or more components, such as other lines, tanks, vessels, conduits, pipes, hoses, and other connectors. One example of a compatible fitting is the fitting 616 which has a stem portion 616a with threads 616b thereon, shown connecting to the mating threads 615 of the fitting 613. The fitting 616 has, at its end opposite the threaded portion 616a, a male end 616c, which in the embodiment illustrated is shown depicted as a cam-lock fitting end having a groove 616d (male end) for receipt within a mating camlock fitting (female end). Shown disposed on the opposite end of the connector 610 is another fitting 618 which has a stem portion 618a with threads 618b thereon, and is connected to the end fitting 612 via the threads 614. In this exemplary embodiment, the fitting 618 comprises a cam-lock fitting, and is a female type of cam-lock fitting (i.e., a mating fitting type of the male cam-lock fitting 616). The cam-lock fitting 618 represents a female end. The fitting 618 is shown having a pair of arms 620, 621 that are pivotally connected to the fitting so they can be moved to provide a secure clamping engagement with another mating fitting, such as a fitting of the type shown as 616, and ready release thereof when disengaged. Mating fittings may be provided on the tanks, hoses, flow meters or other accessories and components, to provide a rapid connect and disconnect capability. The cam-lock fitting represents one example of a fitting that may be used for connecting hoses to the ports, valves, outlets, or other points of connection of the vessels shown and described herein. The fitting type allows for ease of access and the capability to engage and release the fitting connection in limited space or where maneuverability is limited. Alternatively, other suitable connectors may be used.

[0117] The vessels and systems may be provided using a trailer implementation. The trailer implementation provides a number of features and alternative means for transporting, replacing, maintaining and utilizing the vessels and system. Referring to Fig. 13, an exemplary depiction of a trailer 650 is shown, having wheels 651, and a tow hitch 652. The trailer 650 also includes a body 653. The body 653 is represented schematically, and according to preferred embodiments may comprise anenclosure with walls, with an enclosure space 653a for holding the vessels and associated connection hoses, and accessories therein. The trailer 650 may be presented at a loading dock, and be fitted with the treatment system, including an arrangement of vessels charged with filtration media, and in some implementations, connections between the vessels to provide a desired number of vessels and treatment trains. For example, one or more of the arrangements of the system of vessels depicted herein in the other figures may be provided within the trailer space 653a. The trailer walls may comprise side walls 653b, 653c and a top or ceiling 653d. The implementation of the trailer-based method, may include replacement of vessels, swapping out, as well as delivery of a system housed within a trailer. For example, according to some embodiments and implementations, the trailer may be even swapped out at a loading dock, to swap out a contingent of vessels, with another contingent of vessels. Trailers of vessels also may be swapped out with other trailers of vessels. Providing a ready system that can be delivered to the site, and removed from the site, thereby decreasing down-time, so a contingent of vessels may be trailered to a site to be readily placed in line. According to some implementations, the systems allow the vessels to be prepared and pre-processed before arrival at the site.

[0118] Referring to Fig. 14, there is shown a schematic illustration of a platform 654 for receiving vessels, having a top surface 655 and a plurality of legs 656 supporting the platform surface. The height of the top surface 655 preferably may be any suitable height, but can be constructed to correspond with the height of a standard loading dock, for ready transport of the vessels to and from the location, and onto and off of the top surface 655.

[0119] Referring to Fig. 15, there is shown a schematic illustration of another structure 657 for receiving vessels, having a base portion 658, supporting an enclosure 659, and shown with a ramp 660 that leads to the base surface 658a for installing and removing vessels within the enclosure. The ramp 660 may be provided in conjunction with the structure 657, or alternately may be supplied separately for deployment and removal as needed. The structure 657 may be made from a suitable structure, with the base portion 658 being for example concrete, and the enclosure being steel or aluminum, or other suitable material. The ramp may be concrete and provided with or as part of the base, or may be a separately provided member comprised of steel or other material that is suitable strong to hold the weight of vessels being transported on it. Although no doors are illustrated, one or more doors may be provided, such as for example, on the side of the enclosure where the ramp is located.

[0120] Referring to Figs. 16-22, there are illustrated embodiments of an alternate base support shown comprising a stand 710 for holding and supporting a vessel, such as the vessels shown and described herein. The stand 710 is shown comprising a support 711 having a profile that matches the vessel profile, however, where the vessel although shown has a profile other than cylindrical profile, then the vessel stand may optionally be configured to have a matching profile, or alternatively, the vessel with a different profile may be situated within the vessel stand of a different profile. Referring to Fig. 16, an exemplary embodiment of a stand 710 is illustrated and shows a support 711 having a cylindricalwall 711a, and space therein 71 lb and an interior wall surface 711c defining the interior space 71 lb. The support 711 is shown attached to a base structure 712 which comprises a platform. The base structure or platform 712 may optionally include a lifting element, such as skids or pockets 713, 714 that are designed to receive the tines of a lifting apparatus, such as a fork truck, pallet jack or other equipment. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 16, the base 712 also is shown provided with a plurality of casters 715 which are attached to the base 712. The casters 715 may be attached to the base 712 using any suitable connection or fattener. In the example illustrated, the casters 715 are shown secured to the base 712 with a plurality of bolts 716 that extend through the base 712. The base 712 is shown having predrilled apertures or bores for the bolts 716, and in addition, there are two sets of bores 717, 718 for the attachment of additional accessories. The base also has a bore 719 which may be used for a further accessory, such as a pulling tow, or handle (see e.g., Fig. 17). The support 711 is shown configured as a cylindrical pipe-like structure, which preferably is larger than the outer diameter of the vessel (or the vessel lower end portion). In the embodiment illustrated, the support has an upper flange 720 with a plurality of bores or apertures 721 in the upper flange 720 for receiving fasteners, such as bolts to facilitate connecting the vessel to further secure the vessel. The support 711 is shown having an access opening 722 provided in the support wall 711a to provide access to the vessel and connectors or ports, as well as hardware such as valves.

[0121] Referring to Fig. 17, the stand 710 is shown with an optional handle 725. The handle 725 is secured to the base 712, and preferably at the aperture 719 (Fig. 16). The handle 725 may be optionally attached to and removed from the base as needed, such as when transporting a vessel from a location to another. The stand 710 in Fig. 17 is also shown with an optional vertical support 726 which provides further support for the vessel. The vertical support 726 is shown comprising a plurality of straps 727, 728 that support the vessel and different locations along the vertical height of the vessel. The vertical support 726 is shown comprised of posts 730, 731 which are attached to the base 712 with respective feet 732, 733, using bolts 716. Preferably, the feet 732, 733 have a bolt pattern of apertures therein and connect with the respective apertures 717, 718 of the base (see Fig. 16). The vertical support 726 includes cross-members 734, 735 that span between the posts 730, 731. The cross members 734, 735 preferably are designed to engage and stabilize the vessel outer wall. The straps 727, 728 are shown comprising u-bolts that connect with the respective cross members 734, 735.

[0122] Referring to Fig. 18, an alternate configuration of the stand 710 is shown with the support 711, and optional vertical support 726, and with blocks 739 in place of the casters. The blocks provide a further option when needed, and may be attached to and detached from the base 712.

[0123] Referring to Fig. 19, an alternate configuration of the stand 710 is shown with the support 711, and optional vertical support 726, and with tires 740 in place of the casters. The tires provide yet a further option when needed, and may be attached to and detached from the base 712.

[0124] Referring to Figs. 20 and 21, the support 710 is shown supporting a vessel thereon, which for purposes of illustration is the vessel 250 shown and described herein. The straps 727, 728 are shown supporting the vessel wall 252a of the vessel body 252. The cross members 734, 735 also are shown supporting the vessel body 252. The lower pipe 270 which is the outlet pipe is shown situated at the opening 722 which may be accessed through the opening 722, and the valve connected thereto operated. In this embodiment, the vessel 250 is configured with the inlet pipe 270 and outlet pipe 270 facing the same direction, which is toward the vertical support. As shown in Fig. 21, the lower clamp 284 (Figs. 7A-7D) of the lower clamp pair 283, 284 is not required, and may be optional, as the flange 720 of the support 711 may be surrogated for the lower flange 284. The plurality of bolts (and nut end fasteners) are shown securing the vessel components together, and the vessel lower connection between the vessel end portion 253 and vessel body 252 with the support 711. An alternate embodiment is depicted in Figs. 23A-23C, which illustrates an alternate implementation where the vessel 250 is dropped or lowered into the support 711 and the support space 711b (see Fig. 19). The lower vessel clamp member 284 is seated on the flange 720 of the support 711. Preferably, the bores 721 provided in the flange 720 are counterbored or appropriately sized recesses, as shown in Fig. 23 C, to accommodate the bolt heads or nuts that secure the vessel clamps 283, 284 and lower vessel body flange 252d and lower end portion flange 253a.

[0125] Referring to Fig. 22, there is illustrated a vessel 250 on the support 710, similar to what is shown in Fig. 21, but with the orientation of the inlet pipe 270 and outlet pipe 270 disposed in opposite directions. The versatility of the system provide for the vessel, such as the vessel 250, to be assembled with connections provided in desired directions. In the example depicted in Fig. 22, the end portion 253 may be connected to the vessel body 252 in a different clocking or position, to locate the inlet and / or outlet at a different location, rotational position. The flow element, such as the flow straighteners 259 preferably are matched in their orientation with the alignment of their respective apertures, so that although a vessel end portion 253 may be installed and assembled in a different rotational position, the flow straighteners are installed and assembled to maintain consistency. According to some embodiments, the vessel support 711 is installed on the base 712 in a position and manner that allows the vessel support 711 to be moved, e.g., rotated in position, on the base 712 during installation. According to some alternate embodiments, the support 711 is fixed to the base 712, such as by welding, adhering, or other means. For example, bolts and / or brackets may be used to secure the support 711 to the base, and alternate apertures may be provided for bolting the support 711 in a desired position (e.g., rotational or clocked position) to locate the opening 722 at a position desired to match the location of the vessel outlet, such as the outlet pipe 270.

[0126] As shown herein, the vessels preferably comprise a flow element, such as the flow straighteners shown and described herein. According to some embodiments, the flow elements may be constructed to fit or seat within the vessel end portions, or within the vessel body, or may compriseintegrated components that are provided as part of the end portion, or the vessel. The flow straighteners according to some embodiments comprise a structure having a thickness and having a plurality of channels therethrough which provide flow paths for the water or wastewater (or other fluid) as the fluid moves from an entry location (e.g., such as the first end or inlet portion of the vessel) to the filter media (located within the vessel body). The flow straightener provides facilitates providing an even flow distribution to the filter media within the vessel space. According to some embodiments, the flow straighteners are assembled with the vessel portions, such as the respective first end portion, vessel body and second end portion with gaskets between them, while according to some alternate embodiments, the flow element, such as a flow straightener may be self-gasketing, or configured to comprise a gasket, and which itself may be clamped down on by the respective adjoining vessel portions to provide a sealing fit and connection.

[0127] The methods according to some embodiments may include configuring and assembling the vessels and vessel trains, and constructing arrangements of the vessels, and connections, as well as processes for maintaining, recharging, and adjusting and maintaining flow, Empty Bed Contact Time (EBCT) and Hydraulic Loading Rate (HLR) through the vessels. According to some implementations, the methods further includes processes for removal and replacement of filter media, via an existing vessel or a replacement vessel, as well as backwashing processes, and other steps that are carried out with the vessels and systems.

[0128] Referring to Fig. 24A, there is illustrated a flow diagram of an exemplary implementation of a method according to an embodiment, and in the Figs. 24A through 24E, subprocesses and process steps and groupings thereof are shown, providing exemplary implementations for processes of the inventive methods. At the start block, 910, options are shown to determine a further step or steps, block 911. One of the options that is checked is the flow total or flow pressure. The system and method react to whether there is a flow total or pressure triggering the change of one or more vessels, block 912. Another option that is checked is the sample concentrations for contaminants or other compounds, for example, whether a PFAS sample is triggering a change of one or more vessels, block 913. This determination may be made according to a PFAS sampling protocol, such as for example, with the systems and / or methods disclosed in US Patent Application Serial no. 63 / 649,502 filed on May 20, 2024, disclosing batch polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) pilot methods and apparatus, the complete contents of which is herein incorporated by reference. The system and methods may react to a related water quality indicator. A further option is a check or determination of whether a related, water quality indicator is triggering a change of one or more vessels, block 914. The system and methods may react to maintenance activities, including ones that the system and method implement. For example, another consideration or option that is checked or determined is whether preventative maintenance is triggering the change of one or more vessels, block 915. These options and determinations are potential points for when a maintenance or replacement of the filtration system or one or more of its components, suchas a vessel or vessels is to be replaced, cleaned, recharged, or have another application done to the system or system components.

[0129] In the example illustrated and represented in Fig. 24A, determinations of options in the negative result in an end of the inquiry or check, as represented by blocks 916 and 917. However, a positive or affirmative response for one of the determinations is shown proceeding to the desired replacement type, block, 918. In the exemplary depiction, there are shown three exemplary options of the method and system which include, a first option, block 921, which involves replacing the media in one or more existing vessels, which may also include returning the one or more vessels to the treatment train or a group of vessels, e.g., such as vessels within an enclosure. Another option is depicted that comprises backwashing one or more existing vessels and returning the vessels to the train or a group of vessels, block 922. A further option is illustrated, which includes replacing the media at a later time and swapping one or more existing vessels in the treatment train or group with a prepared, spare or additional vessel, block 923. The options depicted in blocks 921, 922 and 923 show exemplary steps for the fdtration method using one or more or groupings or trains of vessels. The vessels used may be a conventional vessel or preferably, maybe the vessels shown and described here in in connection with the inventive vessel embodiments. The method steps for carrying out the options represented in blocks 921, 922 and 923 correspond respectively to the designations A, B, and C in the figure 24A, which are represented in the subsequent Figures 24B, 24C and 24D.

[0130] Referring to Fig. 24B, there are illustrated steps for option A, which involves taking a vessel or vessels out of service, and the subprocesses for carrying out the method, block 925. In an exemplary implementation of the process or subprocess, to remove a vessel, a valve to the inlet and / or outlet of the vessel is closed, or flow entering the vessel, and exiting the vessel is discontinued and / or stopped by an inline valve or other control. The vessel connections are released to disconnect the vessel so the vessel is freely removable from the train or its installed condition. The media contained within the vessel is removed, block 926, and according to an exemplary implementation, is removed pursuant to a remove media subprocess (further depicted in Fig. 24D, blocks 944-947). For the vessels shown herein, such as the vessels 110 and 250, this step typically may involve removing one or both ends of the vessel, to provide access to the media, and removal of the media therein. In this process depiction, the vessel is then prepared so it can be replaced in the train or group of vessels, depicted by the prepare vessel subprocess, block 927 (and blocks 948, 950-952 of Fig. 24D). The preparation of the vessel may involve adding new media to the vessel, and include assembling together the vessel components, where the vessel components were previously disassembled (e.g., for removal of the media or other purpose). Once the vessel is prepared for use, then the vessel is placed in service, block 928. The placement of the vessel in service, which in this example is depicted as the subprocess, 928 (further illustrated in the example in Fig. 24D, blocks 940-943) may involve a placement of the vessel, which can be a return of the vessel, to the vessel train from which it was taken. This process of removal andreplacement of media may be carried out for one or more or all of the vessels in a group or train. Once the vessel is placed in service, then the sub process ends, block 930, and the vessel may be used for its desired purpose in the treatment line. (Alternately, the vessel that has been removed from the treatment group or train may be processed and placed in service at a different location. This may take place when an already prepared vessel is ready or available to take the place of the removed vessel, and it is switched out, see e.g., Fig. 24E.)

[0131] Referring to Fig. 24C, there are illustrated steps for option B, which involves taking a vessel or vessels out of service for backwashing. In this subprocess, block 931, one or more of the vessels is taken out of service. The one or more vessels then undergo a backwash procedure, such as a backwash subprocess, block 932, which involves backwashing the vessel and typically the media contained therein. The procedure may involve the use of a backwashing reservoir or tank to store the backwash fluid (which may contain contaminants that require special handling or treatment), while in other instances, the backwashing procedure may be able to be carried out according to another suitable recycling, reclamation or other process. Once the backwash of the one or more vessels is completed, then the vessel may be placed back into service, block 933. The backwash subprocess may be carried out for one or more or all of the vessels in a group or train, block 934. Once the vessel is placed in service, then the sub process ends, block 935 and the one or more vessels may be used for a desired purpose in the treatment line. An example of a backwash subprocess is illustrated in the flow diagram of Fig. 24D, blocks 952-956.

[0132] Referring to Fig. 24D, there is a flow diagram illustrating exemplary methods for carrying out a number of subprocesses in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, such as the subprocesses referred to in Figs. 24A-C and E. The subprocess of taking one or more vessels out of service, block 935, is referenced in Figs. 24B and 24C, blocks 925 and 931, respectively. The taking one or more vessels out of service subprocess, block 935, involves closing the flow to and from the vessel, which may be done by closing the vessel inlet and outlet valves to isolate the vessel, block 936. With the flow cut off and the vessel or vessels isolated, the one or more vessels may be disconnected from their inlet and outlet connections, and taken out of service, block 937. Taking the one or more vessels out of service in this example, involves physically removing the one or more in-service vessels from the treatment train or group, block 938. Also shown in Fig. 24D is a vessel in service placement subprocess for placing a vessel in a treatment group or train, block 940. The one or more vessels are physically placed in the treatment group or train, block 941. The one or more vessels placed in the treatment train are connected to the inlet and outlet connectors, such as hoses or other connectors and are ready for service, block 942. The respective inlet and outlet valves of the one or more vessels are opened to allow for flow through the one or more vessels, block 943. An exemplary depiction of a remove media subprocess, block 944 is illustrated, and involves providing access to the media within the vessel, which in the exemplary process depicted, comprises uncoupling the top portion of a vessel(such as the first or top end portion) to provide access, block 945, and removing, such as, for example, by pumping the media out of the vessel, block 946. The vessel or vessels are empty once the media is removed, and each vessel is then rinsed to remove prior contaminant traces, block 947. A vessel preparation subprocess is depicted in an exemplary diagram. The vessel subprocess is prepared by pumping in new media to the vessel space, block 950. In this example, where the top or end portion was removed, it is now replaced so that the top assembly, (end cap, top portion, flow element, such as a flow straightener, and other components) are replaced and the top portion is recoupled to the vessel (e.g., such as to the vessel body). Once the media is in the vessel and the top secured, then the backwash subprocess, 952 may be carried out. The backwash subprocess, 952 is shown in an exemplary depiction, where the process steps involve connecting the inlet of a vessel to a backwash line, and connecting the outlet of the vessel to a drain line, block 953. The media is then backwashed, which takes place according to the media providers / manufacturer’s guidelines, block 954. When the backwashing has been completed, then the inlet and outlet valves are closed, block 955, and the backwash and drain lines are disconnected, block 956.

[0133] Referring to Fig. 24E, an exemplary subprocess for vessel preparation is depicted, block 957. This subprocess is an example of the procedure depicted in block 923 of Fig. 24 A, as the option C. In this example, the steps involve transporting one or more spare vessels to the treatment train, block 958, which for example, may be from a location off-site of where the vessel treatment train is located. The subprocess of taking one or more vessels out of service, block 959 may be carried out (an example of which subprocess is depicted in blocks 935 to 938 of Fig. 24D). The one or more vessels taken out of service are then set aside, and the spare vessels are swapped in, in place of the one or more set aside vessels, block 960. At this juncture of the exemplary process, two options are illustrated. A first option involves using the one or more spare vessels (for the set aside vessels), which are prepared and are placed in service, block 961. The place vessels in service subprocess, block 962 (and blocks 940-943 of Fig. 24D) may be carried out to provide vessels for the set aside vessels (see block 960). The process may be repeated for each or all of the vessels, as desired, block 963. The completion of this subprocess typically completes when the spare vessels have been placed in line and are operating to handle the flow. Alternatively, a second option depicted involves proceeding using used vessels, block 964. The used vessels in this exemplary depiction are removed and taken off-site, block 965, where the remove media subprocess is carried out, block 966. The process may be repeated for each or all of the vessels, as desired, block 963, or the first option may be completed for some vessels, while the second options for others. This may depend on the media types involved, such as for example, when some vessels are one type of media (e.g., ion exchange media), and others of the vessels are of a different media (e.g., granular activated carbon (GAC)). The vessels shown and described herein, such as the vessels 110, 250 and other embodiments thereof, may be used to carry out the processes and subprocesses, and are designed to facilitate preparation, cleaning, charging with media, removal, replacement, maneuverability, and other actions that may be required to be implemented in a water or wastewatertreatment system. The inventive vessels provide further capabilities and improvements over prior apparatus.

[0134] Referring to Fig. 24F a schematic flow diagram is depicted, illustrating an exemplary implementation of the system and method according to an embodiment. In the example, there is a process start, block 965. A number of determinations are ascertained, which may involve physical, electronic or combinations thereof. Site flow data, block 966 is considered, which involves the expected flow and throughput for the site for the water or wastewater or other fluid to be processed. The site source water quality data, block 967 is used to indicate the level of contamination and types of contaminants present in the target site waster source. Civil and architectural data, block 968, provides further considerations for deployment, and configuring the system options, including transport and site options for locating the vessels. Site power availability data, block 969 allows the configuration of whether power systems are already available, for example, for pumping, operation of electronics, reporting, and other system needs. Future operations and maintenance considerations are accounted for, block 970, as are the local and federal regulations (e.g., municipal, provincial, state, community, national, country-specific) which may govern parameters, e.g., effluent targets, HLR, EBCT, and other metrics and standards to be met or have ranges), block 971. The vessel design process, block 972 is commenced and is designed and assembled together based on one or more configurations that will provide suitable filtration of the source, such as water, wastewater or other fluid, for the contaminant(s) of concern, such as the target substances to be removed or treated by the process. The method involves selection of a vessel diameter, this diameter preferably is for the flow within the vessel body, such as the vessel bodies 112, 252 of the vessels 110, 250, as well as the diameters of each end portion (e.g., 113, 114, 253). The height of the vessel body 112, 252 is configured as a selection. The number of vessels, and their configuration as one or more trains, is configured, block 975. A flow element, such as s flow straightener also is configured for use in the vessel, preferably at the top and bottom, e.g., before and after the filter media, block 976. The flow straightener may be configured as discussed, with a pattern of apertures which may be greater or smaller in one or more areas of the flow straightener to provide the desired flow through the media within the vessel. The base assembly also is configured and options for the base assembly, may include the terrain over which the vessels need to be moved, located, or relocated, as well as whether the vessels require motility or can have a stationary positioning, block 977. The configuration of the system and vessel constructions and arrangements may be adjusted in the method until the inputs are balanced with the vessel configuration, block 978. The adjustments may continue, process line 979, with changes to the diameter, vessel height, number of vessels for a train, number of trains, as well as flow straightener configurations, until the system will achieve the filtration goals, and can be workable for the selected site location, and for the source and flow.

[0135] Embodiments of the vessel end portions may comprise different shapes and configurations, which allow assemble to and disassembly from the vessel body, as shown and described herein in conjunction with vessel end portions. Referring to Fig. 25, an alternate embodiment of a vessel end portion 1053 is illustrated in a sectional view. The vessel end portion 1053 is shown having a hemispherical configuration, with a flange 1053a and a wall 1053c. The flange 1053a may be secured to one or the respective vessel body flanges (e.g., such as the vessel body flanges 252c, 252d), and a gasket or other seal may be provided between the respective flanges 1053 a and a vessel body flange to provide a seal against water exiting the vessel and from the intrusion of outside elements into the vessel space. The vessel end portion 1053 is shown having an opening 1057 that comprises an inlet and / or an outlet and communicates with the interior space 1053d of the end portion 1053. The end portion 1053 is also shown having another opening 1053b, which in this embodiment is disposed opposite the inlet / outlet opening 1057. The opening 1053b is situated to communicate with the vessel body space when the end portion 1053 is connected to a vessel body. The vessel end portion 1053 is shown as an alternate option for use in connection with the vessels and vessel systems disclosed herein, and may be connectable and disconnected from a vessel body at one end, or, vessel end portions may connects to both ends of a vessel body. Flow elements, gaskets and other connectors or intermediary components may be disposed between the end portion 1053 and a vessel body. The flange 1053a may be attached to the vessel body by clamping, bolting or other securing mechanism. Some embodiments may provide apertures or bores in the flange that align with apertures or bores in the vessel body flange, or a supporting structure.

[0136] Fig. 26 shows a sectional elevation view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel end portion 1153, shown having an elliptical configuration with an opening 1157 that comprises an inlet and / or outlet and another opening 1153b that is provided to communicate with the vessel body space. The vessel end portion 1153 also includes a flange 1153a and a wall 1153c, and, like the vessel end portion 1053 (in Fig. 25), may be used in conjunction with the systems and vessels shown and described herein.

[0137] Fig. 27 is a side elevation view of another alternate embodiment of a vessel assembly according to an exemplary embodiment, shown with the vessel inlet and outlets disposed on the vessel body. The vessel assembly 1250 is shown comprising a first end portion 1253 and a second end portion 1253, which in this exemplary embodiment are configured as hemi-spherical end portions. The end portions 1053 are connected to the vessel body 1252 at each end of the vessel body. The vessel body 1252 is shown with a first port or opening 1252c, and a second port or opening 1252d. A first pipe or fitting 1255 is shown connected at the first port or opening 1252a providing an inlet / outlet 1256 for flow communication from the exterior to the interior of the vessel. The pipe or fitting 1255 may connect with a pipe, hose or other line, to allow a fluid flow into or out from the vessel space. A second pipe or fitting 1257 is shown provided at another end of the vessel body 1252, connecting with the secondport or opening 1252d providing an inlet / outlet 1258 for flow communications out from the vessel space, or into the vessel space. The second pipe or fitting 1257 also is shown connecting to a manifold 1259 that may collect (or disperse) a flow from the vessel interior and pass the flowthrough the second pipe or fitting 1257.

[0138] Figs. 28A and 28B are isometric views of a vessel assembly 1350, shown with an alternate embodiment of a vessel support 1410. The vessel assembly 1350 is shown configured with a first end 1353, and a second end 1353 which are disposed at opposite ends of the vessel body 1352. In the embodiment illustrated, an exemplary connector is shown comprising bolts that secure the respective flanges 1353 a of each end portion 1353, withone of the flanges 1352a, 1352b of the vessel body 1352. The vessel support 1410 is shown having a plurality of threaded rods 1411, 1412, 1413 (the fourth rod being hidden in the view shown) which are secured to a structure, such as a floor or base 1420. In the embodiment illustrated, the base 1420 includes pockets or slots 1427, 1428 which may receive tines of a fork truck or pallet lift. Alternatively, the lateral slots 1430, 1431 on the exterior of the base 1420 may be configured to receive a lifting apparatus, such as arms or tines that engage the base via the lateral slots for lifting and movement of the base and vessel assembly supported thereon. The rods 1411, 1412, 1413 preferably include at least one threaded portion 1411a, 1412a, 1413a (the fourth rod not shown), and feet 1421, 1422, 1423, 1424 are shown securing the respective ends of the threaded rods to the base 1420. Embodiments of the feet may comprise a plate, nut plate, grommet or other suitable mount. The rods 1411, 1412, 1413 may be entirely threaded over their length, or have one or more threaded portions. The rods 1411, 1412, 1413 provide a self-leveling feature by adjustment of the height through the bolts that connect each rod to the flanges 1352b and 1352a to level the vessel assembly 1350 supported thereby. In the embodiment depicted, the end portion flange 1353a of the end portion 1353 (in the lower position) connects with the vessel body flange 1352b. The vessel body flange 1352b (in the lower position shown in Fig. 28B) has a collar portion that is shown connecting with the vessel body, and another portion that connects with the flange 1353a of the end portion 1353. The vessel assembly 1350 also is shown with an end portion 1353 at the top or upper end (in Fig.28A). According to the exemplary embodiment, the end portion 1353 at the top has a flange 1353a that connects with the vessel flange 1352a (which may be similar to the vessel flange 1352b (shown and described in Fig. 28B). A plurality of fasteners, such as the bolts 1429a and nuts 1429b, are shown connecting the flanges together, and, in the embodiment depicted, the support 1410 supports the vessel assembly 1350 with the rods 1411, 1412, 1413 (and another not shown) extend through the end portion flange 1353a, and the vessel flange 1352b and are secured with fasteners such as the nuts 1429b, that secure the respective support rods 1411, 1412, 1413 (and another not shown) to the flanges. The other end of each of the support rods 1411, 1412, 1413 (and another not shown) are connected to the base 1420 via the respective feet 1421, 1422, 1423, 1424. The feet or mounts 1421, 1422, 1423, 1424 may be secured to the base 1420 using a suitable securing element, such as for example threaded bolts 1435 shown in the exemplary embodiment depicted. The pockets 1427, 1428 provide spacing for mountingthe feet or mounts 1421, 1422, 1423, 1424. The feet or mounts 1421, 1422, 1423, 1424 may be mounted to the base 1420 using a fastener that extends through the base top surface 1420a. Fasteners 1435, which may comprise bolts and nuts may extend through the base 1420 surface 1420a, and can be accessed through the pockets 1427, 1428 to secure the fasteners. The support rod ends that connect with the respective feet 1421, 1422, 1423, 1424 may also be threaded, and the feet may be matingly threaded to receive an end of the respective support rods. In the embodiment illustrated, a nut 1429b is shown securing the rod ends to the respective feet. The support 1410 although shown with the vessel assembly 1350, also may be used in conjunction with the other vessels and vessel assemblies shown and described herein. The vessel assembly 1350 may be configured with one or more gaskets, flow elements such as a flow straightener, and may include a media bed or support in the vessel assembly, including one or more of the components shown and described herein in connection with other embodiments. For example, at the engagement of the flanges (such as between an end portion flange 1353a and a vessel body flange 1352a, 1352b) a gasket may be provided, and one or more of the flanges may have a groove disposed in its engaging surface to accommodate the gasket or portion thereof. Also, as illustrated in Figs. 28 A and 28B, fittings or couplings 1361, 1362 are shown to provide an inlet / outlet to the vessel, which in the embodiment illustrated are at each vessel assembly end, shown provided to communicate with each end portion 1353. The fittings or couplings also are shown with valves 1363, 1364 which regulate flow into / out of the vessel assembly 1350.

[0139] Backwashing Methods

[0140] The portability and mobility of the cartridge tanks allow for the cartridge tanks or vessels to be combined with a pressure vessel roughing filter method where multiple series connected vessels are used. For the upstream vessels in the train that are not used as compliance point vessels, they are simply serving to reduce the load to the downstream vessels. Therefore, according to some implementations of the methods, these vessels can be backwashed to further enhance the life of the media at the system level. Typically backwashing a vessel already in service is not recommended because of the increased risk of PFAS desorption and intermixing the media bed. When the media bed is intermixed, premature PFAS breakthrough is likely to occur. Since the upstream vessels are already allowing breakthrough by serving as roughing filters, intermixing is no longer a concern. Instead, when competing parameters begin to clog the media in the vessels serving as roughing filters, they can be taken out of service, backwashed to remove the competing parameters, and placed back in service. Carrying out this procedure extends and prevents or substantially minimizes exhaustion of the vessels serving as roughing filters (in particular, the media therein) for a longer period of time and therefore increases the overall life of the media throughout the system.

[0141] The cartridge tanks or vessels allow for the backwashing to be conducted at a convenient location just like the benefits delivered during backwashing for commission described above and herein. The additional benefits delivered when using the cartridge tanks in tandem with roughingfilters for backwashing is that any water captured in the backwash process is already in a convenient location (typically an off-site location) where it can be handled appropriately, such as, for example, being taken to a centralized waste management facility.

[0142] Application of the Backwashing Method to Traditional Vessels

[0143] The process described above for backwashing a pressure vessel roughing filter using cartridge tanks and vessels of the inventive system can also be applied to full-scale, non-modular tanks. However, it should be noted that managing the waste streams comes with significantly more logistical and operations challenges when conducted on-site. For example, the backwash water will likely need to be stored in temporary tanks on site which limits the volume to however many temporary tanks can be taken to the site. For the cartridge tanks or vessels described herein, the volume of backwash water that can be handled may be limited only by what an off-site location maintenance hub or waste disposal site can handle which will ordinarily be much larger. Otherwise, the roughing filter life extension benefits are the same as when the inventive cartridge tanks are used as the filtration vessels.

[0144] Controls for Maintaining HLR

[0145] Embodiments may also provide methods for controlling the HLR in order to minimize the chances of premature PF AS breakthrough or disturbing the media bed. Premature PF AS breakthrough renders the media wasted and requires a premature replacement which is very costly. Disturbing the media bed also increases the likelihood of premature breakthrough and the costs associated with that waste. Flows below the recommended HLR for the media risk premature breakthrough, and flows above the recommended HLR risk disturbing the media bed. By applying the controls method and alternative methods presented herein as a part of the inventive processes and steps, the HLR is controlled within the preferred range regardless of site flow variations entering the treatment system to minimize the risk of bearing the costs associated with premature PFAS breakthrough.

[0146] The traditional method of media protection for flow variation on-site is to monitor the system flow via a flowmeter which signals to a control valve and bypass pump. This bypass line runs when the flow for either distribution system demand for drinking water applications or upstream supply for wastewater / stormwater applications approaches zero. The bypass line runs until the system flow (either demand or supply depending on the application) crosses back above the low flow setpoint. At which point, the bypass line turns off.

[0147] The problem the traditional bypass control scenario faces is that it can be very difficult to coordinate the controls to still not allow for periods of flows below and above the HLR range targeted due to the fact that pumps have to turn on and off which takes time. For example, a control setpoint turning on the bypass may have a lag time where the flow through the pressure vessel falls below the HLR minimum until the pump turn on. VFDs and storage tanks can improve the timing situation issues, but it is much more advantageous to run the treatment system using the embodiments of themethods shown and described herein. The bypass can then be optionally provided in the system as redundancy or a stand-by in the event of failures to the main controls system.

[0148] At a high level, the control scheme for the inventive methods, system and apparatus is as follows:

[0149] 1. Purposely configure the pressure vessels in a single train to operate at the HLR minimum recommended value or just slightly higher than that value when a control valve is throttled back to its lowest feasible percent open. Also configure the pressure vessel train to operate at the HLR maximum recommended value or just slightly lower than that value when a control valve is throttled back to its maximum percent open.

[0150] 2. Ensure there are enough parallel trains of vessels and control valves in the arrangement such that the entire flow range for the site is covered. This number of vessel trains with control valves iteratively affects the tank sizing in point 1.

[0151] 3. With the parallel trains designed and corresponding valve percent opens matched to the ends of the flow range for the HLR range, set the control valves to open based on a flowmeter that monitors the entire system flow.

[0152] 4. As system flow increases, the percent open on each parallel train opens and vice versa. All valves in the parallel train open to the same percent open to maintain equal flow through each parallel train. An alternative method is to size the parallel trains the same as in points 1 and 2 above. Also monitor system also use a system flowmeter like point 3 above. Then:

[0153] 5. As system flow increases, the percent open on each parallel train opens and vice versa. Each control valve in each parallel train opens to the different percent opens in sequence to split flow through each parallel train.

[0154] 6. Optionally alternate the sequence order over time to balance the consumption of media in each train.

[0155] Both control methods can be done with all tanks and corresponding valve setpoints sized the same from one train to the next. Alternatively, a mix of sizes between trains can be employed. The control scheme stays the same, but setpoints differ to match the sizing.

[0156] Ultimately the benefits of making the sizing different between trains must outweigh the drawbacks of additional controls and system design complexity. Some of the benefits to choosing one method over the other with equal or different sizing include saving energy consumption or creating economies of scale by having common equipment. The site specifics and flow range including peak flows is another factor to consider when comparing the various alternative methods. However, regardless of which method is chosen (whether the vessels of a train are configured with similar sizing, or whether the vessels of a train are configured with different sizing) the benefits delivered remain the same.

[0157] The apparatus and devices herein, including the vessels, valves and flow accessories may comprise electronically actuatable and controllable components, and the methods may be implemented electronically where the flow of water through the apparatus vessels, conduits and pipes may be controlled by controlling the valves, such as the inlet and outlet valves associated with each vessel, or flow through a vessel train, as well as other valves that may be provided for flows to the system and distribution of the filtered water from the system. According to some embodiments and implementations the vessels may include one or more openings in addition to the inlet and outlet openings, such as for example, to provide an air release valve, pressure relief valve, and / or one or more valves for sampling. For example, according to some embodiments, the vessel may be configured with one or more sampling ports, which may be provided along the vessel body, and / or on the end portions. According to some implementations and embodiments, the apparatus is manually operated. However, according to some alternate embodiments, the apparatus is electronically operated.

[0158] The exemplary embodiments depicts flanges and clamps to secure the components such as the vessel body portion to the end portions. However, according to some alternate embodiments, threads may be provided at the end of each of the vessel body openings and end portion opening, so that the end portions may be rotated and secured by the mating or complementary threads. Alternatively, welds or adhesive may be used to secure the vessel body portion to the end portion, where disassembly is not required. Welds and / or adhesive connections of the components, such as, for example, the end portions and vessel body portions, may be used as an addition to, or an alternative to the clamps and bolts shown in the figures. Other alternative connection mechanisms may be employed to connect the vessel body portion with end portions, some examples of which may include pipe joining couplings with gasketing and sealing (e.g., such as couplings sold under the brand Victaulic®).

[0159] While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms of the disclosure. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the features of various implementing embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the disclosure. Features disclosed in one embodiment may be implemented in one or more of the other embodiments, separately or in combination with other features.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A vessel for filtering water and wastewater comprising:i) at least one vessel body comprising a wall enclosing a space therein, the vessel having an opening at each end thereof;ii) a first end portion having an opening at one end thereof and another opening that comprises an inlet / outlet;iii) a second end portion having an opening at one end thereof and another opening that comprises an inlet / outlet;iv) the vessel body space communicating with the first end portion opening via the vessel opening at one of the vessel ends, and the vessel body space communicating with the second end portion opening via the vessel opening at the other one of the vessel ends;v) a filter support within the vessel;wherein the vessel has a flow path that includes an entry at the inlet / outlet of the first end portion, extends through the vessel body space and exits at the inlet / outlet of the second end portion.

2. The vessel of claim 1, wherein the first end portion, second end portion and vessel body are modular components that are connected together to form the vessel.

3. The vessel of claim 1, wherein the first end portion is attachable to and releasable from the vessel body; and wherein the second end portion is attachable to and releasable from the vessel body.

4. The vessel of any one of claims 1 to 3, including at least one connector for connecting the first end portion and the vessel body together; and at least one connector for connecting the second end portion and vessel body together.

5. The vessel of claim 4, wherein the at least one connector for connecting the first end portion and the vessel body together comprises a first releasable connector that releasably connects the first end portion and the vessel body together; and wherein the at least one connector for connecting the second end portion and vessel body together comprises a second releasable connector that releasably connects the second end portion and the vessel body together.

6. The vessel of claim 2, wherein the vessel body space comprises a media space for holding filter media.

7. The vessel of claim 6, further including at least one first flow element disposed along the vessel flow path.

8. The vessel of claim 7, including at least one second flow element disposed along the vessel flow path.

9. The vessel of claim 7, wherein the at least one flow element is located along the flow path prior to the media space.

10. The vessel of claim 9, wherein the at least one second flow element is located along the flow path after the media space.

11. The vessel of claim 9, wherein the at least one flow element comprises a flow straightener.

12. The vessel of claim 11, wherein the flow straightener comprises a walled structure having a plurality of bores therein arranged to structure the flow through the flow path.

13. The vessel of claim 10, wherein the at least one flow element comprises a flow straightener that comprises a walled structure having a plurality of bores therein arranged to structure the flow through the flow path; and wherein the at least one second flow element comprises a second flow straightener that comprises a walled structure having a plurality of bores therein arranged to structure the flow through the flow path.

14. The vessel of claim 6, wherein the fdter support comprises a screen.

15. The vessel of claim 13, wherein the second flow straightener is disposed along the flow path after the filter media.

16. The vessel of claim 15, wherein the filter support comprises a screen, and wherein the second flow straightener is disposed along the flow path after the screen.

17. The vessel of claim 10, wherein the filter support comprises the at least one second flow element.

18. The vessel of claim 15, wherein the filter support comprises a screen, and wherein the screen is supported on the second flow straightener.

19. The vessel of claim 4, wherein each of the at least one connectors comprises threads provided at each vessel body end, and matingly associated threads provided on each of said first end portion and said second end portion.

20. The vessel of claim 4, wherein the at least one connector for releasably connecting the first end portion and the vessel body together comprises a first clamp provided to clamp together a first vessel body end and the first end portion, and wherein the at least one connector for releasably connecting the second end portion and vessel body together comprises a second clamp provided to clamp together a second vessel body end and the second end portion.

21. The vessel of claim 20, wherein each clamp comprises a pair of rings that are secured together to provide a clamping force.

22. The vessel of claim 21, wherein the rings have apertures therein, and wherein each pair of rings are disposed with their apertures aligned, and wherein fasteners pass through the respective apertures to secure the rings in a clamping engagement with the vessel body ends and a respective one of the first end portion and second end portion.

23. The vessel of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first end portion includes a flange, wherein the second end portion includes a flange, wherein the vessel body comprises a pair of flanges disposed at each end thereof; wherein the first end portion annular connects to one of the vessel body flanges, and wherein the second end portion flange connects to the other of the vessel body flanges.

24. The vessel of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first end portion includes an annular flange, wherein the second end portion includes an annular flange, wherein the vessel body comprises a pairof annular flanges disposed at each end thereof; wherein the first end portion annular flange connects to one of the vessel body annular flanges, and wherein the second end portion annular flange connects to the other of the vessel body annular flanges.

25. The vessel of claim 24, including connectors that connect the first end portion annular flange to one of the vessel body annular flanges and connect the second end portion annular flange to the other of the vessel body annular flanges.

26. The vessel of claim 25, wherein the connectors comprise annular rings disposed on each side of the connecting flanges.

27. The vessel of claim 25, wherein the connectors comprise bolt and nut fasteners, and wherein the flanges have apertures therein for receiving the bolts therethrough.

28. The vessel of claim 27, wherein the flanges and annular rings have apertures therein, and wherein the connectors further include bolt and nut fasteners, and wherein the bolts pass through the apertures to secure the first end portion annular flange and the second end portion annular flange with a respective one of the vessel body annular flanges.

29. The vessel of claim 22, wherein the first end portion includes an annular flange, wherein the second end portion includes an annular flange, wherein the vessel body comprises a pair of annular flanges disposed at each end thereof; wherein the first end portion annular flange connects to one of the vessel body annular flanges, and wherein the second end portion annular flange connects to the other of the vessel body annular flanges.

30. The vessel of claim 24,wherein the at least one flow element comprises a flow straightener that comprises a walled structure having a plurality of bores therein arranged to structure the flow through the flow path; and wherein the at least one second flow element comprises a second flow straightener that comprises a walled structure having a plurality of bores therein arranged to structure the flow through the flow path;wherein one of the flow elements is disposed between the first end portion annular flange and the one of the vessel body annular flanges, wherein the other of the flow elements is disposed between the second end portion annular flange and the other of the vessel body annular flanges; and wherein each clamp pair secures a respective one of the flow elements.

31. The vessel of claim 24, including flow elements comprising flow straighteners, disposed between each of the respective annular flanges of the first end portion and vessel body, and second end portion and vessel body, wherein the flow straighteners further comprise gaskets between the annular flanges between which they are located.

32. The vessel of claim 2, including a handle.

33. The vessel of claim 2, including a base, the base supporting the vessel body, the first end portion and the second end portion.

34. The vessel of claim 33, wherein the base includes wheels.

35. The vessel of claim 33, wherein the base includes lift tine receiving pockets.

36. The vessel of claim 34, wherein the base includes lift tine receiving pockets.

37. The vessel of claim 33, wherein the base includes a vessel support with at least one access opening, and wherein the second end portion is removably held by the vessel support.

38. The vessel of claim 37, wherein the vessel support comprises a flange, and wherein the second end portion flange is supported by the vessel support flange.

39. The vessel of claim 38, wherein the vessel support flange is releasably connected to the second end portion flange.

40. The vessel of claim 38, wherein the second end portion includes an annular flange, wherein the vessel body comprises at least one annular flange, and wherein the second end portion annular flange connects to the vessel body annular flange, including connectors that connect the second end portion annular flange to the vessel body annular flange, wherein the connectors comprise annular rings, wherein an annular ring is disposed on each side of the connecting flanges, wherein the vessel support supports the annular ring disposed on the second end portion annular flange.

41. The vessel of claim 38, wherein the first end portion includes an annular flange, wherein the second end portion includes an annular flange, wherein the vessel body comprises a pair of annular flanges disposed at each end thereof; wherein the first end portion annular flange connects to one of the vessel body annular flanges, wherein the second end portion annular flange connects to the other of the vessel body annular flanges; including connectors that connect the first end portion annular flange to one of the vessel body annular flanges and connect the second end portion annular flange to the other of the vessel body annular flanges, wherein the connectors comprise annular rings, wherein an annular ring is disposed on each side of the respective connecting flanges, wherein at least one of the annular rings is disposed on a side of the second end portion annular flange, wherein the vessel support supports the annular ring disposed on the second end portion annular flange.

42. The vessel of claim 33, wherein the base includes a vessel support, wherein the vessel support has a flange, wherein the vessel body includes at least one annular flange at at least one end thereof, and wherein the second end portion includes at least one annular flange, and wherein the vessel support flange connects with the second end portion annular flange and the vessel body annular flange.

43. The vessel of claim 33, wherein the base comprises a platform having a vessel support, the vessel support holding the second end portion, the base further comprising a vertical support, and wherein the vertical support includes one or more straps that support one or more of the vessel body and first end portion.

44. The vessel of claim 43, wherein the vertical support comprises at least one vertical post that is connected to the base platform, and wherein the one or more straps are secured to the vertical post and are adjustable.

45. A system for filtration of water and / or wastewater comprising:a) a plurality of the vessels set out in claim 1 ;b) wherein the inlet / outlet of the first end portion comprises an inlet of the vessel, and wherein the inlet / outlet of the second end portion comprises an outlet of the vessel;c) an outflow conduit connected to the outlet of each of said vessels;d) an inflow conduit connected to the inlet of each of said vessels;e) a regulatable valve provided at each of the inlet and outlet of the vessel;the system comprising one or more treatment trains formed from the plurality of the vessels, wherein said one or more treatment trains includes at least two or more vessels of the plurality of the vessels wherein at least one of the two or more vessels comprises a first vessel of the treatment train and wherein at least one other of the two or more vessels comprises a last vessel of the treatment train;wherein the vessels of the one or more treatment trains are serially connected in fluid communication, each of said vessels in a treatment train having an inlet and an outlet, and wherein the outlet of a first vessel in the treatment train is in fluid communication with the inlet of another vessel of the treatment train;wherein the first vessel of the treatment train has an inlet that is connected to an input line providing fluid for treatment, and wherein the last vessel of the treatment train outputs its output to an output line.

46. The system of claim 45, further comprising an enclosure, the enclosure having at least one wall and an enclosure space, and at least one opening providing access to the enclosure space, wherein the plurality of vessels are situated within the enclosure space.

47. The system of claim 46, wherein the plurality of vessels are admittable into and removable out of the enclosure space via the at least one enclosure opening.

48. The system of claim 46, wherein the plurality of vessels and supporting base are admittable into and removable out of the enclosure space via the at least one enclosure opening.

49. The system of claim 48, wherein a closure panel is provided to removably cover the enclosure opening.

50. The system of claim 49, wherein a plurality of enclosure openings are provided, and a plurality of closure panels are provided to removably cover the enclosure openings.

51. A base for supporting a vessel, comprising:a) a platform; andb) a vessel support provided on the platform, the vessel support having a space therein.

52. The base of claim 51 , wherein the vessel support is formed by a wall connected to the platform, the wall including an opening therein, the wall surrounding the vessel space, and the opening communicating with the vessel space.

53. The base of claim 52, wherein the vessel support has a flange.

54. The base of claim 53, wherein the flange includes a connection mechanism configured to connect to the vessel that the stand supports.

55. The base of claim 54, wherein the vessel support further comprises a vertical support, and wherein the vertical support includes one or more adjustable straps disposed along the vertical support.

56. The base of claim 54, wherein the flange includes a plurality of apertures therein.

57. The base of claim 56, wherein the flange has an upper supporting surface and includes recesses disposed in the upper supporting surface.

58. The base of claim 51, further including wheels or casters connected to the platform.

59. The vessel of claim 24, including a support, the support comprises a plurality of rods, wherein each rod extends through the second end portion annular flange and one of the vessel body annular flanges, and connects the second end portion annular flange and the one of the vessel body annular flanges together.

60. The vessel of claim 59, wherein the support supports the vessel assembly at a raised height above a surface.

61. The vessel of claim 1, wherein the first end portion and second end portion are hemi-spherical.

62. The vessel of claim 1, wherein the first end portion and second end portion are elliptical.

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