What is a mudball?

A mudball refers to an accumulation of media grains and suspended matter. In the context of water treatment, particularly in biological filtration processes, a mudball is formed when fine particles, organic matter, and other particulates clump together around filter media. This aggregation can impact the efficiency of filtration systems by creating a sort of barrier that might lead to decreased water flow through the filter.

Understanding the concept of mudballs is important for operators as they can affect treatment performance. Regular monitoring and maintenance of filtration systems can help prevent the formation of mudballs, ensuring optimal operation and water quality.