Activated carbon is a filtration medium consisting of various types of organic matter. Per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), thanks to its large surface area, activated carbon can attract and trap numerous contaminants in water, air, and more. It may also be recyclable in some instances, benefiting both your wallet and the environment.
Activated carbon comes in several forms. Activated carbon pellets and granular activated carbon are two common examples. The following overview will help you better understand key differences between the two.
The Basic Differences Between Granular Activated Carbon and Activated Carbon Pellets
Granular activated carbon is activated carbon that, as the name suggests, has been ground down into a fine powder-like substance. Activated carbon pellets are small pellets that vary in size.
Neither type of activated carbon product is universally better than the other. Consult with suppliers or check product information to learn what types of uses each form of activated carbon is ideal for.
Factors to consider when choosing between the two include:
Pressure Drop
Water pressure will drop during the filtration process. As water moves through a filtration medium, its flow naturally slows down.
The degree to which this occurs can depend on your chosen filtration medium. Granular activated carbon has a large surface area and can trap a relatively large volume of contaminants.
Activated carbon pellets may be less effective at filtering out all contaminants in water. However, they can allow water to flow more easily, resulting in less pressure drop.
Consider having your water tested. Doing so may help you better understand your filtration needs.
Price
The cost of both granular activated carbon and activated carbon pellets can vary. Partially, this is because both products come in several varieties. For example, the size of the activated carbon pellets you purchase can influence the cost. Nevertheless, price is a factor you should account for when deciding which of these two options is best for you.
Filtration Target
Although the best way to determine which uses and applications a particular activated carbon product is suited to is to discuss the matter with a supplier, it’s worth noting that activated carbon pellets may be useful as a means of filtering air, while granular activated carbon is more useful for filtering water.
Processing Capabilities
You may have strict processing requirements for your activated carbon products, depending on your specific needs. A supplier may explain how they’re best able to fulfill your requirements by offering one type of activated carbon product over another.
Choosing Between Granular Activated Carbon and Activated Carbon pellets: The Importance of Asking Questions
Hopefully, this guide has helped you better understand some of the ways granular activated carbon and activated carbon pellets differ. That said, you may still have some questions about both options.
Always feel free to discuss your questions with a supplier. An expert who understands the capabilities of different types of activated carbon can help you choose the ideal product for your goals.
Puragen offers activated carbon in granular, pellet, and powder form.
