Olot - Water filter ASTRALPOOL - Free user manual and instructions

Product type	Sand filter for swimming pool
Brand	AstralPool
Model	Olot
Body material	Fiberglass reinforced polyester
Interior material	PVC and PP (non-corrodible)
Maximum operating temperature	50°C
Collection system	Collector arms or strainer plates (depending on model)
Manual air purge	Yes, on the top
Manual water drain	Yes, on the bottom
Pressure gauges	Set of pressure gauges (inlet and outlet)
Recommended filtration speed	Max 40 m³/h/m²
Recommended washing speed	40-50 m³/h/m² (water); 60 m³/h/m² (air, for strainers)
Valve	Set of 4 or 5 valves
Functions	Filtration, washing, rinsing, draining, shutdown
Maintenance	Periodic washing based on differential pressure (0.8-1 kg/cm²)
Safety	Stop pump before operating valves; do not exceed maximum pressure
Installation	Horizontal base, below pool water level
Accessories included	Pressure gauges, documentation, warranty, test certificate

Frequently Asked Questions - Olot ASTRALPOOL

How to install the Olot filter?

Place the filter on a perfectly horizontal base and below the pool water level. Connect the pipes without forcing, use gaskets for sealing. Do not overtighten the fittings. Before adding the sand, perform a pressure test to check the installation's tightness.

How to start the filter for the first time?

Remove the cover, fill the filter with water halfway. First, introduce a layer of support sand (size larger than the collector groove) until covering the collectors (about 10 cm). Then add the filter sand up to the maximum height (25% of minimum distance between sand and diffusers). Carefully clean the gasket and cover before closing. Perform a backwash before filtration.

When and how to perform a filter wash?

Perform a wash when the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet gauges reaches 0.8-1 kg/cm². For a water wash, set the valves to wash position (pump off), then start the pump. Wash for about 7 minutes at a speed of 40-50 m³/h/m². Finish with a rinse of 3 minutes.

What is the pressure difference indicating that a wash is necessary?

Normally, the inlet pressure is 0.8-1 kg/cm² and the outlet pressure is 0.4-0.6 kg/cm² on a clean filter. When the difference between the two exceeds 0.5-1 kg/cm² (e.g., inlet 1.4 kg/cm² and outlet 0.3 kg/cm²), a wash is necessary.

How to perform an air and water wash?

This process is reserved for filters with strainers or double collectors. It consists of three phases: first air injection at about 60 m³/h/m², then water injection at about 50 m³/h/m², and finally simultaneous air and water injection at a speed below 50 m³/h/m². Never use a compressor.

What to do if sand comes out of the filter during washing?

This may be due to an excessively high washing flow rate. Reduce the flow rate. Also check that the collectors are not damaged. If the problem persists, empty the sand and inspect the collectors.

How to drain the sand from the filter?

Drain the water from the filter, remove the cover of the sand drain opening (bottom part). Let the sand flow out. To facilitate, a person can enter from the top to push the sand towards the drain. Once empty, follow the startup procedure to refill.

How to maintain the filter in winter?

If the pool is no longer used in winter, it is advisable to empty the filter of water to prevent frost damage. Clean the exterior with pressurized water. Check the condition of seals and components.

What to do in case of a leak on the cover or fittings?

First check the tightening of the screws. If the leak persists, contact technical service. Do not overtighten to avoid breaking plastic parts. Make sure the gasket is correctly positioned.

What are the main components of the Olot filter?

Components include: cover, manual air purge, set of pressure gauges, sight glass (optional), polyester body, inlet and outlet connections, collector system (arms or strainers), base, water drain, sand discharge opening, filter media (sand), diffuser, and lifting rings.

USER MANUAL Olot ASTRALPOOL

IMPORTANT: The instruction manual that you have in your hands contains fundamental information on the necessary security measures which need to be adhered to when installing and commissioning the filter. It is therefore essential that both the installation engineer and the end user read these instructions before proceeding any further.

"In order to archive optimum performance from your filter, please see the following instructions".

1. CHECK THE PACKAGING

Check that the filter and all its components are in good condition after transportation.

There is a box with the filter, which contains pressure gauges, along with other accessories. There will also be a guarantee and test certificate.

2. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Filters are the most important part of a water filtration system, and their function is to remove suspended solids and clarify the water.

The effect of correct filtration will influence the results of disinfectant process.

The principle of filtration involves retaining the suspended particles that the water tries to carry with it through the filter sand bed.

The water treatment process involves a range of equipment besides filters, such as; pumps, chemical dosing, pool shell fittings, which ensure the correct suction and return of water, which with the rest of the equipment ensures the correct circulation and maintenance of the water quality.

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The filtration quality may depend on different factors: Design of the filter, type of collector used - collectors or nozzles, media bed depth, specifications and density of the filtering material etc. At the same time the filtration velocity is a determining factor when seeking good quality filtration and a velocity of no more than 40m / h is recommended.

Bobbin filters are manufactured from polyester resin and glass fibre materials, which have excellent anticorrosive properties. The interior includes a collector and diffuser made from PVC and PP plastic. They are also resistant to salt water and can operate up to a maximum temperature of 50^ .

The special layer of isophthalic resin on the interior of the filter gives it maximum durability against wear and tear and abrasion, also enabling it to be used with potable water. Filters may also be manufactured on request with a vinylester lining, which is resistant to most chemicals including ozone.

3. IDENTIFICATION OF COMPONENTS

A) Filters with laterals (FIG.1)

1. Lid for addition of media, and inspection.
2. Air relief valve
3. Pressure gauge
4. Sight glass (optional, on request)
5. Reinforced polyester and fibre glass tank
6. Dirty water inlet
7. Clean water outlet
8. Water collected via laterals
9. Reinforced polyester and fibre glass base
10. Manual water drainage
11. Sand discharge cap
12. Side man hole (optional, on request)
    13 Filtration media
13. Water diffuser system
14. Eye bolt to transport the filter (only for use when the filter is empty)

B) Filters with nozzle plates (FIG.2)

1. Lid for addition of media, and inspection.
2. Air relief valve
3. Pressure gauge
4. Sight glass (optional, on request)
5. Reinforced polyester and fibre glass tank
6. Dirty water inlet
7. Clean water outlet
8. Water collected via nozzle plate
9. Reinforced polyester and fibre glass base
10. Manual water drainage
11. Air inlet connection for backwash
12. Side man hole and sand discharge
13. Filtration media
14. Water diffuser system
15. Eye bolt to transport the filter (only for use when filter is empty)

4. INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS

In order to achieve successful installation it is important to consider the following points:
- Choose a pump suitable for the required flow at 10m head (water).
In order to backwash the filter, the system of pumps and filters must combine to obtain the necessary flow, which can be from 40 - 50m/h lateral models, and up to 60 m/h for nozzle plate models.
To scour the filter with air (nozzle plate models or models with double laterals) it will use one or more air blower or capable of supplying air at a velocity of 60m / h 300 mbar. Never use a compressor because damage could occur due to excessive pressure.
It is advised to install the filters below the level of, and as close to the pool as possible.
The plant room where the filters are installed should be well ventilated and have the necessary drainage channels available to allow escape of water, should a pipe, filter or pump leak in the case of an accident, preventing damage to any equipment. If it is not possible to install such drainage measures then an alternative automated system (e.g. submersible pumps) should be installed for water removal.

5. INSTALLATION

Filters are delivered packaged and palleted, due to their weight and volume. This can make them difficult to manoeuvre around the building site and install so it is recommended that they be transported by fork lift, crane etc.

Filters are made of plastic, and although they are designed to be resist to internal pressure, they can be susceptible to external damage. It is important to ensure that the filter does not receive any external knocks during installation or operation that could damage the base, the tank or any connections.

Always use suitable plastic connections and make ensure they are fitted with suitable supports and are not forced, or under stress.

The media must only be loaded once the filter is situated in its final position, following the instructions for "Commissioning".

Filters like other items of plant, will need regular checks, so it is essential to leave a suitable working clearance above and around the filter. (FIG. 3)

Correct installation of the filters:

• Place the filters in their designated position, and ensure that they are stable and the floor is perfectly flat. (FIG. 4)
• Assemble the batteries on the filters, ensuring they are not stressed. Remember that the water tightness of the unions is achieved with seals and gaskets, so do not over tighten the bolts. Do not use Teflon (PTFE) tape.
  Install adequate battery/pipe supports and adjust their height accordingly.
• Plumb the batteries to the pump discharge pipes, the return pipes to the pool and to the waste drain.

5.1. INSTALLATION OF THE PRESSURE GAUGES

Once you have installed the pressure gauge panel on the flange of the filter connection, note the flexible plastic and transparent pipes that must be connected between the pressure gauges and the 1/4 threaded holes in the battery tees, as the illustration shows (FIG 5).

The pressure gauge panel clearly identifies the pressure gauge that controls the inlet and outlet pressures. The pressure gauges indicate when backwash of the filter is necessary. For example, in a clean filter the entrance pressure should be between 0.8 and 1kg / cm^2 and the exit pressure should be between 0.4 and 0.6kg / cm^2

When the difference between the pressure in the inlet pressure gauge and that in the outlet pressure gauge is 1kg / cm^2 or higher, then it is time to backwash the filter.

BATTERY ASSEMBLY:

FIG.3

FIG.4

FIG.5

5.2. INSTALLATION OF THE BATTERY SUPPORT.

Once the battery has been installed it is recommended to set up special supports in order to hold the battery's weight as well as the weight of the water that flows through it.

It is recommended to install adjustable height supports:

To install them it is first necessary to adjust the height of the clamps according to the battery and then fix the support to the floor with the expanding bolt provided.

6. STARTING UP

• Remove the lid of the filter trying not to damage the joints or the surrounding area around the lid.
  Check that all the filter components are in good condition and ensure that the laterals or nozzle plate are secure, as they may have come loose or been damaged in transit.
• Fill the filter approximately half full of water.
• Introduce the sand, ensuring you first pour in a support layer, enough to cover the groove of the laterals or nozzle plate, covering them by approx. 10cm. This should be done very carefully so as not to damage any internal components. Whilst filling the filter with sand ensure that you distribute the sand evenly over the whole surface area.
• Introduce the desired sand size, up to the maximum filtration height limit.
  Carefully clean the filter neck, the seal and the lid before proceeding with the assembly. It is also advised to grease the screws before putting in the nuts, and once the lid assembly is complete, put the flanges (supplied with the filter) to the screws.
• Close the filter placing the seal in its correct position.
• Once the filter is full and properly closed, it is necessary to backwash the filter. To do this follow the instructions in the section labelled 'backwash'.

7. NORMAL WORKING CYCLE. (FIG.6)

FIG.6

7.1 FILTRATION (FIG.7)

With the pump stopped set the valves to the position labelled filtration.

During the filter's normal operation, it is recommended to periodically check the entrance and exit pressure gauges and carry out a backwash when the difference in pressure is equal to or more than 0.8 - 1kg / cm^2

In industrial applications the pressure difference should not exceed 0.6- 0.8kg / cm^2

Normally when referring to filtration for pools the entrance pressure gauge shows a pressure of 0.8-1kg / cm^2 and the exit pressure gauge 0.4 - 0.6kg / cm^2 (standard pressure when the filter is clean).

As the filter gets dirty during its use, the entrance pressure gauge experiences an increase in pressure at the same time as the exit pressure gauge shows a fall in working pressure.

EXAMPLE

Entrance pressure gauge 1.4 kg/cm

Exit pressure gauge 0.3 kg/cm

Pressure difference 1.1 kg/cm

In this case it is necessary to backwash the filter.

7.2 BACKWASH (FIG.8)

The bed of sand inside the filter forms thousands of channels through which the water flows and logically they collect impurities and solid deposits that the water brings with it to the filter. In time these deposits block the channels and it is periodically necessary to clean the filter to leave it in optimum working condition and drain the dirt that had collected.

It is recommended to backwash with water for 7 minutes at a speed of 40 - 50m^3 /h / m^2

It is advised to place a sight glass in the drainage pipework so that during the backwash you can see the dirt leaving the filter and in this way determine the duration of the backwash needed.

We recommend that backwash does not exceed 50m^3 /h / m^2 to avoid any sand being expelled into the drainage system.

To carry out a backwash cycle, ALWAYS WITH THE PUMP SWITCHED OFF, set the valves to the backwash position indicated on the template.

FIG.7

FIG.8

7.2.1. BACKWASH WITH AIR AND WATER (ONLY FOR FILTERS WITH NOZZLE PLATES OR DOUBLE LATERALS)

Air is used to dislodge and agitate the sand bed. This makes the backwash process more efficient in less time and saves a substantial amount of water.

This process is carried out in three phases:

• Inject air at a speed of approx. 60m / h
• Inject water at a speed of approx. 50m / h
• Inject water and air at a speed of no more than approx. 50m / h

7.3 RINSING (FIG.9)

This operation is recommended straight after the backwash, in order to expel any remaining deposits that had penetrated the collectors during the backwash cycle.

This operation should last approx. 3 minutes and prevents cloudy water returning to the pool.

To carry out this operation set the valves to the rinse position (ALWAYS WITH THE PUMP SWITCHED OFF) and immediately afterwards reset the valves to the filter setting.

The rinse position can only be applied if the battery has 5 valves.

7.4 DRAIN (FIG.10)

When it is necessary to empty the pool and in the case of not having the drainage connected directly to the mains sewer system, you can empty it using the filter pump by positioning the valves to the 'drain' section on the template.

To do this and before commencing, the skimmer, overflow channel and pool cleaner valves must be closed.

FIG.9

FIG.10

7.5.CLOSED (FIG.11)

As the name indicates all the battery valves are closed. This operation is used when cleaning or maintenance work is carried out on the filter or pre-filter, etc.

8. VALVE BATTERIES. POSITION OF THEM IN EACH OPERATION

8.1. BATTERIES WITH 4 VALVES (FIG.12)

Template of operations for batteries with 4 valves:

POSITION	1	2	3	4
Filtration	Closed Opened	Opened Closed
BACKWASH	Opened Closed	Closed Opened
DRAIN	Opened Opened	Closed Closed
CLOSED	Closed Closed	Closed Closed

8.2. BATTERIES WITH 5 VALVES (FIG.13)

Template of operations for batteries with 4 valves:

POSITION 1	2	3	4	5
Filtration	Closed	Opened	Opened	Closed	Closed
BACKWASH	Opened	Closed	Closed	Opened	Closed
RINSING	Closed	Opened	Closed	Closed	Opened
DRAIN	Opened	Opened	Closed	Closed	Closed
CLOSED	Closed	Closed	Closed	Closed	Closed

FIG.11

FIG.12

FIG.13

NOTE: To carry out any operation indicated on the template, the pump must be OFF.

9. DRAINING THE SAND FROM THE FILTER

When you need to drain the sand, due to an accident or because you want to change the sand due to wear and tear, follow the following steps:

• Drain the water from the filter
• Remove the sand purge lid
• While the sand is draining, remove it from around the purge lid to stop it blocking
• One person needs to get inside the filter to aid the sand towards the purge opening
  To fill the filter with sand again, follow the instructions for 'Starting Up'

Use the time the filter is without sand to check all the internal components, most importantly the laterals and replace any that are damaged.

10. OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS

The interor assembly, the number of laterals and diffusers, varies depending on the size and type of filter. The diffusers function is to distribute the water in the most even way possible over the filtration bed. The laterals function is to collect the water once filtrated and channel it to the exit of the filter.

Each filter is equipped with a manual air drain cock in the upper part of the filter. Likewise, all filters have a manual water drain cock in the lower part of the filter that can be connected directly to the sewer system.

Once the swimming pool installation is complete, it is recommended to give the filter a good clean with pressurised water in order to clean all dust and dirt gained during construction or installation.

Remember that your installation can be totally automated, in which case an Astral technician can recommend the most appropriate installation for your needs.

If the installation is likely to be left for a long period of time without being used, it is advisable to drain the filter of water.

If the filter lives outdoors it is advisable to paint it with an appropriate paint every 2 years.

11. MAINTENANCE

A regular and thorough clean is necessary for the maintenance of your pool, in the long term this will save time, the equipment will last longer and the water will be of a better quality.

For the correct maintenance of the filtration equipment (pump, valves, etc.) follow the manufacturers instructions.

Periodically inspect the filter media and all the filter components (diffusers, laterals, air and water drain cocks, pipes, seals etc.) including the polyester tank, replacing or repairing any damaged parts.

Periodically clean the filter with pressurised water to remove dust accumulated over time. Do not use solvents that could damage the plastic parts or the sight glass.

If you close the pool in winter adequately drain the equipment to prevent any damage from ice.

12. TABLE OF LOAD LOSS FROM VALVE BATTERY AND SAND FILTERS

The maximum operating temperature is 50^

13. SAFETY WARNINGS

Switch off the pump before operating any valve.

Do not connect the filter direct to the mains drinking water as the pressure can rise and exceed the maximum authorised working pressure for the filter.

Remember that it is very important to position the battery valve supports to prevent any filter connections from breaking.

The filters are designed to be highly resistant to internal pressure, but at the same time they are very susceptible to exterior knocks.

If the installation has more than one filter installed on the same battery there should be a valve on each of the connections to allow the filter to be completely isolated.

Under no circumstances should you exceed the maximum working pressure, indicated on the filter characteristics plate.

1. POSSIBLE FAULTS

PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION
No filtered water flowing	The filter is dirty Start backwash
	The collecting basket is covered Clean the collecting basket
You observe characters in the sand bed	Formation of preferential channels, lack of backwash or broken collector	Start a backwash Drain the sand and check if the collector is defective. Replace the sand
Pressure gauge oscillates violently	The pump has air in it	Check the whole installation and eliminate possible leaks
	Suction half closed Check the suction valves are completely open
Sand is entering the pool from the filter	There is something broken in the collector system	Repair the collector system
Sand is escaping to the drain during backwash	Excessive water flow during backwash	Reduce the flow rate during backwash
Leaks in the connections or lids Loose screws		Tighten the screws, being careful not to break any plastic pieces. If the problem is not resolved, phone technical support

Cada filtered is a part of the filter.

7.5 CHIUSURA (FIG.11)

7. NORMALNY CYKL PRACY (RYS. 6)

RYS.6

7.1 FILTROWANIE (RYS. 7)