Ion Exchange Nozzle

A wedge wire nozzle filter, also known as a Johnson screen nozzle or vee wire filter nozzle, is a stainless steel filtration device commonly installed at the base of pressure vessels, sand filters, activated carbon filters, and ion exchange columns.

The nozzle is constructed from V-shaped (wedge) wires that are precisely wrapped and welded around support rods. This structure creates a slotted screen surface with uniform openings that allow water to flow freely while retaining filter media or resins inside the vessel.

Structure of a Wedge Wire Ion Exchange Nozzle

Key Design Features

Cylindrical or conical shape

Precision slot openings (0.2 - 0.5mm standard)

Threaded or flanged connections for installation

Customizable length and diameter

Why Use Wedge Wire Nozzle Filters in Ion Exchange Systems?

Ion exchange is a core process in water purification, softening, and wastewater treatment. Within these systems, the nozzle filter serves several critical functions:

• Prevents Resin Loss - The ion exchange resin nozzle ensures fine resin beads remain inside the vessel while treated water flows out.

• Supports Backwashing - Designed with precision slots, wedge wire nozzles allow efficient backwash cycles without clogging.

• Ensures Even Flow Distribution - Installed in groups, nozzles help maintain uniform flow across the filter bed, improving process efficiency.

• Durability in Harsh Conditions - Made from stainless steel 304, 316L, 904L, or duplex stainless steel, wedge wire nozzles resist corrosion in aggressive wastewater and chemical environments.

Applications in Wastewater Treatment

Wedge wire nozzle filters are versatile, serving multiple roles across municipal, industrial, and commercial sectors:

• Ion Exchange Vessels

Prevents resin loss in water softening, demineralization, and deionization systems.

• Sand and Multimedia Filters

Ensures filter media remains inside during operation and backwashing.

• Activated Carbon Filters

Retains carbon granules, preventing them from escaping into downstream pipelines.

• Desalination Plants

Handles high salinity conditions with stainless steel nozzles.

• Power Plants and Refineries

Used in cooling water systems and process wastewater treatment.

• Food & Beverage Processing

Meets hygiene and filtration standards for potable water and process streams.

Advantages of Wedge Wire Nozzles Over Other Filters

Compared to plastic nozzles or perforated metal filters, stainless steel wedge wire nozzles offer:

• Non-Clogging, V-shaped wire profile prevents particle bridging.

• Longer service life under continuous operation.

• Resistance to deformation under pressure.

• Easy cleaning and low maintenance.

• Customization for different vessel designs and flow rates.

Integration with Vessel Internals

Nozzles are often part of larger underdrain systems in water treatment vessels.

Common Configurations

• Single Nozzle Installation - For small vessels.

• Hub and Lateral Systems - Central hub with radial arms equipped with nozzles.

• Header-Lateral Systems - Header pipe distributing flow through laterals with nozzles.