The filter is filled with water to 6” above the underdrain after the underdrain’s structural integrity is verified. The Underdrain Flow Distribution Test provides a straight-forward visual test for proper backwash distribution. At first, the air scour-only pattern is observed. This often reveals the deficiencies of poor-distribution underdrains and if the underdrain was installed incorrectly. The water surface must present a very uniform turbulent appearance without dead zones or boils.
One may easily see the distribution difference between nozzles on 6″-centers each way versus 8”‑centers. They may also see relatively poor air scour distribution of folded sheet metal and wedgewire screen lateral systems that are 12” apart. If the underdrain is designed such that the filter can’t properly clean itself, solids will not be properly removed during air scour and backwash. The next filtration cycle will be compromised with shorter filter runs, lower UFRV, and other operating issues as a result.