What Exactly Are Polyphosphate Antiscalant Balls and How Are They Used in the Water Purification Field?

Yes, food-grade polyphosphates are widely used in drinking water systems and are considered safe. They are typically added at concentrations between 1–5 mg/L. Phosphates are essential minerals for human health. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has established a Maximum Tolerable Daily Intake (MTDI) for phosphates at 70 mg per kg of body weight. ​

 

Products certified by organizations like NSF and FDA, such as those from KAIDEFEI, have met stringent safety standards. For instance, KAIDEFEI's polyphosphate scale inhibitors and copper-zinc alloy filter media are certified under NSF/ANSI 42 for aesthetic effects in drinking water. ​

When used correctly and replaced regularly, these filters pose no significant health or environmental risks.

Polyphosphate filter cartridges are typically installed in the main water inlet line as part of a pre-filtration system. They can be used with standard big blue filter housings (such as 4.5"x10" or 4.5"x20"). For optimal scale prevention, it's recommended to install them close to the point-of-use appliances like coffee machines, water heaters, or dishwashers. Additionally, they can also be used in POU (Point of Use) systems by placing them inside the core of a sediment filter cartridge.

Polyphosphate filter cartridges are particularly suitable for devices with heating elements, such as:

• Coffee machines

• Water boilers

• Water heaters

• Steam ovens

• Dishwashers

• Ice makers

These filters effectively prevent scale buildup on pipes and heating surfaces, thereby extending the lifespan of the equipment

You can determine the filter's status by:

1. Observing whether scale buildup starts to appear on the equipment (a simple method is to check if white residues form when heating filtered water).

2. Checking if the polyphosphate in the filter has been significantly depleted.

3. Noting if the recommended usage period has been reached (depending on water quality and flow rate).

 

If any of these situations occur, it is recommended to replace the filter in a timely manner.

For standard polyphosphate filters, the typical usage period is 3-6 months. However, Kaidefei polyphosphate scale inhibitor balls have a better stability, and based on tested performance, they can last 1-2 years with proper usage and reasonable amounts.

Polyphosphate filters are generally maintenance-free and should not be opened for cleaning. Instead, replace the entire filter cartridge at the end of its service life. If sediment accumulates in the filter housing, clean the housing before installing a new cartridge.​

Kaidefei polyphosphate raw material are primarily used in combination with activated carbon filters or PP cotton pre-filters  to achieve a more comprehensive water treatment and protection effect.