What is primarily removed from water using bar screens in reclamation?

Bar screens are utilized in water reclamation processes to remove larger solids from the water. The primary function of bar screens is to act as a first line of defense in the treatment of water, capturing substantial debris such as leaves, sticks, and other large particulate matter before the water undergoes further treatment processes. This is essential because these larger objects can cause damage to pumps and other equipment if not removed, and they can also impede the treatment process by causing blockages.

The design of bar screens typically features vertical bars spaced apart to allow water to flow through while capturing larger solids on their surfaces. This initial filtration helps to ensure the water entering subsequent treatment stages is relatively free of large contaminants, enabling those processes to operate more effectively and efficiently.

In contrast, microbial contaminants, gases, and aqueous nutrients are typically dealt with using different treatment methods, such as biological treatment or chemical processes, rather than being removed by bar screens. Thus, the correct choice reflects the intended purpose and effective operational use of bar screens in water reclamation.