Primary and secondary waste treatment systems are commonly used to remove around 85% to 95% of pollutants from wastewater before the water is sanitized and pumped into local waterways. However, standalone wastewater treatment systems, such as lamella clarifiers, are more adept at efficient solids removal and should be considered if you want to maximize solids recovery.
The Lamella Clarifier
Also known as a plate settler, this type of treatment system utilizes a series of inclined plates to remove particles and solids from liquids. It is these series of plates that make it unique among other water clarifiers. The plates work by serving as a larger settling space for small particulates, and as they are collected the particles settle and eventually accumulate in the hoppers located at the bottom of the clarifier. This sludge can then be drawn out while the clean liquid can be removed via the top over the weir.
The Purpose of a Lamella Clarifier
Clarifiers are used when the wastewater has a large collection of solids that need to be removed. Clarifiers work by utilizing gravity which allows settling of larger particles to occur on the plates while the — now clean — water is allowed to flow freely past. This natural process of settling can be enhanced with the addition of a polyelectrolyte and a coagulant. The polyelectrolyte caused the flocs to combine and bind together, forming chains that are heavy enough to settle easily, while coagulants neutralize charges and conglomerate the solids into micro-floc forms.
Some wastewater can also contain scum that won’t settle to the plates. This means they will have to be collected on the surface via a scum removal arrangement. It is generally recommended that you remove excess oils or grease before filtering the wastewater into the lamella clarifier. While there is an outlet skimmer for catching these oils, it is recommended only in smaller amounts.
Lamella Clarifiers and Wastewater Treatment
In wastewater treatment, the job of the clarifier is to remove solids. This ensures that the particulates are removed before undergoing distillation or purification, as these processes aren’t as adept at removing these elements.
One benefit of lamella clarifiers in waste treatment facilities is that they require minimal upkeep and are easy to maintain due to their lower amount of moving parts. The easiest way to clean these clarifiers is by draining it and removing any excess buildup on the plates and cones. You should also have the pumps and mixer inspected regularly to ensure it’s functioning optimally.
Whether you’re a veteran user of clarifiers, or you’re unfamiliar with them, lamella clarifiers are some of the easiest to understand. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to a distributor or manufacturer to see what they recommend for your business.
