Gravity separators lamella separator

Inerts are separated from the dissolving solution by gravity in lamella separators the clear solution overflows... 

This is clearly a word to be used with care in any filtration and sedimentation context. It is used in this Handbook only in the general sense when unmodified, so that the term separator means any form of physical separation equipment. The term only has a specific meaning when preceded by a modifier magnetic separator , lamella separator , or, as is mainly the case in this section, gravity separator or sedimenting separator . 

The gravity separator enables a particle to settle out of suspension into a layer of separated solids formed at the bottom of the settling tank. The particle can also be considered to have separated from suspension if it can be encouraged into contact with any continuous surface over which the liquid is flowing. This is the operating principle of the lamella separator, in which a number of continuous surfaces (usually flat... 

Lamella settlers are gravity settlers that use a large number of inclined flat plates, closely packed, so that the distance between the plates is small. The gravitational action makes the cells move in the direction of the lower surface of the individual separating space between two plates. Once settled, the particles slide down in a layer towards the plate periphery and then into the sludge hopper. For the same required sedimentation area, lamella settlers are much more compact than vertical ones. Theoretically, their total sedimentation area is the sum of the horizontally projected areas of all plates. In practice, however, only 50% of this total area is effective [137]. The main problem with inclined settlers is that the cells tend to adhere to the plates. Special coating of the plate surface and vibration of the whole lamella pack may alleviate this problem. 

Wenk, S. E., The Lamella gravity settler theory, design and experience . Paper B2.6, APS Seminar and Expo, System Approach to Separation and Filtration Process Equipment, Chicago, Ilhnois USA, May 3-6, 1993, in Advances in Filtration and Separation Technology, Vol. 7, American Filtration Society, Kingwood, Texas, April, 204-207 (1993)... 

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