Operating continuous settling

Wet classification is performed by filtration, settling, centrifugation, Sind hydrocyclones. When operated in conjunction with grinding equipment, the wet classification equipment must operate continuously and give a pumpable fluid. This is often accomplished in practice with hydrocyclones because the other methods are unsuitable (e.g., settlers and centrifuges are used for dilute suspensions, filters and screens produce a nonpumpable cake.)... 

Particle sedimentation techniques can involve the use of a screen if the particle size is relatively large. For smaller particles, the particles in the slurry can settle naturally due to the gravity in large tanks. For continuous settling operations, a... 

Sedimentation equipment can be divided into batch-operated settling tanks and continuously operated thickeners or clarifiers. The operation of the former is simple. Whereas use has diminished, these are employed when small quantities of Hquids are to be treated, for example in the cleaning and reclamation of lubricating oil (see Recycling, oil). Most sedimentation processes are operated in continuous units. 

Design and operation of recirculation systems can be compHcated. Problems are avoided by using a sludge-blanket clarifier, in which feed enters below a blanket of accumulated and flocculated soflds which become fluidized in the zone-settling regime by the upflowing feed. Feed soflds are trapped in the blanket. The soflds content of the blanket continuously increases and part must be bled off in order to maintain the mass balance. 

In principle, at least, any mixer may be coupled with any settler to provide the complete stage. There are several combinations which are especially popufar. Continuously operated devices usually, but not always, place the mixing and settling functions in separate vessels. Batch-operated devices may use the same vessel alternately for the separate functions. 

The primary function of a continuous thickener is to concentrate sus-penaed solids by gravity settling so that a steady-state material balance is achieved, solids being withdrawn continuously in the underflow at the rate they are supphed in the feed. Normally, an inventory of pulp is maintained in order to achieve the desired concentration. This volume will vary somewhat as operating conditions change on occasion, this inventoiy can be used for storage of sohds when reed and underflow rates are reduced or temporarily suspended. 

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