Sedimenter replaces filters, centrifuges and cyclones
Sedimenter replaces filters, centrifuges and cyclones
A new sedimentor from Fluid Solutions is claimed to provide the economic alternative to conventional filters, centrifuges and cyclones for the automatic separation of solids and entrained liquid from contaminated process fluids. Solid and liquid waste is separated and containerised for ease of disposal to comply with the most stringent environmental regulations.
Machine shop applications would include the removal of carbide grinding dust from recirculating coolants or the cleaning of electrolyte in EDM machines. Honing, where the need for a pre-coal filter can be eliminated, together with plasma cutting fluids and washing or degreasing plants for castings can also be successfully handled. However, the sedimentor potentially has much wider fields of application in a number of process industries, including the water wash of furnace air prior to atmospheric discharge.
Officially titled a microparticle separation unit, the sedimentor uses a cleaning cassette lightly packed with a great number of small diameter hydrodynamic tubes. When operating,these tubes (typically 3-5mm bore only) are positioned horizontally and provide an effective high capacity separation area. This combines the dual advantages of a very short settlement distance within the individual tubes, with a large settlement or collection area of approximately 150 sq. metres for the separated solids.
Figure 1 Tilting cassette mechanism of the latest sedimentor from Fluid Solutions which meets stringent waste disposal regulations
Contaminated fluid is passed through the sedimentor under laminar flow conditions which is designed to accommodate particle settlement speeds as low as 5-10mm per hour. This provides for automatic continuous separation at realistic flow rates, to suit individual fluid contaminant loadings.
The cleaning cassette is rotated vertically at regular intervals, based upon a timing cycle determined by the settlement rates of the fluid load. Collected solids are flushed under gravity into a collection drum via a discharge hopper, and this process can be helped if required by a vibratory mechanism. The cassette is then returned to the operating or horizontal position after a pre-determined timing cycle.
A very high solids capacity is enhanced by the provision of a pre-settlement chamber for the collection of coarse particles with separate heavy fluid removal. This is combined with a continuous light liquid (e.g. entrained oil droplets) discharge,which supplements the separate solids removal as part of a highly efficient and effective three phase separation process.
Provision is also made for the automatic recycling of any excess liquid extracted during the three phase process to prevent loss of expensive process fluids. Collected sediment has a high solids content for maximum economy of disposal, but provision can also be made for additional hot air drying of collected waste if required prior to discharge.
The sedimentor is said to be both quiet and economical to operate. It requires a 3ph 415V supply for the pump units, together with a compressed air connection for operation of the cassette tilling mechanism. All wetted parts are stainless steel, compatible for use in most process environments.
Details from Fluid Solutions, Birch House, 6 Acresfield Avenue, Audenshaw, Manchester M34 5SY. Tel:0161 370 6293; Fax: 0161 370 6293.
