Saostussäiliö

A saostussäiliö, also known as a settling tank or sedimentation tank, is a piece of equipment used in various industrial and environmental processes to separate suspended solids from a liquid. The principle behind its operation is gravity. The liquid, carrying the suspended particles, enters the tank at a relatively slow flow rate. This reduced velocity allows the denser solid particles to settle to the bottom of the tank over time.

These settled solids, often referred to as sludge or sediment, can then be periodically removed from the tank. The clarified liquid, with the majority of the suspended solids removed, exits from the top of the tank. Saostussäiliö are commonly found in wastewater treatment plants, where they are used to remove organic and inorganic matter from sewage. They are also employed in industries such as mining, paper manufacturing, and food processing to clarify process water or remove byproducts.

The design of a saostussäiliö can vary, but typically includes an inlet for the liquid, an outlet for the clarified liquid, and a mechanism for sludge removal. Some tanks are rectangular, while others are circular. The efficiency of a saostussäiliö depends on factors like the flow rate, the size and density of the suspended particles, and the residence time of the liquid within the tank. Regular maintenance and sludge removal are crucial for optimal performance.