Numerical modelling of sedimentation processes

This paper considers the well-documented theory for the design of sedimentation tanks. The difference in this treatment is that a numerical model is used to do the necessary calculations for the limiting flux and the equations to do this are put in a dimensionless format. The model for a cylindrical settler is extended to the case of a conical settling geometry. It is shown that the conical settler can handle a wider range of solids loading. Finally, calculations are reported to estimate the characteristics of batch settling experiments for conical settlers and the results are compared with experimental data. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.