Frequently Asked Questions
Q Does the process need a pumped feed to operate?
A No. The process can operate with either a pumped or a gravity
fed influent. The nature of the process is such that it operates
as a low energy rotary flow device and hence does not require
a high constant energy like systems such as hydrocyclones.
Q Does the process need a constant flow rate to operate?
A No. The process is very adept at treating a wide range
of flows and is efficient at handling a diurnal flow variation.
During periods of extremely low or no flow the system uses
a sludge scraper to remove sludge which might accumulate on
the vessel base. This would operate the same way as a conventional
primary sedimentation tank.
Q What values can I expect from the sludge dry solids content?
A This will vary on the operational regime of the particular
site and would vary dependant on the frequency and duration
of the desludge cycle. Typical values range from 3% - 5% and
would be similar to that of a conventional PST.
Q What are the main advantages of the process over a conventional
PST?
A One big advantage a Swirl-Flo® would have is footprint.
The land area needed for a Swirl-Flo® would typically
be 25% of that needed by a conventional PST (ie. 75% smaller).
This is provided by combining two settlement processes - gravity
settlement and rotary flow settlement. The process is also
more robust at absorbing shock loads (both flow and suspended
solids) due to the flow regime within the vortex chamber.
Q Are there advantages over other low footprint systems such
as lamella plates?
A Yes, the Swirl-Flo® has been independently tested and
verified as having a greater ability to absorb shock loads
when compared to lamella plate technology (include reference
report from WRC).
Q What performance range can I expect to see from a Swirl-Flo®
Process?
A The performance would depend on the nature and settleability
of the incoming waste stream, typical performance may range
from 40% - 65% removal of suspended solids, this value can
be higher if the majority of the waste stream is settleable.
The amount of BOD removed is related to the solids associated
BOD and can vary considerable from site to site. If chemically
assisted settlement is included the process can provide in
excess of 90% removal of suspended solids, similar BOD removal
can also be achieved, phosphorous removal can also be achieved
precipitation when the use of chemicals are adopted to improve
performance.
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