Experimental investigation of effects of baffle configurations on the performance of a secondary sedimentation tank

Sedimentation tanks are designed for the settling of floated solids in water. These tanks are one of the most important parts of water treatment plants and their performance directly affects the functionality of these plants. One challenging method for increasing the performance of sedimentation tanks is to use baffles. A useful baffle should be installed in a suitable place with a proper height. In this work, an experimental study of particle-laden flow in a rectangular sedimentation tank has been performed and kaolin is used as solid particles. The effects of baffle configurations on the velocity and concentration profiles along the tank were studied. Sedimentation tank performance was directly investigated by measurement of the mean concentration along the tank. In order to determine the best baffle configuration, two positions of single and double-baffle arrangements with various heights were investigated. Results show that the best baffle position and proper baffle height relates to the inlet concentration. In any case, the middle baffle, with suitable height, is efficient and increases sedimentation tank performance.