Steady state thickener modelling from the compressive yield stress and hindered settling function

Abstract

An algorithm has been developed to predict steady state thickener operation from fundamental material properties, properly accounting for compression of the suspension network structure within the sediment bed. The material properties include the compressive yield stress, Py(φ), and the hindered settling function, R(φ). Py(φ) reflects the suspension network strength as a function of solids volume fraction φ, while R(φ) is inversely related to the permeability. The required inputs to the model include Py(φ) and R(φ) curve fits, thickener diameter as a function of height, solids density, liquid density and feed solids volume fraction. The model output is either solids throughput or solids flux..