Optimize sludge dewatering processes by means of a new, fast and accurate method

The final process step of effluent treatment is the dewatering of sludge that has been thickened in a sedimentation stage. For dewatering purposes, polymeric flocculants are dosed into the sludge for conditioning. These will agglomerate and flocculate existing sludge particles to enable industrial-scale dewatering in screen presses or centrifuges. Since the disposal of dewatered sludge dry solids and the required polymer additions are the most important cost drivers, industrialists are trying to generate a maximum of sludge solids whilst keeping polymer dosages at a minimum. To create ideal dewatering conditions, polymer overdosage and underdosage must be avoided. In order to achieve this goal a new method with the help of the MütekTM DFR-05 (Drainage Freeness Retention) is introduced which allows:

• Trageted selection of polymeric flocculants
• Polymer savings of at least 10%
• Check sludge dewatering during effluent treatment
• Automated lab measurements giving user-independent results