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Suspension

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FReTA

Introduction

The AguaClara Team has been using the tube floc apparatus and FReTA for the study of flocculation. This experimental apparatus has been created based on existing knowledge on flocculation and fluid mechanics; however, the validity of the data collected from this apparatus has never been looked into. In effect, the following questions regarding the scientific basis of the collected data have arisen: how valid is the data from this experimental set-up, and on what verification is the team assuming the workability of the apparatus?

To answer the questions, the Tube Floc Team has chosen to design a small experimental apparatus that will validate the workability of FReTA. The basic idea of this study will be to compare empirical results from a simple set-up to those of the theoretical. By verifying the experimental values to be similar to those of the predicted, already validated values, the accuracy of the values measured by FReTA can be solidified.This experimental apparatus will focus on the measurement of the sedimentation velocities of known particles. The expected sedimentation velocities of these particles will be calculated through known equations of settling velocity.

Materials and Methods

Since this is a validation test, the team desires to acquire very accurate data by creating a simple apparatus with low possibility of error and high efficiency of collecting necessary information. The apparatus will consist of a loop that will be directly connected to the ball valve and effluent turbidimeter. No flocculation will be done; this experiment will solely focus on the accuracy of FReTA's ability to measure correct turbidity values. With the use of Process Controller and MathCad, the retrieved data will be analyzed and compared. The following links show more details on the specific apparatus and methods team has used: