Motivation & Objective
The main objective of the Pilot Plant is to test the AguaClara technology in dynamic, high flow conditions similar to those that will be confronted in the plants in Honduras.
Semester Research Goals
There are several priorities that we have for this semester. Before initiating testing of the model, we have some preliminary goals to improve the laboratory setup.
Because of inconclusive data in the past, our initial objective is to test the hydraulics of the flocculation tank itself. We want to eliminate the possibility that leaks or shortcutting in the system is still an issue. A dye test will indicate whether leaking is occurring either at the joints or between the bottom of the tank and the plastic panel at the bottom of the tank. The equipment will be thoroughly cleaned.
It was determined last semester that the port holes connecting the sections of the tank together should be bigger to eliminate floc break-up.
A flow meter will be installed in the inlet pipe so that we can be sure of the flow rate over time and also accurately test variable flow rates.
Another goal for the semester is to install a sedimentation tank in collaboration with other AguaClara team members. This set-up will simulate more closely the AguaClara plants that are built in Honduras.
In addition to these initial improvements and testing of the set-up, we also have research goals related to the tapered flocculation model. Our biggest goal is to establish a reliable experimental testing procedure. This method should include being able to visually analyze and classify, via a standardized reference, the flocculation in the tank.
Currently, sampling takes place in three adjustable locations within the tank. Before analysis in the turbidity meter, the water enters a long glass tube which is meant to act as a "miniature sedimentation tank". However, previous testing has indicated that a significant amount of floc reached the turbidimeters. We would like to improve the method of sedimentation before the water gets to the turbidimeter.
A main goal of the testing is to develop a profile of floc formation along the length of the large-scale tapered flocculator.
If necessary, we may augment the turbidity level of the incoming water to simulate the higher turbidity levels found in Honduras.
We would also like to test a set-up that includes obstacles between the baffles. The idea behind this modification would be to make the velocity gradients more even throughout the sections. Previous AguaClara research has indicated that velocity gradients were much higher around the turns than along the length of the baffles.