Introduction
In wastewater and drinking water treatment systems, clarification is used to separate solids from liquids. For WWTPs, a right clarification system enables them to meet stricter discharge standards and increasing capacity demands. But among which one should they choose? This article compares lamella tube settlers with conventional clarifiers to help EPC contractors, municipal planners make decisions for their water treatment projects.
What are Tube Settlers?
Tube settlers (lamella clarifiers) consist of PVC or FRP inclined plates or tubes, and are angled at 45 ~ 60°. They work by reducing the vertical distance that suspended solids must travel before settling. Because the settling distance is greatly reduced (typically < 10 cm), even fine solids can be removed efficiently. Their benefits mainly include:
• Smaller footprint than traditional clarifiers
• Faster installation due to modular design
• Higher settling efficiency and solids removal rate
These tube settlers are useful in systems where space is limited or capacity can be added without major civil modifications.
What are Conventional Clarifiers?
Conventional clarifiers are large, open basins that use gravity settling over a horizontal or radial flow path. They include components like inlet diffusers, settling zones, sludge hoppers, and effluent launders. Solids gradually settle to the bottom and are removed by scrapers, while clarified water exits from the top. They feature:
• Larger footprint
• Slower sedimentation rate
• Suitable for high-flow, new-construction projects
• Often used in primary and secondary treatment stages
Compared with tube settlers, these systems are also reliable, but require more space and longer construction time.
Comparison Between Tube Settlers vs Conventional Clarifiers
|
Feature |
Tube Settlers (Lamella) |
Conventional Clarifiers |
|
Footprint |
Compact, space-saving |
Large, requires extensive civil works |
|
Installation Time |
Fast, modular units |
Slower due to tank construction |
|
Settling Efficiency |
High (short settling path) |
Moderate |
|
Retrofit Potential |
Excellent for upgrades |
Limited |
|
Maintenance |
Easy module replacement |
Requires periodic tank cleaning |
|
Applications |
Expansion projects, limited space |
New plants, large-scale treatment |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose tube settlers when you're
• Expanding capacity without increasing footprint
• Retrofitting or upgrading old clarifiers
• Needing quick installation
• Improving performance without full reconstruction
Choose conventional clarifiers when
• Space and time allow for civil construction
• Handling very high flow volumes
• Building a new plant from scratch
• Preferring simple, gravity-based systems
FAQs
Q1: Are tube settlers suitable for municipal wastewater?
Yes. Tube settlers are commonly used in municipal plants, especially for upgrading existing sedimentation tanks.
Q2: What is the difference between lamella settlers and tube settlers?
They refer to the same technology. Lamella refers to the inclined plates or tubes used to shorten the settling distance.
Q3: Can tube settlers replace traditional clarifiers?
Not always. While they improve performance, they are typically installed within existing clarifier tanks rather than acting as complete replacements.
Q4: What maintenance do tube settlers require?
Routine cleaning and occasional replacement of modular tubes. Maintenance is generally easier than that of full clarifier basins.
Conclusion
Both tube settlers and conventional clarifiers are popular in modern water treatment. Tube settlers come with a modular design, with higher efficiency and less maintenance. Conventional clarifiers are easier to use and scalable. Which one is best mainly depends on your plant's goals, layout constraints, and timeline.
Partner with AquaSust for Smart Clarification Solutions
At AquaSust, we manufacture high-quality lamella tube settlers and support customized designing systems tailored to your project needs. Whether you're planning a new build or upgrading an existing site, our team can help you select the right solution. Contact us today to get a quote or technical consultation.