Inflow Distribution: The wastewater enters the clarifier and is evenly distributed across the surface of the tank to ensure uniform flow and settling conditions. Inlet baffles or other flow control devices are often used for this purpose.
Settling Zone: As the wastewater flows through the clarifier, it enters a quiescent or low-velocity settling zone. The reduce velocity allows the suspende solids and particles to settle out of the wastewater due to gravity.
Sedimentation: The settling zone allows the heavier and larger particles to settle more quickly, while smaller and lighter particles take longer to settle. The settling process is facilitated by the removal of turbulence and the creation of calm conditions within the clarifier.
Sludge Collection: The settle particles form a layer of sludge or sediment at the bottom of the clarifier, known as primary sludge. This sludge is periodically collect and removed using sludge rakes, scrapers, or other mechanisms and directed to further treatment processes or sludge handling facilities.
Clarified Effluent: The clarified wastewater, with reduce suspende solids concentration, flows out of the clarifier through effluent weirs or outlets locate near the top of the tank. The effluent is typically clearer and cleaner than the influent wastewater.