Simulation of the Boycott Effect Using a Mixture Flow Solver

Abstract

Lamellar settlers are units used in water treatment plants to enhance the efficiency of suspended solids separation. The increase in efficiency compared to conventional equipment is mainly due to the Boycott effect, related with the plates inclination angle and spacing. This work presents the simulation of a Boycott effect problem with reference in the literature by means of a mixture solver with algebraic relative velocity. The simulation demonstrates the ability to represent the fundamental characteristics of the phenomenon: separation currents, slurry rheology, flow between plates, and the dynamics of the sedimentation front. Correct prediction of this phenomenon will enable the study of plant-scale problems aimed at optimizing the performance of plate settlers and improving the quality of treated water.