Homogenization

1. Description: Variations in flow usually present problems of an operating type, which is the reason why homogenization tanks are an option in order to overcome this difficulty, thus generating constant effluents. Also, the size and costs of the treatment units located downstream are reduced. Homogenization is a useful practice in small treatment plants undergoing variations between the maximum and minimum flow and the contaminated effluent charges.

There are two types of units for the homogenization of flow called in line or bypass unit. They can be homogenization in line tanks and diffuse tanks. The first ones should be designed to achieve a complete mixing, and the concentration.

In a strict sense one can say that the homogenization refers to unifying the characteristics of waste water and equalization when it is necessary to regulate the flow or flow rate. It is necessary that this tank (homogenization or equalization) must be well mixed to prevent bad odors and sedimentation of solids.

To size a unit of equalization one should achieve a mass balance, a method "where one compares the affluent volume of the treatment plant to the hourly average water volume for 24 hours", failing this, one should measure flow variation every hour. If the affluent volume is less than the average, the homogenization tank must be drained; if the affluent volume is higher than the average, the tank begins to fill with the excess of residual water.

2. Design ranges: consult our Engineering Department.

Important factors to consider in the design:

     a. Flow.

     b. Retention time.

     c. Daily flow.

     d. Defined volume.

3. Applications: Industrial plants (metallurgical, chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, etc.).

4. Benefits:

     a. Stabilization of a WWTP.

     b. Low operation and maintenance cost.

     c. Unification of flow rates.