Vortex pumps transport raw sewage as well as treated effluent to various parts within wastewater treatment plants. They are commonly known as recessed impeller pumps. These pumps use the impeller’s circular spinning motion to create a powerful vortex. The key to a vortex pump’s function is that fluids don’t come into contact with the impeller, meaning that there will be no clogging if it’s functioning properly. Vortex pumps require a higher horsepower in order to create the pumping action that effectively allows fluids to flow through - which is a downside, as they are not as efficient due to the fact that it’s designed to prevent clogging.
For the reasons stated above, vortex pumps are most commonly used to handle the processes within wastewater treatment whereby the fluid has higher densities and viscosities - such as grit filtration, sludge and solids handling, and scum removal. Internal designs vary for vortex pumps depending on what type of fluid is flowing through the pumps which may increase or decrease efficiency. Here are five key areas where vortex pumps are commonly employed:
Primary Treatment: In the initial stages of wastewater treatment, vortex pumps are instrumental in transferring raw sewage from collection basins or wet wells to preliminary treatment processes. Their robust design allows them to handle the diverse solids and debris present in raw sewage, effectively transporting it to screening or grit removal equipment for further processing.
Sludge Handling: Vortex pumps play a pivotal role in managing sludge within wastewater treatment plants. They excel in transferring thickened sludge with high solids content from sedimentation tanks to subsequent treatment processes such as digesters or dewatering equipment. This facilitates the separation and processing of solids, ensuring efficient treatment of wastewater.
Scum Removal: Wastewater treatment facilities often deal with the accumulation of scum—a floating layer of organic matter and grease—on the surface of treatment basins or tanks. Vortex pumps are used to remove scum, maintaining the operational efficiency of treatment processes by preventing clogging and facilitating the proper functioning of downstream equipment.
The vortex pump in the image above is manufactured by Wilo.
Chemical Dosing: Vortex pumps are also utilized for precise chemical dosing in wastewater treatment operations. They accurately meter chemicals such as coagulants, flocculants, and disinfectants into the wastewater stream, facilitating the removal of contaminants and pathogens.
Effluent Transfer: Following treatment, the treated wastewater, known as effluent, requires transfer to storage tanks, disinfection units, or discharge points. Vortex pumps are employed for this purpose, efficiently handling the transfer of effluent within the treatment plant. Their ability to handle fluids with suspended solids ensures smooth and reliable effluent transfer, facilitating the final stages of the treatment process.
In each of these applications, vortex pumps demonstrate their versatility and reliability, making them imperative components of wastewater treatment systems.
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