A multiple-loop flotation column for wastewater treatment

The application of conventional flotation column to wastewater treatment has failed to realize its full potential mainly because of inadequate mixing (or backmixing) and non-uniform dispersion of bubbles in the column. Thus, the challenge lies in the development of a mechanical design which can provide proper hydrodynamic conditions that will result in efficient separation with high throughput. This paper describes a new column design in which multiple draft tubes were used. Test results demonstrate that this new design is superior to that of the conventional flotation column for wastewater treatment.