Understanding Polymer For Thickening And Dewatering Processes

Polymers are excellent flocculants and are critical for use as a solids conditioner prior to thickening and dewatering equipment. Applying polymer prior to a thickening or dewatering process, or “conditioning”, is often a requirement for the thickening or dewatering equipment to successfully operate. This operator fact sheet takes readers through the basics of polymers used in thickening and dewatering processes. You will learn about different types of polymer products, how to calculate polymer dose, appropriate handling and storage of polymer products, and equipment and processes relating to make-down and activation. This information can help operators make informed decisions to save money on polymer use in water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs).