The new centrifuge dewatering systems from Centrisys Corp. produce a high percentage of “cake” that results in lower transportation and disposal costs, says Chris Gatewood, sales manager and general manager for western operations.
“Our systems will typically produce 30 to 50 percent solids,” Gatewood says. “With fuel costs so high, it’s a big advantage to dewater sludge so it’s as dry as possible. It all comes down to the basic economics of keeping transportation and disposal costs down.”
The units come in nine different sizes, with capacities ranging from 20 gallons per minute (or 1,200 gallons per hour) to 400 gallons per minute (or 24,000 gallons per hour). They weigh from 5,000 to 19,000 pounds. Their compact design minimizes required floor space and headroom (the footprints range from 144 inches long by 45 inches wide by 80 inches high for the smallest unit to 222 inches long by 88 inches wide by 110 inches tall for the largest unit).
A typical system includes a centrifuge, which uses centrifugal force to separate solids from the liquid; feed pump, polymer make-up system and a cake transport system (screw conveyor or cake pump). Centrifuge rotating components are made of corrosion-resistant metal. Non-rotating components that contact sludge are made of stainless steel. Price of the units range from $115,000 to $750,000, Gatewood says.
The units are fully enclosed, which reduces operator exposure to sludge, as well as decreases odor. Maintenance is minimal; just lubricate the ball bearings on the centrifuge rotor twice a week, Gatewood says.
“These units also are self-cleaning,” he says. “A 30-minute rinse cycle, which automatically initiates when you shut the machine down, dislodges any solids left in the machine.”
Skid- or trailer-mounted units come with all interconnective piping and electrical connections pre-assembled and pre-tested at the factory. The only connections required are feed, power and liquid discharge. Gatewood says that a unit can be up and running in as little as half a day.
The units’ portability allows contractors to develop an alternate revenue stream by performing on-site sludge dewatering. But the units can also be permanently installed in a facility, he says.
For more information: 262/654-6006; www.centrifuge-systems.com.
