Sludge dewatering using centrifuge with thermal/polymer conditioning

Abstract

Sludge dewatering is preceded by a conditioning operation to enhance water removal efficiency. In the conditioning operation, chemical coagulants or polymers are added to promote sludge particle aggregation for easier dewatering. In this study, an alternative conditioning method for sludge thermal treatment at temperatures up to 80°C was extensively investigated. Dewatering characteristics such as sludge capillary suction time and specific resistance to filtration, sludge viscosity and concentration of solid cakes were examined thoroughly. A good correlation between capillary suction time and specific resistance to filtration was established for sludges from water treatment, but not for biological sludge. Cationic polymer exhibits the best enhancement on sludge moisture removal. The sludge rheogram varies from 60 to 5 cP as temperature changes from 20 to 80°C for sludges from water treatment plant. The dewatering ability of sludge can be greatly enhanced by thermal treatment in conjunction with the use of polymers.