A new method for the control of dilute suspension sedimentation by horizontal movement

This research addresses some factors that control the stability of dilute suspensions in sedimentation processes under a dynamic environment. Experimental and numerical studies were conducted about the sedimentation velocity control of dilute suspensions by horizontal movement for particle concentrations up to 8 wt.%. Nearly monodispersed particles were used as test particles. The effects of horizontal movement speed and amplitude on particle sedimentation process were investigated. Under stationary conditions, particles settle in only one vertical direction because of gravitational force. However, complicated particle motions arise under moving conditions due to circulation flow in horizontal moving conditions. The results show that horizontal movement can reduce the particle settling velocity or maintain the stability of the suspension.