Horizontal Lamella Clarifier or Inclined Plate Settler (IPS)
Designed for high-performance sedimentation, these customizable lamella clarifiers ensure efficient solids removal, extended operational life, and dependable operation across industrial and municipal applications.
Purpose
The Horizontal Lamella Clarifier is designed for efficient mechanical purification of water and wastewater. It effectively removes suspended solids from natural water bodies, industrial wastewater, surface and stormwater, as well as domestic wastewater after biological treatment. The collected sediment is periodically discharged through a bottom sludge outlet without stopping the sedimentation process.
Design Customized for the Client's Objectives
Number and inclination of lamella/plate modules to optimize sedimentation rate.
The lamella clarifier can operate in continuous mode.
Choice of construction material (PP, PVC, PE, PVDF) based on chemical resistance, temperature, and mechanical load.
Dimensions of the clarifier to fit available space and required throughput.
Optional automation and control systems for continuous operation and periodic sludge discharge.
Integration with existing water treatment or wastewater management facilities.
Applications
This clarifier is versatile in its application across different sectors, effectively enhancing the quality of water by efficiently removing suspended particles and improving the overall efficiency of water treatment processes.
Water clarification for technical or drinking purposes in water treatment facilities.
Preliminary purification of surface water and stormwater from suspended pollutants.
Industrial water recycling.
Secondary treatment of domestic wastewater after biological processes, removing residual activated sludge and other particles.
Horizontal Plate Clarifiers are typically made from plastics that offer high chemical resistance, durability, and strength. The common materials used include: Polypropylene (PP) — Known for its excellent chemical resistance, especially against cleaning agents and various organic solvents. It has a good balance of thermal resistance, strength, and cost-effectiveness. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) — PVC is chosen for its good chemical resistance, especially to acids, bases, salts, and fats. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to fabricate. Polyethylene (PE) — Including both high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), PE is used for its resistance to a wide variety of chemicals and its impact resistance. HDPE, in particular, is known for its high strength-to-density ratio. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) — This material is selected for applications requiring high purity and resistance to solvents, acids, and heat. It is more expensive than the other plastics but provides superior performance in harsh chemical environments.
Specification
Parameter;Typical Range / Value;Notes
Type;Horizontal Lamella Clarifier (Inclined Plate Settler, IPS);Modular, made to order
Flow capacity;5 – 4,400 gpm (≈ 1 – 1,000 m³/h);Customizable per project size
Surface overflow rate (SOR);0.2 – 2.0 gpm/ft²;Typical: 0.5–1.0 gpm/ft² for fine solids, up to 2.0 for coarse particles
Effective settling area;20 – 5,000 ft²;Determined by Q and SOR
Lamella plate angle;45° – 60°;Commonly 55° ±10°
Plate spacing (gap);0.8 – 2.4 in (20 – 60 mm);Depends on solids size and loading
Hydraulic retention time (HRT);5 – 30 min;Adjustable via tank size and flow velocity
Sludge removal;Manual / Semi-automatic / Automatic (continuous);Bottom hopper discharge
Construction materials;PP / PVC / PE (HDPE) / PVDF;Selected for chemical resistance & temperature
Operating temperature;14°F to 140°F (PP/PVC/PE), up to 250°F (PVDF);PVDF recommended for hot or aggressive fluids
Operating pressure;Atmospheric / low head;Not designed for pressure service
Installation type;Indoor or outdoor;Optional weather protection
Operation mode;Continuous or batch;Configurable
Optional features;Flow equalization, level sensors, PLC automation;Custom integration available