What is the primary purpose of a clarifier in wastewater treatment?

The primary purpose of a clarifier in wastewater treatment is to allow solids to settle out of the liquid. In the clarification process, wastewater is directed into a large tank where gravity plays a crucial role. The design of the clarifier promotes the settling of suspended solids, which are denser than water, allowing them to sink to the bottom. This sludge is collected and periodically removed from the tank.

By effectively separating the solids from the liquid, clarifiers enhance the overall efficiency of the treatment process, ensuring that the cleaner supernatant that remains can then be directed for further treatment or discharge. This process is essential for reducing organic load, helping to purify the wastewater and making it easier to treat in subsequent stages of the treatment process.