english Flotation Tank Cleaning Procedure
Comprehensive guidelines for effective and safe scum removal from flotation equipment
Pre-Cleaning Preparation
Before starting scum cleaning, first ensure the equipment is in a safe shutdown state. Turn off the water inlet, aeration system, and any related power supplies to avoid operational risks during cleaning.
Prepare necessary tools and materials:
- Soft-bristle brushes
- Non-corrosive cleaning agents
- Absorbent sponges or scrapers
- Collection container for the scum
Additionally, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, to prevent contact with wastewater or cleaning agents that may cause irritation.
Core Scum Cleaning Steps
Begin by removing floating scum from the surface of the flotation tank. Use a scraper or sponge to gently collect the scum—avoid applying excessive force to prevent scratching the tank's inner lining or damaging internal components like aeration pipes.
For stubborn scum deposits:
- Dilute non-corrosive cleaning agent with water
- Apply to sticky areas and allow to sit briefly
- Use soft-bristle brush to gently scrub until loosened
- Rinse with clean water to remove residues
Ensure no residue is left that could affect subsequent wastewater treatment processes.
Post-Cleaning Checks and Treatment
After cleaning, inspect the flotation tank and related components to confirm all scum has been removed. Check for any signs of damage, such as scratches on the tank lining or blockages in the scum discharge pipes—address these issues promptly if found.
Scum disposal protocol:
- Dispose of collected scum according to local environmental regulations
- For scum containing harmful substances, ensure treatment by qualified waste management facilities
- Avoid secondary pollution through proper handling
Finally, test the equipment briefly by restarting the system with a small amount of water to verify that the aeration, water circulation, and scum discharge functions work normally before resuming full operation.
Preventive Maintenance to Reduce Scum Buildup
To minimize frequent scum cleaning, implement regular preventive maintenance. Adjust the equipment's operating parameters (such as aeration intensity and chemical dosage) appropriately to improve scum separation efficiency, reducing the amount of scum that adheres to tank walls.
Key preventive measures:
- Conduct regular inspections of the scum discharge system
- Ensure discharge pathways remain unobstructed
- Clean equipment at scheduled intervals based on usage intensity
- Consider wastewater type when determining cleaning frequency
This proactive approach prevents excessive scum buildup and maintains the equipment's long-term performance.
