Understanding pollutant types is critical for sedimentation tank selection. Key characteristics to evaluate include:

• Pollutant composition: Identify suspended particles, oil content, colloids, and other contaminants
• Physical parameters: Measure pH, temperature, turbidity, and viscosity
• Special requirements: Oily wastewater needs scum resistance features, while high-turbidity water requires enhanced particle settling capacity

Select tank configuration based on wastewater properties:

• Horizontal flow tanks: Optimal for wastewater with fast-settling suspended particles
• Vertical flow tanks: Best for organic-rich wastewater with high COD/BOD levels
• Inclined plate tanks: Recommended for variable quality wastewater due to operational stability

Critical engineering considerations:

• Inlet design: Install energy dissipators to prevent flow disruption
• Flow management: Optimize diversion facilities to eliminate short-circuiting
• Outlet configuration: Implement uniform collection weirs to minimize clear water disturbance

Positioning sedimentation within treatment sequence:

• Pretreatment focus: Maximize suspended solids removal to reduce downstream load
• Clarification requirements: Ensure effluent quality meets specifications for advanced treatment processes
• System compatibility: Match sludge characteristics with dewatering/disposal systems

Practical implementation factors:

• Structural simplicity: Prefer designs enabling easy sludge removal and equipment maintenance
• Flow adaptability: Ensure stable operation during volume fluctuations without frequent adjustments
• Maintenance protocols: Incorporate accessible inspection points and cleaning systems