Effect of Groove Shape on Head Loss and Filtration Performance of Disc Filters

Abstract

To analyze the effect of a groove cross-sectional shape on disc filters, a head loss analysis and filtration performance test were conducted using disc filters with different groove shapes (semi-elliptical- and trapezoidal-shaped grooves). Furthermore, the groove shapes were analyzed using field emission scanning electron microscopy and the relationship between flow rate and head loss was derived from the head loss test. Even if the filters were designed with the same mesh standard, the sectional areas of the grooves were different depending on the shape. Therefore, the head loss was compared under the condition that the grooves have the same sectional area by applying the relationship between head loss and sectional area, and a smaller head loss was observed in the semi-elliptical-shaped groove. Additionally, the semi-elliptical-groove-shaped disc filter was evaluated to sufficiently filter the soil particles corresponding to the 120 mesh standard. Therefore, an optimum disc filter can be designed by considering the cross-sectional shape of the disc groove to reduce energy consumption and provide stable filtration. The elliptical groove shape, which is hydraulically advantageous, is preferred for the disc filter design.