Solid-Liquid Operations

Recommended Prerequisites

Calculus, Physics, Thermodynamics, Fluid Dynamics.

Teaching Methods

Teaching is provided through lectures (T) and theoretical-practical classes (TP). In the lectures theoretical concepts and methodologies in the study of problems, together with some application examples, are exposed. In the TP classes the students must solve problems for applying concepts learned in the lectures. These classes are also designed to solve more complex problems related to the design of the equipments, in which the work and group discussion are promoted. 

Learning Outcomes

Acquiring basic knowledge engineering for analyzing processes based upon the transfer of moment included in the curricular unit; apply the concepts related with the interaction solid/fluid in the interpretation of the mechanical separation mechanisms of solids by gravitational action and/or centrifuge; understand the mixing mechanism of solid/liquid systems, the influence on concentration and temperature gradients, and the energy requirements

Acquisition of knowledge about calculation procedures for sizing and selection of equipments.

Develop the following skills: domain of theoretical knowledge, ability to integrate knowledge, ability to learn independently and apply theoretical concepts to new situations; critical and synthesis capability, and  a well structured way of thinking, by applying their theoretical and practical knowledge and understanding in a manner that indicates a professional approach to their work. 

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Discrete settling and sedimentation of concentrated suspensions. Richardson and Zaki’s equation. Batch sedimentation and curve of flux. Continuous sedimentation. Methods of Coe-Clevenger-Talmadge and Fitch.Types of filtration. General principles. Cake filtration. Incompressible cakes. General equation of filtration. Operation at constant rate and constant pressure. Filtration without and with filter medium resistance. Cake washing. Optimum volume of filtrrate. Equipments. Filtration with compressible cakes. Compressability factor. Principles of centrifugation. Relative centrifuge force. Types of centrifuges. Centrifugal pressure. Imiscible liquids and solid/liquids separation. Centrifugal filtration. Principles of mechanical mixing. Efficiency and intensity of mixing. Types of mixing devices. Flow patterns. Dimensionless groups. Hydrodynamyc head. Pumping capacity. Power input. Rate of homogenization. Mixer selection.

Head Lecturer(s)

Paulo Jorge Tavares Ferreira

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Frequency: 100.0%

Bibliography

Coulson, J.M.; Richardson, J.F. Chemical Engineering. 5th ed, Pergamon Press, Oxford, 2013

McCabe, W.L.; Smith, J.C., Unit Operations of Chemical Engineering. 3rd ed,McGraw-Hill, N.York, 1976

Cheremisinoff, N.P. Azbel, D.S. Fluid Mechanics and Unit Operations.  AnnArbor Sc., 1983

Seader, J.D., Separation Process Principles. 3rd ed, Wiley, 2010.