This unit is typically used to remove solids from industrial waste and process waters. For municipal treatment plants, they are often used to clarify and remove solids from sand filter backwash water and other filtration processes.

Increased Flow and Reduced Footprint

The liquid then enters the lower area of the laminar plates through side slots which distribute it across the entire width of the plates. Particulate settles onto the face of the plates and slides down to the clarifier bottom. The clarified liquid exits the plate sections through weirs at the top of the unit which are designed to develop and control adequate pressure drop, maintaining laminar flow through the plates. The clarified liquid then flows into the effluent chamber and out of the clarifier.

Settled solids collect at the bottom of the pyramid sludge hopper and are removed from the clarifier. A Sludge Thickener (optional) with rake mechanism may be utilized in place of the pyramid hopper when applicable.

The unique, modular design of the Monroe Parallel Plate Vertical Clarifier allows for easy removal of individual laminar plate modules from the clarifier for inspection.

Minimal Maintenance Requirements for Lamella Clarifiers

Options to Enhance Efficiency

While many installations provide adequate solids removal without influent pre-treatment, optional mixers and flocculator tanks are available to enhance efficiency when required. Some solids must be flocculated to achieve adequate mass to be effectively removed. Monroe Parallel Plate Vertical Clarifiers are manufactured in two different plate inclinations; the 45° clarifiers are designed for removal of heavy solids while the 55° clarifiers are designed for light solid removal applications.

Power and Operational Cost Considerations

Inclined plate clarifiers are engineered for efficiency, with modest power demands compared to many traditional separation systems. Their design typically utilizes slow-moving drives and low-horsepower motors—often requiring less energy than conventional clarifiers or mechanical alternatives.

This efficient operation helps to substantially reduce ongoing operational costs, making these clarifiers a cost-effective solution for both municipal and industrial facilities. The simplified mechanics not only cut down on energy expenses, but also minimize maintenance needs over the long term, adding further value to the system’s lifecycle.