Single cell gas flotation separator with filter media

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The apparatus and method of the present invention provides a system which solves the problems inherent in having distinct flotation and filtration separation devices.
What is provided is a single cell vessel which houses both the flotation zone of an induced gas flotation separator, and the filter media through which liquid effluent from the flotation process must pass in order to exit the single cell vessel.
The single cell vessel may be of various configurations, preferably capable of withstanding virtually any industrial pressure requirement.
The vessel defines a chamber which is in communication with an inlet for receiving influent liquid which has passed through an eductor means for inducing gas into the influent.
The vessel chamber provides means for maintaining a liquid level into which the gas induced influent is released.
The release point is generally below the liquid level of the contained liquid and a removal means is presented for froth skimming and discharge.
A trough is located in the upper portion of the vessel for receiving and removing froth laden impurities which have accumulated on the liquid surface.
The chamber is in communication with an outlet means in a lower portion thereof for discharging clarified liquid.
Between the location of the influent inlet and the clarified liquid outlet is the filter media.
In order for the flotation process effluent to reach the discharge outlet it must pass through the filter media.
Various filter media may be utilized, including a layer of sand or other similar material.
The preferred filter media will depend upon the characteristics of the liquid being treated and the quantity and characteristics of the impurities therein.
Where a layer of filter media is utilized, a piping arrangement located in the lower portion of the filter media bed provides for collection of the filtered liquid and directs the collected filtered liquid to the discharge outlet.
The collection piping has numerous small openings which allow for entry of the liquid being filtered into the pipe, but which do not allow passage of filter media into the pipe