Effect of guide-plate implementation on the flow-field of an integrated oxidation ditch with vertical circle (IODVC) system

Non-uniform flow often results in sludge deposit and other problems in the operation of an integrated oxidation ditch with vertical circle (IODVC) systems. In this work, the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique was applied to conduct a two-dimensional simulation of the liquid-phase flow in an IODVC. Specifically, the moving reference frame model, fan model, and the RNG k-ε model were used to describe numerically the behaviors of the aeration brush, submerged impeller, and turbulence in the IODVC, respectively. After model verification, the CFD-based model was used to analyze the impact of guide-plate implementation on the flow-field of the IODVC in comparison with a system without the guide-plate installed. The outcomes suggest that the CFD model can properly portray the velocity distribution throughout the ditch. In addition, the installation of a guide-plate at a proper position can substantially increase the percentage of the high-velocity regime in the main ditch, simultaneously optimizing the flow pattern near the rear of the diversion plate. Overall, guide-plate installation is a promising approach to reduce and prevent sludge deposits in the IODVC reactor, providing guidance for future design, and optimization and application of the IODVC.