Solid–Liquid Suspension in Pilot Plants: Using Engineering Tools to Understand At-Scale Capabilities

To address time lost due to inadequate assessment and understanding of solid suspension issues, empirical studies were conducted at pilot scale using a calcium carbonate and deionized water (DIW) system. Three tools were used and evaluated to understand suspension status: (1) turbidity meter response, (2) off-line sample analysis, and (3) difference between baffle and bottom temperatures. The data from these studies demonstrated that the most effective tool that also required the least effort was the difference between baffle and bottom temperatures. A standardized experimental procedure was developed and can be used to gain empirical suspension data at scale for any desired solid–liquid system. This procedure involved performing temperature adjustments in the vessel and observing the associated baffle/bottom temperature changes for varying agitator speeds.