International technology Group ANDRITZ has developed EvoLute NT, a new system for diluting thickener feed that uses the overflow liquid from the thickener to dilute incoming slurries or suspensions to the optimum solid-liquid ratio.

This new, patented system is designed for flow rates between 600 and 9,000 m3/h. The dilution system does not interfere with the thickener settling process and can also accommodate slurries with low pH values. And with different flow rate configurations available, each system can be adjusted flexibly to the individual customer’s needs.

The high dilution flow rates that EvoLute NT achieves translate into cost savings through lower power consumption. EvoLute NT has also been optimised in terms of maintenance thanks to easily interchangeable parts that do not require the thickener to be shut down. In addition, the system can be integrated into the thickener automation processes.

In the most challenging applications, reliable clarification and thickening are critical to maintaining continuous production. “That is why ANDRITZ has invested decades of expertise with thickening and clarification systems to develop EvoLute NT, an efficient and cost-effective solid/liquid separation system with a crystal-clear overflow. The dilution process, where liquid is added to the incoming material and the solids concentration is reduced by adding more solvent, is a critical step. Dilution guarantees a perfect solid-liquid ratio in the thickener feed, which in turn enhances the settling rate of particles in the suspension when flocculants are added.”

ANDRITZ says it offers many more dilution systems with flow rates of up to 15,000 m3/h for a wide variety of applications. “With their unique design features, ANDRITZ thickeners – including the ANDRITZ EvoLute NT dilution system – are considered the most effective and technologically viable systems on the market.”