Stormwater Sump Drag Assemblies for Vortex Resuspension Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storm water runoff management systems face challenges in effectively reducing particulates, as high vortex velocities can lead to turbulence and resuspension of settled particulates, reducing the effectiveness of liquid quality devices.
Innovation Solution
A liquid quality system is installed in a containment structure, featuring a liquid quality device with a partitioning portion and weir, and drag-inducing assemblies that reduce vortex velocities and create a laminar flow path, using drag-inducing portions made from sheet metal to slow down liquid flow and guide it away from the outlet, thereby enhancing particulate separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high vortex velocities are used in liquid quality devices, then particulate separation may be enhanced, but turbulence and resuspension of settled particulates occur, reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid quality device is divided into multiple functional zones: an upper separation zone with high vortex velocity for particulate separation, and a lower sump region with reduced velocity for settled particulate storage. The partitioning portion creates distinct flow paths that segment the device into treatment and settlement zones, allowing each zone to optimize its function without interfering with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the device have different flow characteristics tailored to their specific functions. The upper region maintains high vortex velocities for effective separation, while the lower sump region has reduced velocities to prevent resuspension. The drag-inducing portions create localized flow control that modifies velocity profiles in specific areas without affecting the entire device uniformly.
2Productivity
If the flow path is shortened to increase flow rate, then productivity improves, but particulate settlement time is reduced, lowering separation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The device extends the flow path vertically through the containment structure rather than horizontally. Liquid enters at the top, flows downward through the separation zone, and settled particulates accumulate in the sump region at the bottom. This vertical arrangement allows for a longer effective flow path and settlement time within a compact footprint, maintaining productivity while enhancing separation efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively reduces particulate resuspension and improves the efficiency of particulate removal by controlling vortex velocities and extending the flow path, allowing for better settlement of particulates within the sump region.
Implementation Method 1
drag-inducing portions that reduce vortex velocities and create a laminar flow path
Implementation Method 2
high vortex velocities can lead to turbulence and resuspension of settled particulates
Implementation Method 3
allowing for better settlement of particulates within the sump region
Data Source
AI summary
A method for installing a liquid quality system into a containment structure, wherein the liquid quality system includes a liquid quality device and at least one drag-inducing assembly, wherein the at least one drag-inducing assembly includes at least one supporting portion and at least one drag-inducing portion, wherein when the liquid quality device is installed a sump region is formed below, is provided. The method may include mounting, at least partially in the sump region, the at least one supporting portion onto a sidewall of the containment structure. The method may also include attaching the at least one drag-inducing portion to the at least one supporting portion. The method may also include mounting the liquid quality device in the containment structure.