What is the main purpose of the sedimentation basin in water treatment?

The main purpose of the sedimentation basin in water treatment is to remove larger particles and floc from the water. During the water treatment process, coagulants are added to destabilize particles, allowing them to clump together into larger aggregates, known as floc. After coagulation, the water is passed into the sedimentation basin, where these heavier floc particles settle to the bottom due to gravity. This process reduces the concentration of suspended solids in the water, thereby improving its overall quality before further treatment steps, such as filtration and disinfection.

The sedimentation basin plays a crucial role in the water treatment process by enabling the efficient separation of solid particulates from water, which is essential for producing clean and safe drinking water. The effectiveness of this process significantly influences the efficiency of subsequent treatment stages, making it a vital component of a water treatment facility.