LAKOS Waterworks PWC Series Separators
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5. Vertical Units: Be aware that solids may accumulate within the separator for a period of time
until the solids reach the level of the purge outlet. The purge outlet is not flush with the
bottom of the solids collection chamber.
6. Purging: Purge line piping should be as straight as possible to desired disposal destination.
Avoid uphill piping, multiple elbows and low points where solids may accumulate and block
the piping. Unless advised otherwise, do not reduce the piping size from that of the
separator’s purge outlet size; restrictions can cause blockage and prevent proper purging of
separated solids.
Purge duration should be long enough to not only evacuate solids from the separator, but
also to push the solids through the entire length of purge line piping to desired disposal.
Typically, we recommend that you program automatic valves, especially motorized ball
valves, to purge for no less than 25 seconds. This provides time for the valve to remain fully
open long enough to flush a separator’s collection chamber. Consult LAKOS for unusual
circumstances.
IMPORTANT: Note that the collection chamber capacity of each separator (see page 4)
should typically not be exceeded by more than 1/3-full (or less); the solids must include
sufficient fluid to navigate the purge valve & purge line piping. It depends on the solids’
capacity to compact and the time frame it takes to accumulate in the separator. Generally,
solids should not be allowed to accumulate in the separator’s collection chamber for long
periods of time; purging at least daily is recommended when the separator is in operation,
more often if the solids tend to compact tightly/easily.
Continuous purging should not exceed 10% of the inlet flow. The use of a valve to bleed
solids from a separator must be monitored to be sure that the reduced orifice does not
become clogged with solids.
Oversizing the purge line piping may allow solids to settle in the piping; be aware that velocity
is needed to flush solids through the purge line piping.
Estimated water & solids volume through a 1 ½ inch purge outlet is estimated at 35-150
gallons (135-720 liters); that’s a combination of both solids and liquid. The variable takes into
account the separator size, flow rate and system pressure. Allow adequate drainage or
retention capacity for this volume per purge cycle. Consult LAKOS for options to further
concentrate solids and recover/manage purged liquid.
7. Bi-Sep Configuration: Two-stage separators installed in series must be purged separately. Do
not join purge outlets from two or more separators.
8. Flanges: All flanges should have the appropriate gasket/seal in order to ensure a leak-free
installation. All hand-hole clean-out ports and other internal access devices should also be
properly re-sealed after use.