A sediment-feed system to
regulate suspended solids in flow-through mesocosms
T.P.
Diggins-2003
North
Americal Journal of Aquaculture, 65(1): 63-66
Abstract:
A low-cost sediment-feed system was developed to
introduce suspended solids to flow-through mesocosms. This design allows
suspended solids to be regulated independently from the flow rate and
turbulence within experimental tanks. It incorporates a stock vessel holding
a vigorously mixed and very dense sediment suspension. A slow drip of
particle-free water causes periodic overflows that gradually introduce this
sediment suspension, via gravity-feed lines, to a head tank supplying the
flow-through system. Suspended solids never pass through pumps, valves, or
narrow tubing that are prone to clogging. The system was operated
continuously for 72 h, delivering particle-laden water to four 40-L tanks at
1.3-1.5 L/min each. With occasional operator adjustments, suspended solids
were maintained within 15% of a target concentration of 6 mg/L.
(Youngstown State Univ., Dept. Biol., 1 Univ. Plaza,
Youngstown, OH 44503, USA)