Formula Used:
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The formula calculates the width of a tank based on detention time, length, depth, and discharge rate. It is commonly used in hydraulic engineering and water treatment plant design to determine appropriate tank dimensions for optimal water retention.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula rearranges the basic hydraulic equation to solve for width when detention time and other dimensions are known.
Details: Proper tank width calculation ensures adequate detention time for processes like sedimentation, chemical mixing, or biological treatment in water and wastewater treatment systems.
Tips: Enter detention time in seconds, length and depth in meters, and discharge in cubic meters per second. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What is detention time and why is it important?
A: Detention time is the duration that water remains in a treatment unit. It's crucial for allowing sufficient time for physical, chemical, or biological processes to occur effectively.
Q2: How does discharge rate affect tank width?
A: Higher discharge rates require wider tanks to maintain the same detention time, assuming length and depth remain constant.
Q3: What are typical detention times for different treatment processes?
A: Detention times vary widely: sedimentation tanks (2-4 hours), rapid mix units (30-60 seconds), flocculation basins (20-40 minutes).
Q4: Can this formula be used for any tank shape?
A: This formula specifically applies to rectangular tanks. Different formulas are needed for circular or other shaped tanks.
Q5: What units should be used for accurate calculations?
A: Consistent SI units are recommended: meters for dimensions, seconds for time, and cubic meters per second for discharge.