In sedimentation basins, what is the purpose of baffles?

In sedimentation basins, baffles are primarily used to distribute flow evenly throughout the basin. This is crucial because uneven flow can create turbulence, which may disrupt the settling process of suspended solids. By directing the flow in a controlled manner, baffles help maintain a consistent velocity as water moves through the basin, allowing particles the necessary time to settle to the bottom effectively.

This evenly distributed flow ensures that the sedimentation process functions optimally, helping maximize the basin's efficiency in removing solids from the water. When the water flows uniformly, it reduces the likelihood of short-circuiting or dead zones where particles might not settle out as intended. Properly designed baffles help improve overall water quality by facilitating sedimentation and optimizing the performance of the treatment process.