This paper presents a follow-up study on the application of a newly developed multi-stage loop-flow flotation (MSTLFLOŽ) process for wastewater treatment. Experiments have been carried out in a 12-inch outside diameter (O.D.) column for separating emulsified oil from oil-water mixture. Test results when combined with previous experimental data obtained in a 4-inch O.D. unit provide a basis for establishing scale-up parameters for the design of commercial scale units. In addition, economic analyses of commercial units operated at a capacity of 1.0 and 10.0 MGD show that the MSTLFLO process compares favorably to current wastewater treatment technologies on a cost basis.

The results of this study have demonstrated that the multi-stage loop-flow flotation column is a highly efficient and low cost process for removing contaminants from wastewater. Further development to explore its potential industrial and commercial applications is discussed.