The Jar Tester (JT) is used to simulate the flocculation and coagulation processes that occur at a waste water treatment plant.

A jar test is a commonly practiced procedure used by waste water managers to help gauge volume of coagulants that should be used to result in the cleanest water after treatment. This test is used to predict on a small scale the most effective way to treat effluent during the purification stage of waste water treatment on a large scale.

The six separate jars, each accompanied by a stainless steel paddle, can be used to test six different volumes of coagulants at one time. The same water sample is poured into each jar. Visual inspection of the cleanest water sample above the settled material will predict the correct amount of coagulant to be used. This jar mixer can also be used to test such variables as pH and mixing speeds.

Requirements: The JT may be used only in a laboratory or classroom setting. Electricity and a large table space are required for operation.

Manufacturer: Phipps & Bird PB-700 Series Six Paddle Standard JarTester

Suggested Courses: Earth Science, Environmental Science

Video Demonstration: (None available at this time)

Directions:

The following information describes the features of the PB-700 Jar Tester.

1. The only controls on the jar tester are the main power switch, speed control (RPM) knob, high/low switch and the floc illuminator on/off switch. These controls are located on the front panel (and to the side) of the motor control box.

-The main power switch controls all power to the jar tester. Before plugging in the power supply cord into a power receptacle, make certain the main power switch is OFF.

-The speed control knob control the speed of the paddles blades in revolutions per minute. The PB-700 can operate between 0-300 rpm.

-The high/low switch toggles between high and low speed ranges for the paddles. The low range is from 0 to 30 rpm and the high is from 30 to 300 rpm.

-The floc illumination switch turns the fluorescent lamp on and off. It can be turned on during the stirrer agitation or during a period of rest

-Before turning the main power switch on, turn the speed control knob to extreme counter clockwise position and the high/low switch should be in the low position. Once plugged in, and adjusted to the desired rpm, the stirrer will provide a continuous range of near-constant stirring speed. The speed will be displayed on the front panel.

2. The height of each paddle may be raised or lowered by means of the adjustment collar. To raise or lower the paddles:

1. Grad the knob on the top and raise the paddle.

2. Turn the thumbs crew counterclockwise and loosen the paddle height adjusting collar from the paddle shaft. Set the paddle height adjusting collar at desired height and then tighten the thumbs crew to paddle shaft.

3. Lower the knob on the top until the paddle height adjusting collar engages with the pin on the driving dog.