The TeaCup is a free vortex centrifugal separator used to capture, classify, wash and remove fine grit, sugar sand, silt, snail shells, river sand, and high density fixed solids from slurries.

The TeaCup can be used to treat dilute wastewater or concentrated grit / organic slurry from other grit removal processes.

Flow is typically pumped to the unit and enters the vessel tangentially at a controlled rate and velocity. In most applications it is recommended that the unit be operated continuously. Flow exits the center top of the TeaCup at an increased velocity. This discharge configuration generates the free vortex creating centrifugal velocities in excess of 20G and a thin predictable boundary layer. Heavier grit is forced to the outside perimeter while lighter grit is held in suspension until it falls by gravity into the boundary layer which sweeps captured grit into the collection cone at the bottom of the unit. Organics are separated from the grit through the classification process and size based boundary layer discrimination.

The degritted slurry water containing the organics is forced to the center of the unit in order to exit. Once discharged, the organic laden slurry can be returned for biological processing. The concentrated grit slurry containing <20% VS is periodically fluidized with plant water and is purged from the system automatically on a timed basis. As flows increase in the TeaCup centrifugal forces also increase, resulting in improved removal efficiency. Controls are adjustable and fully automatic.