Garmsiri, MR, Haji Amin Shirazi, H & Yahyaei, M 2009, 'Introducing Mathematical Models to Define Settling Curves in Designing Thickeners', in R Jewell, AB Fourie, S Barrera & J Wiertz (eds), Paste 2009: Proceedings of the Twelfth International Seminar on Paste and Thickened Tailings, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 129-135, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/963_15
(https://papers.acg.uwa.edu.au/p/963_15_Garmsiri/)
Abstract: Thickener design is based on settling tests and settling curves. In a settling curve, the mud line (interface 
between the settled pulp and clean water) height is plotted versus time. In this paper three mathematical 
models are introduced to define settling curves. Approximately 300 settling tests with varying feed solids 
concentration and flocculant types and dosages using iron, copper, coal, lead and zinc were conducted to 
verify equations. The coefficient of determination (R2) was used to evaluate the validation of equations. It is 
shown that with the first model in 98% of cases, and with the second and third models in 99 and 100% of the 
cases, R2 was greater than 0.99. A quick interpretation of the settling test results, simple determination of 
critical point and error corrections are considered to be benefits of the presented mathematical models.