Traction thickeners
Traction thickeners have a stationary
center pier, which partially supports
the rake mechanism and serves as a
pivot about which the rakes rotate.
The rakes are powered by one or two
drive units that run steel traction
wheels around a steel rail at the
periphery of the tank. The units are
normally installed in concrete tanks
and are available in diameters up to
650 feet. Under the proper climatic
conditions, traction thickeners are a
very efficient, cost effective design.