### **Part 2: Troubleshooting Biological Processes in Wastewater Treatment Systems** 🔧*Key Troubleshooting Areas in Biological Processes in W...
Published on by Hossein Ataei Far, Deputy Manager of the Research, Technology Development, and Industry Relations Center at NWWEC
*Key Troubleshooting Areas in Biological Processes in Wastewater Treatment Systems*
Increased Effluent BOD/COD*
High BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) and COD (chemical oxygen demand) levels in treated effluent typically indicate ineffective breakdown of organic matter. This issue is often exacerbated by microbial imbalances, leading to inefficient treatment. Optimizing aeration and adjusting sludge age can help improve biological treatment by promoting more active microbial communities that can effectively degrade organic matter.
Poor settling sludge is commonly associated with filamentous bacteria growth, which disrupts the flocculation process and leads to poor sludge compaction. Understanding the microbial ecology of the activated sludge process is essential for resolving this issue, as it helps in identifying the conditions that promote filamentous bacteria growth and taking corrective actions.
Foaming
The person can result from the growth of filamentous microorganisms or the presence of surfactants in the system. This is often a sign of imbalanced microbial populations or the presence of detergent-like substances. Identifying the specific microorganisms causing foam and implementing corrective measures, such as selective foam removal, is key to controlling this issue.
-Odors
Odours, particularly hydrnia, are typically signs of anaerobic conditions or incomplete treatment. These conditions often result from inadequate aeration or the build-up of certain compounds that are not fully treated. Improving aeration and optimizing pH levels are effective strategies for reducing these odors and enhancing treatment performance.
Process Parameters to Monitor:
Temperatu temperature and pH play critical roles in microbial activity and overall treatment efficiency. Temperatures outside the optimal range (typically 10-35°C) or pH levels outside the range of 6.5-8.5 can significantly hinder biological treatment. Regular monitoring and adjustments of these parameters are necessary to maintain stable biological activity.
Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
Adequate DO levels are crucial for the propionic processes. Low DO levels can impair microbial activity, leading to reduced treatment efficiency. Aeration rates may need to be adjusted to maintain sufficient oxygen levels for microbial respiration, which is essential for breaking down organic pollutants .
Sludge Age and Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT)
Sludge age and hydraulic retention timmeters that influence microbial activity and treatment performance. Monitoring and adjusting these parameters can help maintain a healthy microbial population and ensure that the treatment process operates within its design parameters for optimal efficiency.
References:
1. Metcalf & Eddy, Inc. (2020).
2. R. & Leverenz, H.L. (2023).
3. Grady, C.P.L., et. al. (2022)
4. Seviour, T., et. al. (2010)
5. Wanner, J. (1998).