Open-channel UV disinfection at two municipal wastewater plants (20,000 m3/d combined) in China

This case study describes the open-channel ultraviolet (UV) disinfection systems installed at two municipal wastewater treatment plants in China, treating 5,000 m3/d and 15,000 m3/d respectively (20,000 m3/d combined), commissioned in 2019.

Design inputs: UV transmittance (UVT) and suspended solids (TSS) of the filtered effluent were the key inputs for module selection and lamp count. Channel dimensions and available headloss constrained the hydraulic layout.

Installed configuration: the two plants use a total of 12 open-channel UV modules with 76 low-pressure high-output (320 W) lamps. Each channel is equipped with automatic pneumatic sleeve wiping to keep quartz sleeves clean between maintenance windows.

Monitoring and control: UV intensity sensors and water-level sensors feed a PLC/HMI control system, which adjusts operation to the actual hydraulic and dose conditions instead of fixed step logic.

Outcome: both systems passed acceptance testing and remain in operation. The plants were designed to meet the local Class 1A discharge requirement applicable to the original project.

Full project details and installation photographs: https://www.konchewater.com/cases/open-channel-uv-municipal-wastewater-china

Questions on open-channel UV design for similar plant sizes are welcome in the comments.

Contact link: https://www.konchewater.com/cases/open-channel-uv-municipal-wastewater-china