Challenge

Aquatreat was quick to respond to a long-standing client who contacted them regarding a failing consent notification at an established sewage treatment works.

An uplift in local housing developments was causing a significant increase in load (COD, BOD and ammonia), coupled with a reduction in aerator brush performance, resulting in a breach of the effluent consent for ammonia levels within the oxidation ditch. The client urgently needed remedial action whilst maintaining low operating costs.

An oxidation ditch is typically equipped with aerators or brushes to provide aeration and circulation. It is used to remove organic matter and pollutants from sewage through absorption, oxidation and decomposition. When working effectively and efficiently, the oxidation ditch can significantly reduce operating costs.

Solution

During an initial site visit, Aquatreat ran calculations based on flows, loads and existing plant capacity including installed aeration capacity. This allowed them to evaluate shortfalls in BOD and ammonia treatment capacity and determine the size and specifications for an effective temporary aeration system. From a comprehensive hire fleet, Aquatreat immediately supplied a high-efficiency fine bubble aeration system including blower, drop-in grids and interconnecting pipework. The equipment was installed without interrupting the ongoing operation of the struggling treatment plant.

The new equipment resulted in immediate effluent consent compliance which was monitored closely for the next two months. Following the success of such a robust solution, the client requested the design, supply and installation of a permanent system.

In collaboration with the client, Aquatreat was able to complete the project seamlessly, without the need for any of the existing plant to be taken off-line.

About Aquatreat

Aquatreat Environmental Products has been successfully providing water, wastewater and effluent treatment solutions since 2007. Often, emergencies can occur which require immediate and effective action. By utilising the experience of a team of highly-skilled engineers, the company offers rapid-response solutions from laboratory testing and CAD design, through to professional installation and final commissioning.