The Operator's Guide to Monitoring Secondary Clarifier Performance
Author: Buhr, Heinrich O.1
Source: Water Practice, Volume 2, Number 4, June 2008 , pp. 1-19(19)
Publisher: Water Environment Federation
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Abstract:
The State Point Analysis (SPA) procedure provides exceptional insight into the expected performance of activated sludge secondary sedimentation basins. Yet, the operating guidance offered by the SPA is not applied regularly and with confidence - particularly in day-to-day operations. Such lack of use may stem from the perceived complexity of the procedure, including the (unnecessary) need to perform graphical constructions. The paper seeks to encourage the application of SPA principles by presenting straightforward algebraic and spreadsheet calculations for assessing the risks of clarification or thickening failure in clarifiers. Clarifier performance is monitored by evaluating a Clarification Safety Factor, based on comparing the observed settling velocity of the sludge with the overflow rate in the clarifiers. Similarly, a calculated Thickening Safety Factor provides warning of impending process limitations due to deteriorating settleability or limited return sludge pumping capacity. The mathematical background is summarized and step-by-step calculations are detailed in the paper.Keywords: SECONDARY CLARIFIERS; STATE POINT ANALYSIS; SETTLEABILITY; SETTLING; CLARIFICATION; THICKENING
Document Type: Research article
DOI: 10.2175/193317708X339349
Affiliations: 1: Carollo Engineers, 10540 Talbert Ave., Fountain Valley, CA
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