THE UNIVERISTY OF MINDANAO

Matina, Davao City

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING EDUCATION

CE ELECTIVE 3
WATER AND WASTE WATER ENGINEERING
Written Report
Code: 1378
12:30-1:30 PM
GROUP 6

Submitted by:
Dagohoy, Kim
Dano, Rogen
Enferto, Adrian
Elle, Jhulie Anne Marie
Gaentano, Crischelle Joy
Macabangkit, Nor-ain
Saycon, Jessa Mae

Submitted by:
Engr. Showna Lee T. Sales
 Purpose of Primary Sewage Treatment System

What is Primary Treatment?

Primary Treatment Wastewater is a plain sedimentation process to remove suspended

organic solids from the sewage. Chemical are sometimes use to remove finely divided
and colloidal solids.

Primary treatments include those processes that reduce the floating and suspended
solid present in the waste by mechanical means or by the action of gravity. Fine screens
and sedimentation tanks are commonly used in primary treatment processes. The raw
effluent will first flow through a manually operated bar screen chamber for the removal
of leaves, twigs, and larger size particles. Effluent also contains grease and oil, which
produce foul odor when discharged in water, and it is not easily digested in sludge
digestion tanks. These are removed in skimming tanks. From that, the effluent will flow
to a flocculation tank where lime will be added for pH correction. Aluminum sulfate
(alum) will also be added in flocculation tank to improve the settling nature of
suspended solids.
The settling process is assisted by the addition of chemical coagulants, which are
applied as components of various levels of wastewater treatment. Coagulants serve two
principal functions to assist in the coagulation and flocculation processes, in order to
maximize the removal of very small solid particles of various compositions. The primary
treatment units will generally remove 98-99% settable solids, 60-80% suspended
solids, and 30-50% of oxygen demand from the waste. Primary treatment in effect uses
the force of gravity to separate the raw wastewater into a water component and a
concentrated solid or a sludge component.

Primary treatment stage in sewage treatment process, this process takes place in a
sedimentation tank or a silt trap, which is usually located just before a constructed
treatment wetland. The objective of the sedimentation tank is to remove settle able
solids, and to reduce the suspended solids (SS) content of the sewage, thereby reducing
the BOD.
Primary treatment removes material that will either float or readily settle out
by gravity. It includes the physical processes of screening, comminution, grit removal,
and sedimentation. Screens are made of long, closely spaced, narrow metal bars. They
block floating debris such as wood, rags, and other bulky objects that could clog pipes or
pumps. In modern plants the screens are cleaned mechanically, and the material is
promptly disposed of by burial on the plant grounds. A comminutor may be used to
grind and shred debris that passes through the screens. The shredded material is
removed later by sedimentation or flotation processes. Grit chambers are long narrow
tanks that are designed to slow down the flow so that solids such as sand, coffee
grounds, and eggshells will settle out of the water. Grit causes excessive wear and tear
on pumps and other plant equipment. Its removal is particularly important in cities with
combined sewer systems, which carry a good deal of silt, sand, and gravel that wash off
streets or land during a storm.

Suspended solids that pass through screens and grit chambers are removed from the
sewage in sedimentation tanks. These tanks, also called primary clarifiers, provide
about two hours of detention time for gravity settling to take place. As the sewage flows
through them slowly, the solids gradually sink to the bottom. The settled solids known
as raw or primary sludge are moved along the tank bottom by mechanical scrapers.
Sludge is collected in a hopper, where it is pumped out for removal. Mechanical surface-
skimming devices remove grease and other floating materials.

Purpose of Primary Treatment

 to remove settable solids by 80% to 90%

 to reduce BOD by 30% to 35%
 to reduce the strength of sewage to the extent 30% to 50%
 to make the sewage fit for further treatment process

SEDIMENTATION

Primary treatment is often called clarification sedimentation or setting. A primary

sewage treatment process where the wastewater is allowed to settle for a period of time
in a setting tank and produce a somewhat clarified liquid effluent in one stream and a
liquid-solid sludge in a second steam.
1. Objectives of Primary Treatment of Wastewater

1. To produce a liquid effluent of suitably improved quality for the next treatment
stage (i.e.) secondary biological treatment.
2. To active a solids separation resulting in a primary sludge that can be
conveniently treated and disposed of.

2. Benefits of Primary Treatment

The benefits of primary treatment include

1. Reduction in suspension solids

2. Reduction in BOD
3. Reduction in the amount of waste activated sludge (WAS) in the activated-sludge
plant.
4. Removal of floating materials (oil and geese).

3.1.1 Rectangular Horizontal Flow Tanks

These are most commonly used for primary sedimentation, since they occupy less space
than circular tanks. They can be economically built side-by-side with common walls.
Rectangular sedimentation tanks are mostly preferred sedimentation tanks and are
used widely.
The maximum forward velocity to avoid the risk of scouring settled sludge is 10 to 15
mm/s (06 to 09m/min or 2 to 3 ft/ min), indicating that the ratio of length to width l/w
should referrals be about. Inlets should be baffled to dissipate the momentum of the
incoming flow and to assist in establishing uniform forward flow. Sludge is removed by
scraping it into collecting hoppers at the inlet end of the tank.
Circular Radial Flow Tanks

These are used for primary sedimentation because careful design of the inlet stilling
well is needed to active a stable radial flow pattern without causing excessive
turbulence in the vicinity of the central sludge hopper. The weir length aroid the
perimeter of the tank is usually sufficient to give a sates factory weir loading rate at
maximum flow, but at low flows, very low flow depths may result. Sludge removal is
effected by means of a rotary sludge scrapper who moves the sludge into a central
hopper, from which it is with drown. Scum removal is carried out by surface skimming
board attached to the sludge scrapper mechanism and positioned so that scum is moved
towards a collecting hopper at the surface.

Up Flow Tanks:
In up flow tank, a deflector box is located at the top which deflects the influent coming
from central pipe to downwards. Their main advantage is that sludge removal is cared
out entirely by activity and no mechanical parts are required for cleaning them. The
steeply sloping sides usually to horizontal concentrate the sludge at the bottom of the
hopper
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

1. Number of Units

Multiple primary sedimentation tanks capable of independent operation are desirable

and should be provided in all plants where design average daily flows exceed
380 m3/d (0.1 mUSgd). Plants not having multiple units should include other provisions
to assure continuity of treatment to meet the final effluent quality criteria.

2. Flow Distribution

Effective flow splitting devices and control appurtenances (i.e., gates and splitter boxes)
need to be provided to permit proper proportioning of flow and solids loading to each
unit, throughout the expected range of flows. (Section 3.13.2 - Flow Distribution and
Section 8.5.8 - Flows and Organic Loadings Distribution.)

3. Dimensions

It is recommended that the minimum length from the inlet to the outlet be 3 m (10 ft)
unless special provisions are made to prevent flow short-circuiting. The side water
depth (SWD) should be designed to provide an adequate separation zone between the
sludge blanket and the overflow weirs. Generally, primary sedimentation tanks have
a SWD from 3.0 to 4.6 m (10 to 15 ft).

4. Surface Overflow Rates

Primary sedimentation tank sizing should reflect the degree of solids removal required
and the need to avoid septic conditions during low flow periods. The primary
sedimentation tanks surface overflow rates (SOR). It is recommended that sizing be
calculated for both design average daily flow and design peak daily flow conditions and
the larger surface area determined to be used.

5. Inlet Structures

Inlets and baffling should be designed to dissipate the inlet velocity, to distribute the
flow equally both horizontally and vertically, to protect the sludge hopper and to
prevent short-circuiting. It is recommended that channels be designed to maintain a
velocity of at least 0.3 m/s (1 ft/s) at one-half of the design average daily flow. It is
recommended that corner pockets and dead zones be eliminated and corner fillets or
channeling be used where necessary. Provisions should be made for elimination or
removal of floating materials which may accumulate in inlet structures.
6. Weirs

Overflow weirs should be readily adjustable over the life of the structure to correct for
differential settlement of the tank. Overflow weirs should be located to optimize actual
hydraulic detention time and minimize short-circuiting. It is recommended that
peripheral weirs be placed at least 0.3 m (1 ft) from the wall.

7. Submerged Surface

The tops of troughs, beams and similar submerged construction elements should have a
minimum slope of 1.4 vertical to 1 horizontal; the underside of such elements should
have a slope of 1 to 1 to prevent the accumulation of scum and solids.

8. Freeboard

It is recommended that the walls of primary sedimentation tanks extend at least

150 mm (6 in) above the surrounding ground surface and provide not less than
300 mm (12 in) freeboard. Additional freeboard or the use of wind screens is
recommended where larger primary sedimentation tanks are subject to high velocity
wind currents that would cause tank surface waves and inhibit effective scum removal.

9. Sludge and Scum Removal

Scum Removal

Full-surface mechanical scum collection and removal facilities, including baffling, should
be provided for all primary sedimentation tanks. The characteristics of scum, which
may adversely affect pumping, piping, sludge handling and disposal, need to be
recognized in design. Scum pits may require heating to avoid freezing problems and
consideration should be given to mixers. Provisions should be made to remove scum
from the sewage treatment process and direct it to either the sludge treatment process
or an alternative treatment and disposal process. Scum treatment can be provided by
digestion, but this can lead to problems in the digesters.

Smooth-walled pipe should be used for scum lines to minimize grease buildup.

Glass-lined pipe is recommended for scum piping.

Scum lines should be provided with clean outs or steam injection points to minimize
blockage due to grease buildup.

Sludge Removal
Mechanical sludge collection and withdrawal facilities should be designed to ensure
rapid removal of sludge.

Each sedimentation tank should have its own sludge withdrawal line to ensure
adequate control of sludge removal rate for each tank. Sludge removal needs to be
adequate to handle the expected maximum sludge accumulation rate and avoid
excessive blanket levels.

SEPTIC TANK

A septic tank is a chamber made of concrete, fiberglass, PVC or plastic, through

which domestic wastewater (sewage) flows for primary treatmentsettling and
anaerobic processes reduce solids and organics, but the treatment is only
moderate.Septic tank systems are a type of onsite sewage facility (OSSF). They can be
used in areas that are not connected to a sewerage system, such as rural areas. The
treated liquid effluent is commonly disposed in a septic drain field, which provides
further treatment. However, groundwater pollution may occur and can be a
problem.The term "septic" refers to the anaerobic bacterial environment that develops
in the tank, which decomposes or mineralizes the waste discharged into the tank. Septic
tanks can be coupled with other onsite wastewater treatment units such as biofilters or
aerobic systems involving artificially forced aeration.The rate of accumulation of sludge
also called septage or fecal sludgeis faster than the rate of decomposition. Therefore, the
accumulated fecal sludge must be periodically removed which is commonly done with a
vacuum truck.Every community should have a way of disposing of sewage so that
people, animals and flies cannot touch it. This is called a sewage system.

There are two basic septic system types:

-Conventional System

-Alternative System

Conventional System

Gravity System - Basic or standard system, uses gravity to move effluent through the
septic tank and into the drain field.
Pressure Distribution System- Has a pump, which distributes effluent throughout the
drain field at the same time. Used in most new systems because it makes better use of
the entire drain field.

Alternative Systems
Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) - Uses oxygen to break down solids, producing cleaner
wastewater than conventional types. Often used in environmentally sensitive areas
where effluent requires more treatment before entering the drain field.

Mound System - Installed when minimal soil is available for treatment, drain field is
raised above ground level.

Sand Filter System - Has a sand filtering system and pump to treat and disburse
effluent, used when minimal soil is available for treatment.

Different types of sewage system:

- On site disposal system
- Effluent (wastewater) disposal system
- Full sewage system

On-site disposal systems

All the liquid waste from the toilet, bathroom, laundry and sink goes into pipes which
carry it to a septic tank. The effluent from the tank is then disposed of through effluent
disposal drains often referred to as leach or French drains. Both of these methods of
disposing of liquid waste are on-site disposal systems. They must be installed and
maintained properly.

In these systems, the effluent is soaked into the surrounding soil. Some soils don't allow
good soakage such as clay or similar soils; if there are any problems with this disposal
system a local government EHO should be consulted to talk about the problem.

Fig. 2.30: Plan view (top) of an on-site sewage disposal system.

 On-site disposal systems cannot be installed in all situations. For example, they cannot
be installed:

 in areas that flood regularly

 in areas that have a high water table (that is, where the underground water is close to
the surface)
 where the amount of wastewater to be disposed of is large
 near to drinking water supplies

Effluent (wastewater) disposal system

In this method the effluent from the community is carried by large pipes to the lagoon.
These pipes serve all the houses and other buildings in the community. The sewage may
be either be treated in septic tanks at the houses or buildings or at the lagoon. There are
no leach or French drains.

Fig. 2.31: Plan view of a wastewater disposal system.

Full sewage system

All the sewage from the toilet, shower, laundry and other areas enters waste and sewer
pipes directly and is pumped to a lagoon.

 There are three types of full sewage system:

 The sewage enters the lagoon without treatment
 The sewage goes through a series of cutting blades which help break up the solid matter
before it enters the lagoon. These blades are called macerators.
 Fig. 2.32: Plan view of full sewage system and macerators.

 The sewage may be treated in a large septic tank just before it enters the lagoon.

Fig. 2.33: Plan view of a full sewage system with a large septic tank.

Maintenance:

Like any system, a septic system requires maintenance. The maintenance of a septic
system is often the responsibility of the resident or property owner. Some forms of
abuse or neglect include the following:

User's actions

 Excessive disposal of cooking oils and grease can cause the inlet drains to
block. Oils and grease are often difficult to degrade and can cause odor
problems and difficulties with the periodic emptying.
 Flushing non-biodegradable waste items down the toilet such as cigarette
butts, cotton buds/swabs or menstrual hygiene products and condoms can
cause a septic tank to clog and fill rapidly, so these materials should not be
disposed of in that manner. The same applies when the toilet is connected to
a sewer rather than a septic tank.
 Using the toilet for disposal of food waste can cause a rapid overload of the
system with solids and contribute to failure.
 Certain chemicals may damage the components of a septic tank or kill the
bacteria needed in the septic tank for the system to operate properly, such as
 pesticides, herbicides, materials with high concentrations of bleach or caustic
soda (lye), or any other inorganic materials such as paints or solvents.
 Using water softeners - the brine discharge from water softeners may harm
the bacteria responsible for breaking down the wastewater. Usually the brine
is however sufficiently diluted with other wastewater that it does not
adversely affect the septic system.

Septic tank additives

Further information: Pit additives

Septic tank additives have been promoted by some manufacturers with the aim to
improve the effluent quality from septic tanks, reduce sludge build-up and to reduce
odors. However, these additives—which are commonly based on "effective
microorganisms"—are usually costly in the longer term and fail to live up to
expectations. It has been estimated that in the U.S. more than 1,200 septic system
additives were available on the market in 2011.However, very little peer-reviewed and
replicated field research exists regarding the efficacy of these biological septic tank
additives.

SEPTIC DESIGN

Effluent — Bacteria and Nutrients The liquid faction that leaves the septic tank and
enters the drainfield is called the effluent. The bacterial level of the effluent is quite high,
contrary to popular belief. The effluent also contains nitrates (among other nutrients),
which move downward. To reduce potential for groundwater contamination by the
effluent, many areas restrict building lot sizes.

Percolation Test
1.) To conduct a percolation test, dig several straight-sided holes (with a hole digger or
auger) at least 4 inches in diameter down to the drainfield level in the area to be used
for the drainfield.
2.) Roughen or scratch any slick clay or compacted soil in the bottom or sides of the
holes by scraping lightly.
3.) Remove loose material and add two inches of fine gravel to each hole.
4.) Put water into the holes and saturate the soil, allowing time for clay to swell.
5.) All soils except sands must be soaked at least four hours before percolation test
results are analyzed. After soaking, add six inches of water over the gravel and select a
fixed point at ground level where repeated measurements can be made.
6.) Use the same time interval between measurements and record the settling distance
over the time interval.
7.) Add water if the depth of the water over the gravel falls below two inches.
8.) Take measurements at approximately the same time intervals until a constant rate of
percolation is found. The time in minutes required for the water to drop one inch is the
percolation rate in minutes per inch (see Table 1).
9.) Boring to determine ground water elevation in low areas may be required by the
county health department. In suchcases, bore to a depth of six feet and provide
sufficient time for the water level to stabilize. Sufficient time may mean overnight for
clay soils and no less than 30 minutes in sandy soil.

Location and Dimensions- Drainfields should be at least 100 feet from the closest well
or spring, at least 10 feet from water supply lines, and not closer than 50 feet to a pond
or stream. Drainfield trenches should normally be level and not less than 25 inches or
more than 36 inches in depth. In rare cases, trenches will be deeper and filled with
several feet of gravel to obtain acceptable percolation. The tile drain must have at least
12 inches of soil over the tile. The aggregate should be a minimum of six inches deep
under the drain tile. The drainfield trenches should not exceed 36 inches in width.

Septic Tank Capacity- Septic tanks must provide at least 24hour retention time or at
least 750 gallons for a one- or two- bedroom house, 900 gallons for a three-bedroom
house and 1,000 gallons for a four-bedroom house. Add 250 gallons for each bedroom
exceeding four. Septic tanks must have access openings over inlet and outlet baffles.
Access location should be marked and visible for easy inspection.

Selecting A Site
• Stay at least 100 feet from drinking water sources, 50 feet from streams or ponds and
10 feet from water lines.
• Slope drainfields away from houses, buildings and the water supply.
• Keep drainfields unshaded and free from trees and shrubbery.
• Allow sufficient space to enlarge the drainfield if it becomes necessary.
• Keep septic tanks or drainfields uncovered by driveways or concrete.
• Locate septic tanks and drainfields away from drainage areas and waterways.
• Never use an open flame or matches to inspect a septic tank. Sewer gases may explode
violently.

SEPTIC TANK

A septic tank is a chamber made of concrete, fiberglass, PVC or plastic, through

which domestic wastewater (sewage) flows for primary treatment settling and
anaerobic processes reduce solids and organics. They can be used in areas that are not
connected to a sewerage system, such as rural areas.The term "septic" refers to the
anaerobic bacterial environment that develops in the tank, which decomposes or
mineralizes the waste discharged into the tank. Therefore, the accumulated fecal sludge
must be periodically removed which is commonly done with a vacuum.

SEPTIC DESIGN

Effluent
Bacteria and Nutrients The liquid faction that leaves the septic tank and enters
the drainfield is called the effluent. The bacterial level of the effluent is quite high,
contrary to popular belief. The effluent also contains nitrates (among other nutrients),
which move downward. To reduce potential for groundwater contamination by the
effluent, many areas restrict building lot sizes.
There are two basic septic system types:

-Conventional System

-Alternative System

Conventional Systems

Gravity System - Basic or standard system, uses gravity to move effluent through the
septic tank and into the drain field.

Pressure Distribution System- Has a pump, which distributes effluent throughout the
drain field at the same time. Used in most new systems because it makes better use of
the entire drain field.

Alternative Systems

Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) - Uses oxygen to break down solids, producing cleaner
wastewater than conventional types. Often used in environmentally sensitive areas
where effluent requires more treatment before entering the drain field.

Mound System - Installed when minimal soil is available for treatment, drain field is
raised above ground level.

Sand Filter System - Has a sand filtering system and pump to treat and disburse
effluent, used when minimal soil is available for treatment.

Different types of sewage system:

- On site disposal system
- Effluent (wastewater) disposal system
- Full sewage system

On-site disposal systems

All the liquid waste from the toilet, bathroom, laundry and sink goes into pipes which
carry it to a septic tank. The effluent from the tank is then disposed of through effluent
disposal drains often referred to as leach or French drains. Both of these methods of
disposing of liquid waste are on-site disposal systems. They must be installed and
maintained properly.

In these systems, the effluent is soaked into the surrounding soil. Some soils don't allow
 good soakage such as clay or similar soils; if there are any problems with this disposal
system a local government EHO should be consulted to talk about the problem.

On-site disposal systems

cannot be installed in
all situations. For example, they cannot be installed:

 in areas that flood regularly

 in areas that have a high water table (that is, where the underground water is close to
the surface)
 where the amount of wastewater to be disposed of is large
 near to drinking water supplies

Effluent (wastewater) disposal system

In this method the effluent from the community is carried by large pipes to the lagoon.
These pipes serve all the houses and other buildings in the community. The sewage may
be either be treated in septic tanks at the houses or buildings or at the lagoon. There are
no leach or French drains.

Plan view of a wastewater disposal system

Full sewage system

All the sewage from the toilet, shower, laundry and other areas enters waste and sewer
pipes directly and is pumped to a lagoon.

 There are three types of full sewage system:

 The sewage enters the lagoon without treatment
 The sewage goes through a series of cutting blades which help break up the solid matter
before it enters the lagoon. These blades are called macerators.

Plan view of full sewage system and macerators.

 The sewage may be treated in a large septic tank just before it enters the lagoon.

Plan view of a full sewage system with a large septic tank.

Maintenance:

Like any system, a septic system requires maintenance. The maintenance of a septic
system is often the responsibility of the resident or property owner. Some forms of
abuse or neglect include the following:

User's actions

 Excessive disposal of cooking oils and grease can cause the inlet drains to
block. Oils and grease are often difficult to degrade and can cause odor
problems and difficulties with the periodic emptying.
 Flushing non-biodegradable waste items down the toilet such as cigarette
butts, cotton buds/swabs or menstrual hygiene products and condoms can
cause a septic tank to clog and fill rapidly, so these materials should not be
disposed of in that manner. The same applies when the toilet is connected to
a sewer rather than a septic tank.
 Using the toilet for disposal of food waste can cause a rapid overload of the
system with solids and contribute to failure.

Other factors:

 Roots from trees and shrubbery protruding above the tank or drainfield may clog
and/or rupture them. Trees that are directly within the vicinity of a concrete
 septic tank have the potential to penetrate the tank as the system ages and the
concrete begins to develop cracks and small leaks. Tree roots can cause serious
flow problems due to plugging and blockage of drain pipes, added to which the
trees themselves tend to expand extremely vigorously due to the ready supply of
nutrients from the septic system.
 Playgrounds and storage buildings may cause damage to a tank and the drainage
field. In addition, covering the drainage field with an impermeable surface, such
as a driveway or parking area, will seriously affect its efficiency and possibly
damage the tank and absorption system.
 Excessive water entering the system may overload it and cause it to fail.


Percolation Test
1.) To conduct a percolation test, dig several straight-sided holes (with a hole digger or
auger) at least 4 inches in diameter down to the drainfield level in the area to be used
for the drainfield.
2.) Roughen or scratch any slick clay or compacted soil in the bottom or sides of the
holes by scraping lightly.
3.) Remove loose material and add two inches of fine gravel to each hole.
4.) Put water into the holes and saturate the soil, allowing time for clay to swell.
5.) All soils except sands must be soaked at least four hours before percolation test
results are analyzed. After soaking, add six inches of water over the gravel and select a
fixed point at ground level where repeated measurements can be made.
6.) Use the same time interval between measurements and record the settling distance
over the time interval.
7.) Add water if the depth of the water over the gravel falls below two inches.
8.) Take measurements at approximately the same time intervals until a constant rate of
percolation is found. The time in minutes required for the water to drop one inch is the
percolation rate in minutes per inch (see Table 1).
9.) Boring to determine ground water elevation in low areas may be required by the
county health department. In suchcases, bore to a depth of six feet and provide
sufficient time for the water level to stabilize. Sufficient time may mean overnight for
clay soils and no less than 30 minutes in sandy soil.
How to Construct Drainfields
• Using the percolation rate and Table 1, find the trench bottom area required per
bedroom. Multiply this by the number of bedrooms to get the total trench bottom area.
Decide on the trench bottom width (not to exceed 36 inches) and then deter-mine the
total drainfield length (no one trench can exceed 100 feet).
• Drive stakes to mark the position of the trenches on the contour. A builder’s level is
helpful but not essential. Drive grade stakes and attach a board by using a good
carpenter’s level.
• Use a distribution box to distribute effluent to the drainfield. Drop boxes are also used
in some states, but are not commonly used in Georgia.
• Use serial distribution if the terrain is hilly. The drainfield lines should be at least eight
feet apart.
• The distribution box method can be used on level or sloping terrain and is required in
Georgia when dosing tanks are used. A firm earthen or concrete foundation extending at
least 12 inches beyond the box walls is required to ensure against tilting of the box. Care
is required when backfilling over and around the box. The top of the box must have a
minimum of six inches of soil over the top, but no more than 24 inches unless ready
access is provided. The sewer line from the septic tank or dosing tank enters the
distribution box and terminates in a downward turned elbow.
Selecting A Site
• Stay at least 100 feet from drinking water sources, 50 feet from streams or ponds and
10 feet from water lines.
• Slope drainfields away from houses, buildings and the water supply.
• Keep drainfields unshaded and free from trees and shrubbery.
• Allow sufficient space to enlarge the drainfield if it becomes necessary.
• Keep septic tanks or drainfields uncovered by driveways or concrete.
• Locate septic tanks and drainfields away from drainage areas and waterways.
• Never use an open flame or matches to inspect a septic tank. Sewer gases may explode
violently.
Location and Dimensions
Drainfields should be at least 100 feet from the closest well or spring, at least 10
feet from water supply lines, and not closer than 50 feet to a pond or stream. Drainfield
trenches should normally be level and not less than 25 inches or more than 36 inches in
depth. In rare cases, trenches will be deeper and filled with several feet of gravel to
obtain acceptable percolation. The tile drain must have at least 12 inches of soil over the
tile. The aggregate should be a minimum of six inches deep under the drain tile. The
drainfield trenches should not exceed 36 inches in width.

Septic Tank Capacity

Septic tanks must provide at least 24hour retention time or at least 750 gallons
for a one- or two- bedroom house, 900 gallons for a three-bedroom house and 1,000
gallons for a four-bedroom house. Add 250 gallons for each bedroom exceeding four.
Septic tanks must have access openings over inlet and outlet baffles. Access location
should be marked and visible for easy inspection.

Conclusions
Properly designed and installed septic tanks can function for many years. Annual
inspection to determine sludge depth is desirable to prevent tank solids from
overflowing and sealing the soil in the drainfield. Minimize the amount of grease from
the kitchen and garbage disposal solids going into septic tank. Water conservation
reduces the loading and saturation of the drainfield.

PURPOSE OF SECONDARY SEWAGE TREATMENT

Secondary treatment of sewage and other wastewater is the stage of wastewater

treatment designed to substantially degrade the biological content of the sewage. This
usually uses biological processes. Municipal and industrial plants usually
use aerobic biological processes.
Brief history

In response to the escalating pollution of natural bodies of water, the Federal

Government passed the Clean Water Act in 1972. This act required that wastewater
treatment plants operate with a secondary treatment system. The systems are designed
to remove pollutants that generally would be released into a natural body of water, such
as, lakes, rivers, and bays.

Purpose
Once wastewater has gone through the Primary treatment stage the Effluent will
undergo a secondary treatment in order to remove both small suspended solids and
BOD5 (five day biochemical oxygen demand) that pass through the primary treatment
stage. All secondary treatment systems use a biological process to break down organic
matter.
Microorganisms such as bacteria and protozoa can use the small particles and dissolved
organic matter, not removed in primary treatment, as food. Secondary or biological
treatment is performed in a tank containing a "soup" of starved microbes called
activated sludge.
Microorganisms are introduced to the wastewater and consume the organic matter.
Like us, these microbes require air to live (they are aerobic organisms) and thus air is
pumped into the tank. Oxygen is delivered to the system ensuring microorganism
survival. Oxygen delivery differs among the various systems. This biological process
occurs naturally in nature, but is accelerated in secondary treatment systems. Typically
85% of BOD and suspended solids are removed during this process.
Microorganisms in this aeration tank use the dissolved and particulate organic matter
as food, producing more microorganisms. Thus the waste materials that left the primary
clarifier are changed into microorganisms which can be collected and separated from
the water in the next step.
Water exiting secondary treatment will still carry nitrogen, phosphorus, heavy
metals, Pathogens, and bacteria. For further removal of pollutants the water is
transported to a tertiary treatment system and disinfection. There are a variety of
secondary treatment processes; the following are conventional processes used by
treatment plants: Activated sludge, Trickling filter, Non-electric secondary filtration
(FilterPod), Oxidation ponds.
There are pros and cons to each of these three processes. Operational and initial costs
along with space are three factors that will often determine which technique is
appropriate. Space is influenced by population size and cost of land. For example,
oxidation ponds require large areas of land if land is costly or needed for housing
oxidation ponds are not a likely option. Additionally wastewater treatment plants need
to consider maintenance, reliability, and effectiveness of the system.

Secondary wastewater treatment

Secondary wastewater treatment is a biological process done either by aerobic digestion

which include processes such as trickling filters, RBC, aerobic granulation or anaerobic
processes such as constructed wetlands, aerated lagoon and membrane bio reactor.

Some secondary treatment methods include a secondary clarifier to settle out and
separate biological floc or filter material grown in the secondary treatment bioreactor.

List of alternative secondary treatment methods:

 Activated Sludge
 Aerated Lagoon
 Aerobic Granulation
 Constructed Wetland
 Membrane Bioreactor
 Rotating Biological contactor
 Trickling Filter

Activated Sludge

Activated sludge is a process for treating sewage and industrial wastewaters using
air and a biological floc composed of bacteria and protozoa. Activated Sludge is a multi-
chamber reactor unit that makes use of (mostly) aerobic microorganisms to degrade
organics in wastewater and to produce a high-quality effluent. To maintain aerobic
conditions and to the keep the active biomass suspended, a constant and well-timed
supply of oxygen is required. Activated sludge systemsnormally make use of bar screens
and/or comminutors, grit chambers, primary settling tanks, secondary settling tanks, and
digesters, which are operated in the same manner as those of trickling filter systems.
They differ from the trickling filter systems in that they make use of an aeration tank
instead of a trickling filter.

Compressed air is continually diffused into the sewage as it flows through the
aeration tank. This provides both a source of oxygen for the aerobic bacterial floc that
forms in the tank and the turbulence necessary to bring the waste and the bacteria into
contact. Aerobic bacteria attack the dissolved and finely divided suspended solids not
removed by primary sedimentation. Some of the floc is removed with the sewage that
flows out of the aeration tank and carried into the secondary settling tank. Here the floc
settles to the bottom of the tank, and is later pumped back into the aeration tank. The
liquid portion then flows over a weir at the surface of the settling tank to be chlorinated
and released to a receiving stream.

Aerated Lagoon

Sewage oxidation ponds (Aerated lagoons) offer economical secondary sewage

treatment with relatively low initial cost. These ponds are 0.8–1.2 m in depth, and may
be used singly, in parallel, or in a series following primary treatment. Their use is
particularly suited to locations with available land and warm climates. Their ability to
absorb shock loads and ease of operation and maintenance make them desirable
treatment units. Biological life in ponds use the organic and mineral matter in the sewage
for food to produce more stable products. The products often stimulate abundant growth
of algae and other vegetation. Solution of oxygen from the atmosphere, and the ability of
vegetation to produce oxygen when exposed to sunlight, help maintain aerobic
conditions. The lagoons will develop an odor similar to freshwater ponds in wooded
areas. Allowable loading can vary from 125–2000 persons per hectare depending upon
the location. Where complete treatment is to be provided by ponding, the cells are known
as raw sewage lagoons, with depths of 1–1.5 m and reduced loading.
Aerobic Granulation

Aerobic granules were discovered around 20 years back. These are spherical
aggregates of mixed microbial culture, typically around 0.5–3 mm in diameter. Aerobic
granules require active microorganisms for growth and maintenance, which stem from
seeding activated sludge. No carrier material is involved in the process as the granules
aggregate without such a requirement.

The formation of aerobic granular sludge is encouraged during the aeration

phase, which induces a hydrodynamic shear force between particles. During the settling
phase where hydrodynamic shear is reduced, aerobic granules do not coagulate or settle
as separate units such as activated sludge flocs. However, they emerge as a collected
combination of sludge flocs and other various microorganisms in a more dense and
spherical form. Shear force is an important factor for the formation of dense aggregates
(de Kreuk, 2006, p.15) .

Advantage:

Stability and flexibility

Low energy requirements

Reduced footprint

Good biomass retention

Presence of aerobic and anoxic zones inside the granules:

Reduced investment and operational costs:

Disadvantage:

Require large area

Deal with large number of conversion processes

Require separate tank for clean effluent

Sludge’s from municipal Wastewater treatment Plant need different Steps to dewater
before processed.

Constructed Wetland

The constructed wetland is a basin or cell containing microorganisms, media, and

plants that provide treatment of incoming effluent. In subsurface flow wetlands, the cell
is filled with graded gravel media or other porous material that is resistant to the
corrosive and dissolving properties of wastewater.

The wetland cell is generally an earthen basin lined with compacted native clay,
bentonite clay, concrete, and PVC, hypalon, or ethylene propylene diene terpolymer
(EPDM) rubber. The plants used in the wetland must be able to survive in a saturated
medium. Both soft tissue and hard tissue plants can be used in the wetland. However,
some experts believe that hard tissue plants are better, because they may provide a
pathway for oxygen to enter the wetland during the winter months.

Membrane Bioreactor

Typical schematic for membrane bioreactor system. Source: FITZGERALD (2008)

Membrane Bioreactors combine conventional biological treatment (e.g. activated sludge)
processes with membrane filtration to provide an advanced level of organic and
suspended solids removal. When designed accordingly, these systems can also provide
an advanced level of nutrient removal. In an MBR system, the membranes are submerged
in an aerated biological reactor. The membranes have porosities ranging from 0.035
microns to 0.4 microns (depending on the manufacturer), which is considered between
micro and ultrafiltration.

This level of filtration allows for high quality effluent to be drawn through the membranes
and eliminates the sedimentation and filtration processes typically used for wastewater
treatment. Because the need for sedimentation is eliminated, the biological process can
operate at a much higher mixed liquor concentration. This dramatically reduces the
process tankage required and allows many existing plants to be upgraded without adding
new tanks. To provide optimal aeration and scour around the membranes, the mixed
liquor is typically kept in the 1.0-1.2% solids range, which is 4 times that of a conventional
plant.

Rotating Biological contactor

Rotating biological contactor systems (refer figures 2–13, 2–14 and 2–15)
normally make use of bar screens and/or comminutors, grit chambers, primary settling
tanks, secondary tanks, and digesters, which are operated in the same manner as those
of trickling filter systems. The rotating biological contactor (RBC) is a simple, effective
method of providing secondary wastewater treatment. The system consists of biomass
media, usually plastic, that is partially immersed in the wastewater. As it slowly rotates,
it lifts a film of wastewater into the air. The wastewater trickles down across the media
and absorbs oxygen from the air. A living biomass of bacteria, protozoa, and other simple
organisms attaches and grows on the biomass media. The organisms then remove both
dissolved oxygen and organic material from the trickling film of wastewater. Any excess
biomass is sloughed-off as the media is rotated through the wastewater. This prevents
clogging of the media surface and maintains a constant microorganism population. The
sloughed-off material is removed from the clear water by conventional clarification. The
RBC rotates at a speed of one to two rpm and provides a high degree of organic removal.

Trickling Filter

A trickling filter or biofilter consists of a basin or tower filled with support media
such as stones, plastic shapes, or wooden slats. Wastewater is applied intermittently, or
sometimes continuously, over the media. Microorganisms become attached to the media
and form a biological layer or fixed film. Organic matter in the wastewater diffuses into
the film, where it is metabolized. Oxygen is normally supplied to the film by the natural
flow of air either up or down through the media, depending on the relative
temperatures of the wastewater and ambient air. Forced air can also be supplied by
blowers but this is rarely necessary. The thickness of the biofilm increases as new
organisms grow. Periodically, portions of the film 'slough off the media. The sloughed
material is separated from the liquid in a secondary clarifier and discharged to sludge
processing. Clarified liquid from the secondary clarifier is the secondary effluent and a
portion is often recycled to the biofilter to improve hydraulic distribution of the
wastewater over the filter.

4 Major Operational Challenges Facing Wastewater Treatment Plants

Operational efficiency is always of utmost importance in treatment facilities and

this has driven innovation in the sector for quite some time. Recently, great advances
have been made in the development of efficient technologies but challenges still
remain.

Energy Consumption

Energy consumption is one of the largest expenses in operating a wastewater

treatment plant. Wastewater treatment is estimated to consume 2 - 3% of a
developed nation’s electrical power, or approximately 60 tWh (terawatt hours) per
year. In municipal wastewater treatment, the largest proportion of energy is used in
biological treatment, generally in the range of 50 - 60% of plant usage.
Staff

Operators of wastewater treatment facilities must be adequately trained and

certified individuals. They are on call 24 hours a day and are responsible for overseeing
everything from pipe leaks and valves to electrical and instrumentation equipment. This
work becomes especially demanding during changes in influent and seasonal changes.

Sludge Production

Sludge is the residue generated during physical, chemical and biological

treatment. A major environmental challenge for wastewater treatment is the disposal
of excess sludge produced during the process.

Footprint

Activated sludge treatment has many challenges - one of the biggest being the
footprint it demands. Activated sludge plants are costly to construct and occupy
substantial land areas. Primary and Secondary processes rely upon vast tracts of land
for large and costly settling tanks and aeration basins. Due to populations constantly
increasing, municipal wastewater treatment plants need to expand their capabilities
too!

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