Implementation of storage tanks on the COST 624 benchmark

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Water Treatment Technologies
• Wastewater Management

Background:

• Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) face challenges in maintaining effluent quality due to influent variations.
• Activated sludge processes are a common method for biological wastewater treatment.
• Control strategies are essential for optimizing WWTP performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of an equalization tank and a storm tank on WWTP effluent quality.
• To assess the performance of these tanks under various weather conditions.
• To determine the operational costs associated with implementing these tanks.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of an equalization tank and a storm tank before a benchmark WWTP.
• Testing the system under different weather conditions to simulate influent variations.
• Evaluation of effluent quality and operational costs.

Main Results:

• The equalization tank significantly improved effluent quality across all weather conditions.
• The storm tank enhanced effluent quality, particularly during rainy periods.
• The equalization tank incurred high operational costs due to additional pumping.
• The storm tank presented a small increase in operational costs compared to no tank implementation.

Conclusions:

• Both equalization and storm tanks can improve wastewater treatment plant effluent quality.
• The choice of tank depends on balancing effluent quality improvements with operational costs and specific weather patterns.
• Storm tanks offer a cost-effective solution for improving effluent quality during wet weather events.