A process-dependent real-time controller for sequencing batch reactor plants: results of full-scale operation

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Water Treatment Technologies
• Process Control

Background:

• Sequencing Batch Reactors (SBRs) are widely used for wastewater treatment.
• Optimizing SBR performance requires effective real-time control strategies.
• Existing control methods may limit treatment capacity and nutrient removal efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a process-dependent real-time control (RTC) strategy for a full-scale sequencing batch reactor (SBR) plant.
• To assess the impact of the RTC strategy on treatment capacity and effluent quality.

Main Methods:

• Development and implementation of a full-scale RTC strategy for an SBR.
• Utilized sensors for ammonium (NH4), nitrate (NO3), total suspended solids (TSS), and sludge level.
• Real-time monitoring and adjustment of the SBR operating cycle.

Main Results:

• Achieved a 50% increase in SBR treatment capacity.
• Significantly improved treatment efficiency for Total Nitrogen (TN), Total Phosphorus (TP), and Ammonium Nitrogen (NH4-N).
• Comparable treatment efficiency for Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD).

Conclusions:

• The developed process-dependent RTC strategy is effective for full-scale SBRs.
• RTC implementation leads to substantial improvements in treatment capacity and nutrient removal.
• This approach offers a viable solution for enhancing wastewater treatment plant performance.