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SBR vs CAS

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aqua_pulse_sm_clr.gif (973 octets) SBR ,
Sequencing Batch Reactor
Trickling Filter Aerated Lagoon Wastewater treatment applications

Represented Equipment

Our technical objectives Our SBR preferred process Our SBR family development Nutrient Removal Our design approach
Our SBR equipment Our process control aqua_pulse_sm_clr.gif (973 octets) SBR, the client's best choice Our clients testimonies Partial list of SBR installations SBR, a technology in evolution  
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Flow Diagram Process Advantages aqua_pulse_sm_clr.gif (973 octets) SBR vs CAS SBR vs RBC US EPA Evaluation

Parameters
Compared

CAS
Conventional Activated Sludge

SBR
Sequencing Batch Reactor

Basic Biological Principle

Biological treatment process based on the growth of microorganisms forming an active biomass which is maintained in suspension as part of the mixed liquor of a reactor

Same

Specific Process Principle

Continuous flow of wastewater throughout the biological treatment plant regardless of flow or organic variations

Responsible batch treatment considering the organic and hydraulic variations

Main Process Strength

Process is "hydraulically driven" and designed with certain flexibilities to overcome the loads variations. Apparent simplicity of operation with very limited biological process control

Process is "time driven" as each batch of wastewater is scientifically treated using numerous biological process controls

General Process
Layout Approach
  • CAS uses a "series of basins with mechanical scrapers and sludge recirculation system
  • CAS is a "space-oriented" process with more structures and mechanical elements
  • SBR is a "one-reactor" technology in which all necessary treatment steps occur (physical and biological)
  • SBR in a "time-oriented" process in which a combined reactor/clarifier is used
Main Biological Controls Very limited generally
  • Sludge age (SRT)
  • Sludge recirculation (from the clarifier to the reactor)
  • Nature of the organics using prefermentation
  • Feed mode of the organic and hydraulic loads to the reactor
  • Environment life status of the process operation flexibility reactor (anoxic, anaerobic, aerobic)
  • Time control of each biological reaction and physical step of a sequence
  • Biomass activities and settleability characteristics
  • Priority of biological reactions to enhance the performances
Biological Selective Effect for SS Control
  • Non-existent with complete-mix CAS
  • Requires an additional reactor ahead of the reactor
  • or a special plug-flow configuration of the reactor construction
  • Very powerful biological selective effect using ECO-RFB SBR technology
  • Partial selective effect is available with ECO gradual-fill SBR technology
Risk of Bulking Sludge Always present No risk
Operating Strategy

Treatment flexibility is provided by using 50% of the bacteria capacity. Operator is a key man and must follow the operation and try to manually intervene in the process with very weak means at his disposal. For example, sludge age and sludge recirculation.

Treatment capacity and control of the process can be optimized by modifying the organic conditions and the feed mode of the reactor. The key operator is the PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) which is responsible for all process decisions at all times.

Overall Performance
  • Reasonably good for municipal wastewaters provided all flexibilities are built into the design initially
  • Limited for industrial wastewaters
  • Excellent for municipal wastewater particularly if the RFB-technique is used along with the nutrient removal technology
  • Ideal for all industrial wastewater
Nutrient Removal
Capacity to 0.5 mg PT/L
Possible by adding chemicals and filtration
  • Bio-P-Sequencer technology available using 2 SBRs in series
  • No chemicals required
  • No tertiary filtration required
Necessity of Equalization Recommended in many instances
  • Not necessary. Self-equalized capacity with "gradual-fill and draw" SBR
  • Recommended for advanced nutrient removal systems as an integrated part of a fermentor
Major Process Equipment
  • Aeration and mixing equipment
  • Sludge return piping and pumps (variable flow controls)
  • Sludge wasting pump
  • Aeration and mixing equipment
  • Sludge wasting pump
Space Requirement Important space required A 30% - 40% space savings can be realized compared to a conventional activated sludge systems
Major Process
Structures Necessary for the Best Possible Treatment Performance
Secondary Treatment
  • Pre-selector reactor
  • Aeration basin (reactor)
  • Clarifier
  • Sludge recycling system

Tertiary Treatment

  • Denitrification reactor
  • Chemical addition
  • Filtration
Secondary Treatment
  • SBR reactor only

Tertiary Treatment

  • Equalization/ prefermentation /UL>
Savings of the Operator's Time Very limited Important savings can be realized by using our BioLog SC-2000 PLC controls for daily operation, weekly reports, maintenance and even for remote operation and surveillance
Energy Savings Very limited Many savings are possible using:
  • D.O. probe and controller
  • Redox probe and controller
  • RFB feed mode
  • Prefermentation

Up to 50% of the energy can be saved for advanced treatment technology

Capital Cost Savings (complete plant)

Very limited 20% - 30% savings compared to conventional activated sludge systems