Modern technology minimises muck

David Stagg, technical product specialist for Graf UK, explains why SBR (Sequencing Batch Reactor) technology is the way forward for wastewater management.

Nutrient neutrality, reducing ammonia levels and carbon dosing – the world of wastewater treatment has become a dynamic and challenging one.

No longer is it just a choice between cesspool, septic tank or wastewater treatment plant. Now there are options for the latter too – between conventional flow/activated sludge systems and those (like all Graf wastewater treatment systems) that employ advanced SBR technology.

One of the main differences between these systems is that SBR combines several processes during the treatment cycle in a single treatment zone in a chronological sequence which means a clarifier/secondary chamber is no longer required.

SBR systems run in batch cycles which generally operate two or four times every 24 hours to ensure the treatment process is identical every time to produce high-quality effluent.

Continuous flow systems operate on a “What goes in, comes out,” basis, so during periods of heavy loading/inflow, the effluent travels through the system much quicker, potentially reducing its quality.

Bespoke designs utilising advanced SBR technology meet requirements for decreasing discharge levels of phosphate, nitrate, ammonia, BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand) and SS (Suspended Solids). They also bring potential design solutions for more challenging applications such as distilleries and dairies.

The system can control oxygen levels entering the treatment zone, allowing nitrification and denitrification treatment processes, as well as varying the duration, frequency, and arrangement of the cycle phases.

While the SBR process avoids the need for traditional tertiary/secondary treatment, such as reed beds, advanced tertiary treatment stages, such as UV, chlorination and specialist sand filtration processes, are possible.

Larger systems can be designed using multiple lines which can be combined and/or run independently, allowing a % of overall capacity when reduced loading (inflow) dictates - ideal for holiday parks and camping/caravan sites.

Whatever the treatment processes, it is essential the system is commissioned by Graf-trained specialists who are also responsible for its long-term maintenance and servicing.