Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Phosphorus removal
innovation
PAGE 58
tpomag.com
AUGUST 2015
In My Words:
Knowing residuals markets
PAGE 56
Tailgating to
Chuck Smithwick
District Manager
Grifton, N.C.
Excellence
CONTENTNEA MSD TEAM GETS THE
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PAGE 42
Sustainable Operations:
Low-risk biogas power
PAGE 28
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contents
top performers:
August 2015
Beautiful Music
32
22
Frank DAmbrosia hits all the right notes conducting plant operations
and training programs while building an award-winning career as a
clean-water plant superintendent.
By Jack Powell
on the cover
Chuck Smithwick and the team
at the Contentnea Metropolitan
Sewerage District (North
Carolina) hold informal morning
tailgate gatherings where
ideas are broached, solutions
discussed and experiences
shared. Says Smithwick: Everybody works
together. We dont let any good ideas go to
waste. (Photography by Stuart Jones)
42
12
Tailgating to Excellence
New Yorks Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission faces recruitment
challenges while keeping the leadership
pipeline filled.
By Ann Stawski
By Ed Wodalski
@TPOMAG.COM Page 10
IN MY WORDS Page 56
Pure Recognition
By Ted J. Rulseh
FOCUS:
May-December Marriage
By Craig Mandli
SUSTAINABLE OPERATIONS Page 28
Next in Line
Residuals as Resources:
Knowing the Market
Nutrient Solutions
By Ted J. Rulseh
By Doug Day
PLANTSCAPES Page 30
Roots of Preservation
A wide variety of trees beautify the landscape
and put the brakes on stream bank erosion at a
Missouri clean-water plant.
By Jeff Smith
Simple Screening
By Craig Mandli
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lets be clear
RUDE AWAKENING
But of course I woke up to reality. The nuclear plant was
still gone. And as far as the eye could see wed continue, as a
nation, making stupid decisions about energy.
I wonder, if we had an actual energy policy, what that would
mean for biogas from the nations clean-water plants
those with anaerobic digestion, anyway. This one seems like
the ultimate no-brainer. Clean-water plants all over the country have anaerobic digesters that produce methane. Many do
not use them to produce energy. What stands in their way?
More often than not, its the up-front investment in enginegenerators or combined heat and power (CHP) systems.
Treatment plants increasingly are recognized as resource
recovery facilities. One of their resources clearly is energy.
Biogas-to-energy systems, based on what I have seen and
OF
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Visit the site daily for new, exclusive content. Read our blogs, find resources and get the most out of TPO magazine.
SOCIAL CONNECTION
PINTEREST WORTHY
How to Upcycle
Old Water Meters
When an Iowa water utility replaced its manual
water meters, creativity broke loose. See how the
team repurposed old equipment, turning one
fine example into an office aquarium. (Hint: Some
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top performer
wastewater: BIOSOLIDS
Doing It
by the
Book
A MAINE SANITARY DISTRICT DEMONSTRATES THAT NO AGENCY IS TOO SMALL TO BENEFIT
FROM CREATING AND FOLLOWING A FORMAL BIOSOLIDS MANAGEMENT PLAN
STORY: Ted J. Rulseh | PHOTOGRAPHY: Gabe Souza
12
what we do, where we do it and how we do it. When regulators know that you
have a program in writing for anybody to see and you have a history of following it, youre fine.
The plan is built in the model of the National Biosolids Partnership Environmental Management System (EMS) program. The district land-applies
liquid, lime-stabilized biosolids on a farm 6 miles from its 490,000 gpd
career change. I was bored with what I was doing, he recalls. When you
work in a lab, you pretty much do the same thing day in, day out.
He and 11 others applied for an opening at the Mechanic Falls district.
Then-director Tom Schultz chose Konstantoulakis largely because he was
familiar with the ISO 9000 international quality standard, similar in character to National Biosolids Partnerships EMS: Tom wanted to do the EMS,
and I was a perfect fit.
EFFICIENT TREATMENT
Mechanic Falls, in southern Maine, has a 33-year-old activated sludge
treatment facility using a racetrack-style oxidation ditch. The community is
all residential and light commercial, which means flows rates and influent
quality are consistent year-round.
(design) clean-water plant. The management plan spells out every detail of
procedures. All land application takes place in October. The entire process
lime addition, hauling, spreading, testing, recordkeeping costs about
$15,000 a year.
HOMEGROWN TALENT
Konstantoulakis, a Maine native, has been with the district for 10 years
and director for two. He served in the U.S. Air Force for four years after high
school, lived in Texas for nine years working and attending Sam Houston
State University, then returned to Maine, where he put his industrial technology studies to work in laboratory positions with electronics manufacturers.
His quality assurance experience from those jobs helped him make a
1982
POPULATION SERVED: |
13
14
TO THE FIELDS
On the solids side, waste activated sludge is pumped to a pair of 150,000-gallon storage tanks, where it accumulates until land application season in October. Two Sutorbilt blowers (Gardner Denver) mix the material; there is no
digestion. Material enters the tanks at about 3 percent solids, and periodic
decanting raises the solids content to 4 percent.
Just before land application the tank contents are lime stabilized. After
an initial pH reading on the material, lime slurry is delivered to the tanks
by a trash pump until the pH reaches 12, a process that takes about 30 minutes. The pH is held at that level for two hours and rechecked the next day.
A years biosolids production is typically about 140,000 gallons.
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15
ACCORDING TO PLAN
The districts process is fully documented in the biosolids management
plan. The district joined the National Biosolids Partnership EMS program
in 2007 and is also a member of the North East Biosolids and Residuals
Association.
An EMS is a management framework that helps treatment facilities constantly improve in key areas, such as quality management, regulatory com-
Its a win-win program that benefits us all. It helps us continue to ensure that our biosolids
are of the highest quality and that our recycling program remains cost-efficient.
NICK KONSTANTOULAKIS
16
17
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To Konstantoulakis, the plan is
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we have our procedures in writing,
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if I get hit by a bus tomorrow, the
RUNNING SMOOTHLY
person I work with could easily take over. When were inspected by the DEP,
For now, Konstantoulakis, Ahlquist and office manager Carrie White
they can look at our plan and see putting it into practice.
are keeping the biosolids program and the treatment plant running smoothly.
The plan also helps the district run a consistent, clean operation and
Our goal right now is to keep things as they are, business as usual, Konavoid alarming the public:
stantoulakis says. Our No. 1 goals are to continue with preventive mainIts a win-win program that benefits us all. It helps us continue to ensure
tenance and to make our community more knowledgeable about us.
that our biosolids are of the highest quality and that our recycling program
My colleagues are in their 40s. Theyre computer-smart, they have posremains cost-efficient. There are a handful of people who are against land
itive energy and its great. I plan to work until Im 70. I really like what Im
application, but they tend to be the same people who will go to a hardware
doing. This is the first time in my life where I dont need an alarm clock to
store and buy fertilizer from another country, not even knowing where it
get up and go to work.
comes from. We dont look over our shoulder when we do this, but we do
understand that members of the public who dont understand it or have been
misinformed might raise concerns.
18
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19
wastewater:
HOW WE DO IT
May-December Marriage
A MASSACHUSETTS PLANT TEAM TAKES HEROIC MEASURES TO INTEGRATE
A NEW BIOGAS-FUELED CHP SYSTEM WITH AN OLDER TREATMENT PROCESS
By Scottie Dayton
The installation includes two fixed-cover Aquastore digester tanks (CST Industries) and dual membrane DuoSphere container (WesTech Engineering).
20
LEFT: Assistant superintendent Rene Robillard (left) and Bob Gomes, CHP
operator, connect a hose to the grease receiving tank. RIGHT: Gomes and
Linda Schick, sewer and wastewater superintendent, monitor energy
production from the MAN generator (Kraft Power Corporation).
plant mechanic, and Ray Paczosa, plant electrician, pinpointed the cause.
Rags had clogged a static mixer on the feed line in the CHP building, creating back-pressure on the line. Once they removed the mixer, solids flowed
to the digester. They also retrofitted the plunger pumps, rerouted piping and
installed new timers.
Bob came to the plant every weekend to check on the digester, says
Schick. Without his commitment, I doubt we would have been as successful. While others lost faith, Bob always rose to the challenge.
SEVERE INDIGESTION
More challenges were in store. A miscalculation placed the sludge level
too close to the top of the digester tanks, causing violent agitation. The burping, foaming material infiltrated and then blocked the output lines. Seeking
an escape route, the material entered the gas piping, forcing operators to
open pressure release valves instead of flaring the gas.
After we reduced the sludge level by 10 to 15 percent, Joe Frates installed drainlines on the gas piping, enabling operators to flush the system, says
Schick. Assistant superintendent Rene Robillard
was the lead on purging the entire gas system, beginning at the top of the digester and working back to
EVALUATING PERFORMANCE
Because the system is still in its infancy, projected savings are moving
targets. The process generates only enough biogas to heat the digester tanks
and power pumps in the digester building. To increase methane production
and reduce purchased gas from a third to less than a quarter, the town is considering adding restaurant grease to supercharge the system.
Electric rates doubling in March also moved the number. My normal
electricity budget is $300,000, says Schick. Im probably realizing a 20 percent savings from the CHP system and solar panels on three buildings after
deducting maintenance and other costs.
One solid benefit is the 50 percent reduction in biosolids sent for incineration. We had 10 to 12 trucks hauling it away every week, says Schick. Thats
down to four or five, reducing hauling costs by $130,000 last year.
Gomes (left), and Matt Manzone, maintenance craftsman, work on the DuoSphere container blowers.
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21
top performer
wastewater: OPERATOR
BEAUTIFUL
MUSIC
FRANK DAMBROSIA HITS ALL THE RIGHT NOTES CONDUCTING PLANT OPERATIONS
AND TRAINING PROGRAMS WHILE BUILDING AN AWARD-WINNING CAREER
AS A CLEAN-WATER PLANT SUPERINTENDENT
STORY: Jack Powell | PHOTOGRAPHY: Amy Voigt
procedures for taking readings on sludge blankets, grit removal procedures and lab analysis.
As for DAmbrosias reaction, I was very
surprised, he says in an accent that gives away
his New Yorker background. Its quite an honor
and one that reaffirms my belief that wastewater
has been a great career that Ive had the good
fortune to pursue for the last 35 years.
22
Communication up and
down is very important.
So is delegating letting people
take ownership of their work
and become part of whats being
done, rather than wait to be told
what to do.
ABOVE: DAmbrosia oversaw a major upgrade of the Archbold facility in 2006-07. BELOW: DAmbrosia,
FRANK DAMBROSIA
shown with Randy Volkman, plant operator, is a big believer in training. He provides classes at his
own facility as well as through the Ohio Water Environment Association.
Frank DAmbrosia,
Village of Archbold (Ohio)
Wastewater Treatment Plant
POSITION: |
23
Frank DAmbrosia, a
former music teacher
and traveling musician,
has enjoyed a rewarding
career and earned an
industry lifetime achievement award as superintendent at the Village of
Archbold Wastewater
Treatment Plant.
24
renovation increased capacity from 1.75 mgd to 2.5 mgd with 5 mgd peak
flow. It also added a grease removal system, new final clarifiers, a new ferrous chloride storage tank, new chlorination and dechlorination systems, a
new process monitoring and control system, and a new operations building.
The project also included modifications to a tertiary lagoon to create an
overflow basin that retains diverted influent over 5 mgd.
Today, the plants activated sludge process treats an average daily flow
of 1.6 mgd and removes 96.8 percent of TSS, 99.1 percent of CBOD, 92.4
DENNIS HOWELL
RANDY VOLKMAN
Booth 2020
25
HEARTS
AND MINDS
Pure Recognition
SAN DIEGO PUBLIC UTILITIES PICKS UP HONORS FOR EFFECTIVE
COMMUNICATION ABOUT ITS WATER PURIFICATION DEMONSTRATION
PROJECT FOR INDIRECT POTABLE REUSE
By Craig Mandli
CREATING DIALOGUE
The demonstration projects goal was to confirm the feasibility of purifying recycled water to supplement drinking water supplies. The outreach
program for the demonstration project included presentations, booths at
community events, facility tours, informational materials, advertisements
and social media.
After an outpouring of support, the San Diego City Council unanimously adopted the projects findings in April 2013 and set forth directives
for implementing the Pure Water San Diego program, which when complete
will divert some 100 mgd from the
Point Loma Wastewater Plant to
Whats Your Story?
three future water purification
facilities. Those plants will treat
TPO welcomes news about your
the water with membrane filtrapublic education and community
tion, reverse osmosis and UV disinoutreach efforts for future articles
fection/advanced oxidation before
in the Hearts and Minds column.
Send your ideas to editor@tpo
delivery to existing reservoirs.
mag.com or call 877/953-3301.
It was really a comprehensive communication plan and outreach strategy that encouraged public involvement and fostered active community dialogue, says Alma Rife, senior public information officer. The
result was an increase in understanding and a general approval rating of
water purification that went from 26 percent in 2004 to 73 percent in 2012.
THE BEGINNING
After several years of study, the council in October 2007 chose indirect
potable reuse as the best way to maximize use of recycled water. The council commissioned the Water Purification Demonstration Project to determine the feasibility of turning recycled water into purified water.
For a year beginning in 2012, the Advanced Water Purification Facility
reclaimed 1 million gallons of effluent daily and treated it to a level clean
enough to drink. The project included extensive testing at each step of the
process, along with a multipronged education program inviting people to
take virtual and actual tours of the facility.
PHOTOS AND GRAPHICS COURTESY OF THE CITY OF SAN DIEGO PUBLIC UTILITIES
Pure Water San Diego had a presence at the annual San Diego Festival of
Science & Engineering EXPO Day at Petco Park.
YOUTH COMPONENT
Rife says the city considers educating children at least as important as
informing adults. In her mind, the next generation will make decisions
about future water supply solutions and needs information about the longterm benefits of water reuse.
The city offers free tours of our North City Water Reclamation Treatment Plant to Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, elementary schools and various youth organizations, says Rife. Additionally, the staff participates in
events at schools and with youth organizations such as the YMCA. We focus
on creating content that involves lots of engagement. This includes handson activities, easy-to-understand visuals that are eye-catching, and asking
questions to keep their attention.
That includes answering questions that are not always positive. While
people have embraced the idea of drinking recycled wastewater as they
receive more information, some adults and children remain skeptical.
Rife says city employees answer the tough questions with transparency
and honesty: If one of our staff members does not know the answer to a
question, they take down the persons contact information and get back to
them in a timely manner with an accurate response.
Pure Water San Diego staff give a youth presentation during an Earth Fair event.
tpomag.com August 2015
27
SUSTAINABLE
OPERATIONS
Low-Risk
Biogas Power
By Doug Day
CLEANER ELECTRICITY
IEUA needed a new plan when air-quality regulations required a reduction in output of RP-1s two 1.4 MW cogeneration engines. While their total
ABOVE: About half of the electricity for the Regional Water Recycling Plant No.1
comes from this 2.8 MW fuel cell power plant. A 20-year power purchase
agreement sets a price for the power for the life of the contract.
NO CAPITAL INVESTMENT
The PPA gives IEUA a set cost for electricity into the
future without having to fund the project from its capital budget. There was no capital outlay, says Cambiaso. Were
only purchasing the power at an established rate. We didnt
want to assume the risk, so the PPA was a good solution.
Jesse Pompa, senior associate engineer in environmental
compliance, adds that the PPA addresses some issues the agency
had heard of with other projects. With other agencies, we had seen that the
gas conditioning skid and the fuel cells would be from separate manufacturers, and there would be a lot of finger-pointing if there was any downtime.
The fuel cells can also be powered with natural gas, in which case RP-1
still pays the guaranteed starting rate for the power: 12.6 cents per kWh with
a 2.5 percent annual escalation. That is comparable to the price now paid to
Southern California Edison. The assumption is that Edisons rates will
output capacity was the same as the new 2.8 MW fuel cell installation, the
agency was limited by emissions standards to operating just one of engines.
The agency decided on a partnership with a private firm, which owns
and operates the fuel cell plant and handled its design, financing and construction. The system uses a DFC3000 Direct FuelCell power plant from
FuelCell Energy, which calls the project the largest digester gas fuel cell
installation operating in the United States. It went online in January 2013.
28
systems at all its locations through a PPA with SunPower, for a total of 3.5 MW
solar generating capacity. The solar installations provide 8 percent of the
utilitys electrical needs, replacing power previously purchased off the grid.
Were still working on implementing some efficiency projects at RP-1
to conserve energy, says Cambiaso. Ultimately, the goal is to be self-sufficient. We have higher demand in summer, so we need to work on that. In
winter, we make some excess power and are working with the local utility to
export that power back to the grid.
At present, biogas generation matches up well with the need for gas on
site, but the agency is considering adding gas storage. The demand may
change or the production may change, says Cambiaso. So were looking to
see if it would be cost-effective to add gas storage.
FREE INFO SEE ADVERTISER INDEX
29
PLANTSCAPES
Roots of Preservation
A WIDE VARIETY OF TREES BEAUTIFY THE LANDSCAPE AND PUT THE BRAKES
ON STREAM BANK EROSION AT A MISSOURI CLEAN-WATER PLANT
By Jeff Smith
AN INSIDE JOB
Using a planting machine pulled by a 108 hp John Deere model 6415
tractor, operators Robert Brown and Dave Myer planted 14- to 16-inch-tall
cottonwood, bald cypress and sandbar willow cuttings, spaced 10 feet apart and
in rows with 10 feet of separation. Operator Wendell Valleroy drove the tractor.
Tree plantings are designed to curtail erosion on the bank of the Cinque
Hommes Creek.
area farther from the creek. The idea is to have the slower-growing trees
mature to provide shade in an area where a planting attempt several years
ago partially failed, says Meyer.
JEREMY MEYER
The idea of planting the trees grew out of a request from the Missouri
Department of Conservation (MDC). Staff members spotted the severe erosion while surveying the creek for Japanese hops, an invasive species that
can quickly choke off a waterway. I asked them if the hops could be used to
make beer, Meyer recalls jokingly.
The creek empties into the Mississippi River, where the Japanese hop
vine is most commonly found. In recent years it has been increasing its
range into streams and tributaries. The MDC worked with the city and
Meyer to negotiate a cost-sharing agreement that provided 90 percent funding for the nearly $7,000 project. A portion of the funding was to revisit and
In eight hours over two days, the men covered nearly 11 acres of field
and the embankment near the creek, assisted by Neil Bert, plant operations
foreman, and Mike Compte, operator. Meyer used a dibble bar to handplant 100 willow stakes on the eroded portion of the stream bank. He plans
to plant 300 more next spring. We are counting on the root structure of the
trees to stop the erosion, says Meyer.
The operators also used a dibble bar to hand-plant 3-foot-tall saplings of
pin oak, red oak, shumard oak, white oak, bur oak and black walnut in the
30
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Features:
Plant personnel involved in the project include, from left, Jeremy Meyer,
water/wastewater plant superintendent; Neil Bert, plant operations foreman;
Mike Compte and Dave Myer, plant operators; and Wendell Valleroy, plant
operator/electrician. Not shown: Robert Brown, plant operator.
update the previously failed planting. The cost also included field preparation by chemical application to eradicate competing vegetation around
newly planted and existing trees.
As a condition of the agreement, plant operators will be responsible for
the maintenance, mowing and weed-control spraying of the newly planted
field for 10 years. Meyer says the project was worthwhile and an efficient
team effort: Once we all got going and figured out how to do it the best way,
we got it done quickly. We hope the roots of the new trees will stabilize the
creek bank and stop the erosion.
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31
top performer
water:
PLANT
Beyond
the Normal
32
MAKING IMPROVEMENTS
DENNIS ROSS
1969
POPULATION SERVED: |
17,000
8 communities, 2 water districts
SOURCE WATER: | Otter Lake
TREATMENT PROCESS: | Conventional
DISTRIBUTION: | 40 miles of pipeline
SYSTEM STORAGE: | 1.1 million gallons
KEY CHALLENGE: | Keeping up with new regulations
WEBSITE: | www.otterlakewater.net
GPS COORDINATES: | Latitude: 39265.95N; longitude: 895348.68W
SERVICE AREA: |
Plant have a lot to be happy about improved water quality and operations
after an $8.5 million upgrade, a supportive water commission and general
manager Dennis Ross.
Ross brought his operations team through an 18-month improvement
project at the plant, in Girard, Illinois. Completed in 2010, it included adding solids contact clarifiers, two new multimedia filters, a new control room
and laboratory, and a million-gallon clearwell.
33
One thing that really stands out is when someone offers to work a holiday for an operator
with young kids. That shows how much we are like a family here.
DENNIS ROSS
Team members at the Otter Lake Water Commission treatment plant include,
from left, Stan Crawford, Jeff Stanley, Joe Hogan, Brian Durbin, Rudy
Rodriguez, Dennis Ross, Bob Dill and Tim Walter.
chose ClariCone solids contact clarifiers from CB&I for ease of operation and
low maintenance. We visited other plants that were using those and talked
to the operators, says Ross. We spent a lot of time doing our homework.
Water from Otter Lake is pumped to the plant where it is fed powdered
activated carbon and a preoxidant before entering the head tank for mixing.
From there, it enters the ClariCone units (two, for redundancy). Treated
water overflows into a weir and is piped to multimedia filters (Leopold - a
Xylem Brand). Peroxide is added for advanced oxidation to eliminate taste
and odor issues.
The water is sent to the UV system (TrojanUV) and then disinfected with
sodium hypochlorite gas before entering the clearwell. The new clearwell
is baffled to meet Illinois EPA contact time requirements before the water is
sent to our second clearwell, says Ross. A MOSCAD SCADA system (Motorola Solutions) ties the plant together.
Plant equipment includes a pair of ClariCone solids contact clarifiers supplied
by CB&I.
The board decided in 2007 to upgrade the water plant to replace aging
equipment and accommodate growth. The existing flocculation/sedimentation basins were not automated and were wearing out.
It was a good system back then, but new regulations required lower turbidity, which we had a difficult time meeting, says Ross. The board hired
Hurst-Rosche Engineering to look at equipment options. The commission
34
SMOOTH STARTUP
The ClariCone clarifiers provide mixing, tapered flocculation and sedimentation in one hydraulically driven vessel. There are no mixers, scrapers,
recycle pumps or other continuous moving parts. The system maintains a
dense, suspended, rotating slurry blanket that provides solids contact, accelerated floc formation and solids capture. The conical concentrator maximizes
slurry discharge concentration and enables operators to visually monitor the
slurry discharge.
The cones look like a wine glass, narrow at the base and larger at the
(continued)
35
top, basically an upside-down cone, says Ross. Water comes in the bottom, where it is mixed with caustic and polymer, turning at a pretty high
rate. As the water makes its way up the cone, the surface is larger, so the
water turns at a much slower rate. A blanket is formed in the lower portion of the cone, and clean water comes off the top.
The operators learning curve was smooth. Our lead operator, Jeff Stanley,
received hands-on training at another plant, then returned after a week and
trained the others, says Ross.
Bob Dill, operations supervisor, helped ensure a successful startup. He
did his homework, and we tested new chemical feeds in the old plant so we
knew what rates we would need to feed, recalls Ross.
Since the clarifiers need to have a sludge blanket to perform, the operators pumped lime sludge from the old plant into the new clarifiers with a
3-inch trash pump. When we started up the new plant, the sludge blanket
we needed was already in the cones, so we were able to make water that met
our permit the first day. This would not have happened without Bobs upfront work.
BETTER TASTE
The $2.3 million upgrade to UV/AOP technology allows the plant to comply with the Cryptosporidium rule and produces better-tasting water. We had
just gone through about eight months of algae in the lake and were getting
calls about taste and odor, recalls Ross. We looked at other plants UV/AOP
systems and talked to operators to find out what they liked and didnt like.
Although the new system uses significant electricity, Ross feels it is a
better way to reduce taste and odor. The system looks simple, but there is
a whole set of automated controls, separate from the SCADA, Ross says.
Operators must calibrate the in-line meters and check the sensors as part
of the state-required verification process.
The UV system looks at several things to ensure that the water is getting the correct dose of light. We have to verify that the systems are working
WATER BUFFALO
Dennis Ross, Otter Lake Water Commission general manager,
has dedicated his adult life to the water industry. At 17, he began
working for Missouri Cities Water Company in St. Charles. After
getting his certification, he moved into management and worked
for several water systems.
He reached a high point in 2014 when he received the AWWA
George Warren Fuller Award from the Illinois Section of AWWA. I
didnt feel that I was in the same class as others I know who had
received this award, he says. It was very emotional. Besides my
family, the chairman of my board, Jake Rettberg, was there.
Ross credits his mentors for his success: My main mentor
was the late Max Wells, who was the division manager for the St.
Charles division of Missouri Cities Water. I was working as a
draftsman, and Max asked if I would like to move to meter reading,
which is where everyone starts. Max taught me how to deal with
customers and mentored me while on that job.
Another mentor was Lynn Bultman, vice president of Missouri
Cities, who promoted Ross to division manager in Warrensburg,
Missouri. He was willing to put a 29-year-old kid in a management position, even though everyone else in that operation was
older than I was, Ross says. I dont think either of these gentlemen knew they were my mentors, but they enjoyed sharing their
knowledge with the next generation, and I was lucky enough to be
there to soak it up.
Dennis Ross,
general manager
(continued)
36
Screenings
& Headworks
Biological
Treatment
Separations
& ENR
Disinfection
Biosolids
Management
technology@parkson.com
1-888-Parkson
www.parkson.com
conservation
positive impact on our community, providing our city with safe water,
significant cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint.
Chuck Gray
Water Superintendent
Mount Vernon (Ind.) Water Works
How We Do It:
High-performing
treatment lagoon
PAGE 46
www.tpomag.com
SEPTEMBER 2014
Ed Matheson
Lead Operator
La Conner, Wash.
Plan B Leads to
Class A
A WASHINGTON TOWN CREATES
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PAGE 32
37
properly. UV transmittance is important. The in-line meter feeds this information to the UV system, so thats why we have to calibrate it every week.
Sensors in the reactor tell the system how much power is needed for the
correct dose of light. Operators check the sensors monthly by comparing
them to three reference sensors kept in storage. Each unit has two reference
sensors, which TrojanUV verifies and calibrates yearly.
The quartz sleeves that house the bulbs are automatically cleaned at
startup and shutdown and every eight hours. The lubricant must be refilled
and checked every six months. Magmeters that report the flow of water to
the system are calibrated monthly.
LOOKING AHEAD
Future challenges for the Otter Lake team include keeping up with EPA
regulations, fixing line breaks in the aging distribution system and preparing for weather events. An ice storm in the early 1980s knocked out power
for three days; the plant now has standby generators. We also have cots and
sleeping bags tucked away, and in the winter we stock canned goods just in
case, says Ross.
More plant improvements are in the works. New high service pumps and
two new backwash pumps should be in place by summer 2016. Variable-frequency drives will save about $40,000 a year on electricity.
The UV system
looks at several
things to ensure that
the water is getting the
correct dose of light.
We have to verify that
the systems are
working properly.
DENNIS ROSS
HIGH MORALE
High productivity and morale
define the plant operations team. I
believe theyre happy here because
they are encouraged to make suggestions and to come up with things that
are beyond the normal job, says Ross.
The operators use their talents
to everyones advantage; they even
remodeled the plants bathroom.
Moving the lab allowed us to convert the old lab into a break area for
the microwave, coffee maker and
refrigerator, says Ross. All of these
were in the filter room before. The
operators welcomed that change.
The job offers substantial variety: lab work, maintenance, meter
Plant team members like Jeff Stanley, lead operator, routinely take initiative in offering ideas and providing labor to
reading, grounds maintenance. Operimprove the facility.
ators also help protect the Otter Lake
watershed by planting trees and laying riprap along the shoreline. Otter Lake is the only lake in the state with
The team will continue its watershed preservation work and community
its own mechanical barge, according to Ross. It can haul 17 tons of riprap
outreach. Were very involved with the ISAWWA, and we hosted a plant
and place it along the shoreline at a rate of about 100 feet per day with a crew
tour for them in September 2014, says Ross. The plant also offers tours to
of three.
local schools: Even if those students dont go on to become operators, they
The operators support each other, helping new hires understand a treatmay be our customers some day, so its important for them to know who we
ment process or prepare for the next exam. One thing that really stands out
are and what we do.
is when someone offers to work a holiday for an operator with young kids,
says Ross. That shows how much we are like a family here.
from:
Ross, a commission team member since 1997 and general manager since
CB&I
Motorola Solutions
1998, holds a Class A water treatment license. Besides Dill (Class A, 16 years)
832/513-1000
847/576-5000
and Stanley (Class A, 17 years), the team includes Rudy Rodriguez, crew
www.cbi.com
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foreman (Class D, 18 years); Class A operators Stan Crawford, Otis Foster,
(See ad page 21)
Joe Hogan and Tim Walter; Class C operator Eric Walsh; and Brian Durbin.
TrojanUV
Leopold - a Xylem Brand
888/220-6118
Customer service representatives Laura Sommerfeld and Andrea Hanney
855/995-4261
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handle tasks that include billing, human resources, public relations, IT,
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BUILDING
THE TEAM
Next in Line
NEW YORKS SOUTHERN CAYUGA LAKE INTERMUNICIPAL
WATER COMMISSION FACES RECRUITMENT CHALLENGES
WHILE KEEPING THE LEADERSHIP PIPELINE FILLED
By Ann Stawski
Judith Drake, human resources manager for the Town of Ithaca and the
Southern Cayuga commission, agrees that people do not always consider
work in water facilities as a career option: Its not always a calling one thinks
about in high school, but once they are introduced to the occupation, most
tend to stay for the long haul.
RECRUITING CHALLENGES
A succession plan has helped the Bolton Point Water System prepare for a
future of capable and stable leadership.
40
Drake finds recruiting for the water facility to be a challenge in that many
professionals dont want to jump from one water plant to another. The Bolton
Point system advertised nationally for its open positions and received only
eight responses.
150 YEARS
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PERFORMANCE 3
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IN AERATION BLOWER SYSTEMS
PROMOTING INTERNALLY
While Rueckheim stepped in as general manager,
the Southern Cayuga commission found a suitable
production manager from an internal source. While
a leadperson, Joan Foote had been performing some
work normally done by the production manager; she
was able to transition into that role.
Drake acknowledges challenges in enticing employees to advance through the ranks: Some people
understand that by moving up to a manager level,
there is more responsibility to undertake. Sometimes
it means being on call and making quick decisions
at two in the morning. Some people just dont want
to step up to that level.
To help promote from within, the Southern Cayuga
commission launched extensive supervisory and management training to employees who show interest and
potential to become managers or supervisors. In addition, employees receive operational training beyond
what is required to maintain their licenses.
The training and tests taken by our staff is a
strong point of the commission, says Rueckheim.
Employees receive cross-training in other depart-
Achieve Performance3
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41
top performer
wastewater:
PLANT
Tailgating to
Excellence
District, tailgating doesnt mean getting together for beer and burgers
before a football game. It refers to the informal morning gatherings of the
eight-member operations staff before they head out for their daily tasks.
Ideas are broached. Solutions discussed. Experiences shared.
Were a team, says Chuck Smithwick, manager of the district, based in
Grifton, North Carolina. Everybody works together. We dont let any good
ideas go to waste.
Adds Renee Smith, operator in responsible charge, Were small. Each
day we might be doing something different. You put on whatever hat you
need to wear that day.
The daily exchange of ideas and observations helps because the district
is operating a brand-new wastewater treatment plant, the culmination of
more than $33 million in improvements and upgrades over the last 10 years,
driven by new requirements from state and federal environmental agencies.
The result? The district meets all discharge parameters, including nutrient
reductions.
STEP UP TO BNR
The Contentnea district serves the communities of Winterville (population 10,000), Ayden (5,000) and Grifton (2,800). Average daily flow to the 4
mgd (design) treatment plant is 2.14 mgd. Effluent flows into Contentnea
Creek, a part of the Neuse River watershed.
In the old days before the improvement project, the district operated a
42
tem. Each community is responsible for the integrity of its own system. Were
working with our communities on reducing I&I, Smithwick says.
OUT WITH N
In the Bardenpho system, the first phase of the oxidation ditch operates
in the anaerobic mode for luxury uptake of phosphorus. It is followed by an
anoxic zone for nitrogen removal, an aerobic aeration stage for nitrification,
a second anoxic stage for further denitrification, and a post-aeration stage to
promote settling in the clarifier. Return activated sludge is directed back to
both anoxic zones.
Two 90-foot-diameter, 16-foot-deep clarifiers settle solids and produce a
clear overflow that passes to a tandem of deep bed sand denitrification filters.
Methanol is the carbon source. The filters are bumped periodically to release
nitrogen in its gaseous form.
The filter also polishes the wastewater.
Filter backwash water is returned to the head of the plant. TSS is not an
issue, as the plant easily meets its requirement of less than 30 mg/L. Total nitrogen isnt an issue anymore: In 2014, the plant effluent averaged just 1.69 mg/L
total nitrogen. Final effluent is UV disinfected (WEDECO) before discharge.
Biosolids are aerobically digested, gravity thickened to 2 percent solids
and dewatered on two new 800 Series incline screw presses (Huber Technology) rated at 90 gpm. Cake averaging 18 to 20 percent solids is hauled to a
compost facility about 90 miles away. The district owns 70 acres surrounding the treatment plant where liquid biosolids can be applied.
tpomag.com August 2015
43
CHUCK SMITHWICK
We started operating the screw presses in March 2014, with the goal of
reducing land application of biosolids to our property by 50 percent, says
Smithwick. We typically apply about 2.2 million gallons to our fields annually. In 2014, the property received 800,000 gallons, fertilizing Bermuda grass
and coastal hay for livestock feed. Material is applied from mid-March through
October. About 1.5 million gallons was dewatered in the presses in 2014.
KEEPING CONTROL
The control system (Ovivo) ramps the aerators up and down to control
dissolved oxygen in the BNR process and optimize chemical and energy use.
44
The CMSD staff includes, front row, from left, Harriett Pridgen, Windy
Sammond and Renee Smith; back row, Jimmy Edwards, Stephen Berry,
James Woodard and Chuck Smithwick. Not shown: Ricky Barrow.
EFFLUENT
PERMIT
143 mg/L
2.26 mg/L
15 mg/L
TSS
165 mg/L
30 mg/L
Phosphorus
3.79 mg/L
0.66 mg/L
2.0 mg/L
Total nitrogen
24.19 mg/L
1.69 mg/L
37,100 lbs/yr
BOD
We pump biosolids into one of the digesters for a week, then switch to
a second digester and pump into that one for a week, Smithwick says. Its a
batch operation: Each digester holds solids for about a month to condition the
material before it is transferred to the dewatering facility or spread on land.
By using the old plant, weve been
able to increase our storage from 1 milThe (oxidation)
lion gallons to 2.4 million gallons, Smithwick says. From an operations standpoint,
ditch is very
we cant have enough storage space. The
operator-friendly. We increased capacity enables the plant to
remove, stabilize and properly recycle its
biosolids.
essentially turn it on
OPERATING INNOVATIONS
45
Each facility is
different. We
learned the new
processes together
and we brainstormed
with all our operators
on how to optimize
operations.
RENEE SMITH
phorus removal, Smith says. In hot weather, increased DO reduces the tendency of phosphorus to release back into the water. The plant also adds alum
during summer to increase phosphorus removal.
PEAK PERFORMANCE
The tweaks make a difference. The district produces outstanding effluent, averaging well under permitted levels for BOD, TSS, phosphorus and
total nitrogen. Effluent phosphorus averaged 0.66 mg/L for all of 2014; total
nitrogen averaged 1.69 mg/L.
The plants nitrogen permit limit is stated in pounds released per year.
Our permit limits us to no more than 37,100 pounds of nitrogen on an annual
basis, Smithwick says. In 2014, our actual was 10,492 pounds.
The district has gone from near
the bottom of the list to first in
nitrogen removal among the members of the Neuse River Compliance
from:
Association, a regional nutrient
AUMA Actuators, Inc.
trading group formed to reduce
724/743-2862
nitrogen into the sensitive Pamlico
www.auma-usa.com
Sound estuary.
Huber Technology, Inc.
Before installation of the new
704/949-1010
treatment processes, the district diswww.huberforum.net
charged more than 6 mg/L of total
(See ad page 9)
nitrogen at the midyear points of
Ovivo USA, LLC
2008 and 2009, and more than 8
512/834-6000
mg/L in 2010. In 2014, the midyear
www.ovivowater.com
number was 1.52 mg/L, lowest in the
Parkson Corp.
compliance association. Its much
888/727-5766
easier now, says Smithwick. Its
www.parkson.com
better for our operators and for the
(See ad page 37)
environment.
WEDECO a Xylem Brand
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products
855/995-4261
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Windy Sammond, lab assistant,
performs regular tests to help keep
the process in control and on track.
46
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47
See ad page 59
See ad page 67
Bio
Tre solids
a
Ap tmen
plic t /
ati
on
Ce
ntr
Se ifug
par es
ato /
rs
Che
Feemical
d E /Po
qui lym
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s
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Sil s/Hop
os pe
r
DIRECTORY
An
a
Dig erob
est ic
ers
2015
Headworks/Biosolids Management
See ad page 73
See ad page 2
Boerger, LLC
2860 Water Tower Pl., Chanhassen, MN 55317
612-435-7300 Fax: 612-535-7301
america@boerger.com www.boerger.com
See ad page 69
See ad page 17
Carylon Corporation
2500 W Arthington St., Chicago, IL 60612
800-621-4342 312-666-7700 Fax: 312-666-5810
info@caryloncorp.com www.caryloncorp.com
See ad page 21
CB&I
2103 Research Forest Dr., The Woodlands, TX 77380
832-513-1000 Fax: 832-513-1005
water@cbi.com www.cbi.com
See ad page 59
See ad page 59
48
Centrisys Corporation
9586 58th Pl., Kenosha, WI 53144
877-339-5496 262-654-6006 Fax: 262-764-8705
info@centrisys.us www.centrisys.us
CNP - Technology Water and Biosolids Corp.
9535 58th Pl., Kenosha, WI 53144
262-764-3651 Fax: 262-764-8705
gerhard.forstner@cnp-tec.com www.cnp-tec.com
Underdrain
Filter
Bottoms
(continued)
49
Dry
ers
Oth
er
Slu
d
Ha ge ulin
g/D
isp
osa
l
Slu
dge
-H
eat
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Slu
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Sta eivin
tio g
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Slu
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De ge wa
Pre teri
sse ng /
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Pu
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Arc ps h
Sc imed
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/
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l/ H /
aul
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See ad page 19
CST Industries
498 N Loop 336E, Conroe, TX 77301
936-539-1747
kmathis@cstindustries.com www.cstindustries.com
Bio
Tre solids
a
Ap tmen
plic t /
ati
on
Ce
ntr
Se ifug
par es
ato /
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Che
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qui lym
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Co
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lym nts
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Co
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Equ post
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ent
Co
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yor
s
s/
Bin
Sil s/Hop
os pe
r
DIRECTORY
An
a
Dig erob
est ic
ers
2015
Headworks/Biosolids Management
See ad page 31
See ad page 4
See ad page 25
See ad page 54
See ad page 8
See ad page 61
See ad page 9
See ad page 55
See ad page 47
See ad page 29
50
Grease
Receiving
(continued)
51
Dry
ers
Oth
er
Slu
d
Ha ge ulin
g/D
isp
osa
l
Slu
dge
-H
eat
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/ Th
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Se
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Sta eivin
tio g
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Slu
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De ge wa
Pre teri
sse ng /
s
Pu
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Arc ps h
Sc imed
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/
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l/ H /
aul
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adw
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Gri
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Bio
Tre solids
a
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ati
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Ce
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ato /
rs
Che
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d E /Po
qui lym
pm er
ent
Co
agu
Flo lan
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Po cula ts/
lym nts
ers /
Co
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Equ post
ipm ing
ent
Co
nve
yor
s
s/
Bin
Sil s/Hop
os pe
r
DIRECTORY
An
a
Dig erob
est ic
ers
2015
Headworks/Biosolids Management
Komline-Sanderson
12 Holland Ave., Peapack, NJ 07977
800-225-5457 908-234-1000 Fax: 908-234-9487
info@komline.com www.komline.com
See ad page 69
See ad page 3
See ad page 31
See ad page 37
Parkson Corp.
1401 W Cypress Creek Rd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309
888-727-5766 954-974-6610 Fax: 954-974-6182
technology@parkson.com www.parkson.com
See ad page 71
See ad page 35
See ad page 73
Roto-Mix, LLC
2205 E Wyatt Earp Blvd., Dodge City, KS 67801
620-225-1142 Fax: 620-225-6370
info@rotomix.com www.rotomix.com
Schreiber LLC
100 Schreiber Dr., Trussville, AL 35173
205-655-7466 Fax: 205-655-7669
info@schreiberwater.com www.screiberwater.com
Screenco Systems LLC
13235 Spur Rd., Genesee, ID 83832
208-790-8770
screencosys@gmail.com www.screencosystems.com
See ad page 39
SEEPEX Inc.
511 Speedway Dr., Enon, OH 45323
937-864-7150 Fax: 937-864-7157
sales.us@seepex.com www.seepex.com
See ad page 79
See ad page 78
52
SUEZ ENVIRONNEMENT
8007 Discovery Dr., Richmond, VA 23229
800-446-1150 804-756-7600
info-infilco@degtec.com www.degremont-technologies.com
Continuous
Deflection
Separation
Sludge Incineration
(continued)
53
Dry
ers
Oth
er
Slu
d
Ha ge ulin
g/D
isp
osa
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Slu
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-H
eat
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Slu
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Se
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tio g
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Slu
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See ad page 47
See ad page 80
USABlueBook
PO Box 9006, Gurnee, IL 60031
800-548-1234 847-689-3000 Fax: 847-689-3030
customerservice@usabluebook.com www.usabluebook.com
USP Technologies (US Peroxide)
900 Circle 75 Pkwy., Ste. 1330, Atlanta, GA 30339
877-346-4262 404-352-6070 Fax: 404-352-6077
info@usptechnologies.com www.usptechnologies.com
See ad page 11
See ad page 15
54
Bio
Tre solids
a
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plic t /
ati
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Ce
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Se ifug
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Che
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Sil s/Hop
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DIRECTORY
An
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Dig erob
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2015
Headworks/Biosolids Management
Slu
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Odor Control
Fine
Tuners
Finicky, Fastidious
and Fussy
In common with most water engineers we meet, at Hydro we are
shamelessly persistent in fine-tuning the best from our technology.
Obsessing over the finest details is essential for optimum design
and operation.
Using the proven principles of Advanced Grit Management , we
demand 85-95% removal of grit entering wastewater treatment plants.
In a small footprint, the Eutek HeadCell protects downstream processes
from abrasion and deposition so the plant functions as designed.
55
IN MY WORDS
Residuals as Resources:
Knowing the Market
LISE LEBLANC HELPS ORGANIC RESIDUALS SUPPLIERS CONNECT WITH
THEIR CUSTOMERS. HER SUCCESS WITH MUNICIPAL AND PRIVATE-SECTOR
CLIENTS HOLDS LESSONS FOR BIOSOLIDS RECYCLING PROGRAMS.
By Ted J. Rulseh
56
About LP Consulting
LP Consulting, based in Mount Uniacke, Nova Scotia, works
to develop sustainable solutions for farmers, businesses and the
environment. The companys four staff professionals offer
expertise in nutrient, soil and waste management, crop production, land reclamation, education, training and research.
The company also partners with municipal and industrial
clients to develop, manage and sustain waste-to-resource
programs involving biosolids, wood ash, compost, anaerobic
digestate, offshore drilling waste, rendering plant effluent,
fishery waste, paper mill sludge, and construction and demolition waste. LP also works with crop and livestock producers to
increase yields and profitability. That includes helping them
make use of local soil amendments that improve crop production
and soil health.
Company principal Lise LeBlanc holds a bachelors degree in
agriculture from Dalhousie University, along with a bachelors
degree in education and a Master of Science degree from Acadia
University. Both institutions are in Nova Scotia.
sure. With information, you can bring them around. You also have those
who, whatever you give them or tell them, will never change their minds.
: Besides the products youve already mentioned, what other programs has your company been involved with?
LeBlanc: We run a wood ash program for the J.D. Irving forest products company out of New Brunswick. Our wood ash programs are booked
now about two years in advance, before the product is even made. Were looking at moving chicken manure and livestock manure that farmers cant use
on their own land. Were also looking at soil blending and composting.
: What are some other residual products that you see as having
potential?
LeBlanc: One is pulp and paper sludge. Some companies try to burn
it, but it has high water content, so thats very inefficient. Some years ago, a
company tried a land application program, but it wasnt well managed, and
odors shut it down. But Ive seen it on agricultural land, and it works fantastic. I think it has big potential.
Fish waste is an excellent source of nitrogen and other nutrients for farms,
but again, theres a need to address odor. You could co-compost it. Biofuel is
another potential market for using residuals. To the general public, if theyre
uncomfortable with biosolids, if there is an ick factor, well, youre not using
it to grow food. Youre using it to grow energy. Theres probably residual
material out there that we dont even know about yet that could be excellent
for waste-to-resource programs.
: Whats the benefit of co-composting?
LeBlanc: Co-composting can increase the value of a compost and make
it easier to move. Suppose you have a material that has a nutrient value of $5 or
$10 per tonne. Thats not going to be very attractive to the farm community. But
what if theres another residuals company nearby that has a different product, so that if you blended those two together, its worth $50 a tonne? Now
you certainly can go back to the table and talk about moving that product.
: What are some examples of residuals that could be profitably mixed?
LeBlanc: Adding biosolids to compost can greatly increase the nutrient value, but then you have to deal with public concern about biosolids.
Thats not difficult in the agricultural sector, but then farmers have to deal
with their neighbors. Another material that can be composted is digestate
from food waste, or food waste mixed with animal manure.
: How would you characterize the future potential for residuals?
LeBlanc: I think there is huge potential for residuals. The price of fertilizer continues to go up. The ability to easily extract phosphorus from the
earth is decreasing. In the next 30 years, that phosphorus will be extremely
expensive. Phosphorus is key to plant growth, so its important that governments support residuals for land application. If were to be sustainable in the
future, we cant keep putting these residual nutrients into landfills.
: Can regulatory agencies play a role in advancing residuals
programs?
LeBlanc: Departments of environment need to improve their approaches
if were to move ahead on these sustainable programs. Many departments
say they support sustainable programs, but in reality they make it very difficult. Many dont like to look at research conducted in other areas. They say,
Were different here. But in reality theyre not so different.
Why do we set programs back by decades because their first response is
to say no, regardless if there are similar successful programs elsewhere?
Thats not supportive of sustainability. I understand they need to ensure that
a product is safe, but when they have all the data to show that its safe, they
shouldnt put up roadblocks to making programs successful. Thats frustrating for companies that want to provide sustainable programs. It all comes
back to sustainability: reducing waste, changing waste to resources and using
those resources.
tpomag.com August 2015
57
TECHNOLOGY
DEEP DIVE
Nutrient Solutions
AN INNOVATIVE PROCESS COMBINES CHEMICAL TREATMENT AND MEMBRANE SEPARATION
TO EXTRACT AND RECOVER PHOSPHORUS FROM WASTEWATER BIOSOLIDS
By Ted J. Rulseh
58
JEFF DAWSON
Ideas Ahead
See us at WEFTEC booth 2674
Call Toll-free:
877.771.6041
59
spotlight
Simple Screening
DEWATERING PLANT OWNER MARKETS HIS RECEIVING STATION TO THE INDUSTRY
By Craig Mandli
60
www.wwettshow.com | 866.933.2653
Water & Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport Show
61
product focus
FKC SKID-MOUNTED
DEWATERING SYSTEM
Headworks and
Biosolids Management
By Craig Mandli
Aftermarket Parts/Service
AGC CHEMICALS AMERICAS AFLAS
FLUOROELASTOMERS
CONVEYOR COMPONENTS
COMPANY VA AND VAX
Model VA and VAX bucket elevator alignment
controls from Conveyor Components Company are
designed to indicate when the head or boot section
of a bucket elevator drifts too far out of alignment.
They can be used to signal a problem
Model VA and VAX bucket elevator
alignment controls from Conveyor
or simply shut down the bucket elevaComponents Company
tor leg. This control device has a sequential two-pole double-break microswitch rated for 20 amps at 120, 240 or
480 VAC. The switch actuation is field adjustable with a simple 3/32 hex
wrench adjustment. The metal roller is sturdy and bidirectional, and
designed to survive in difficult environments. The housing is a rugged
polyester powder-coated steel frame with a specially designed non-accumulating pocket. The microswitch is rated NEMA 4 weatherproof, or
NEMA 7/9 explosion-proof. Epoxy coating is available. 800/233-3233;
www.conveyorcomponents.com.
Shaftless screws from ML Spirals are constructed from high-strength Swedish alloy steel
with high wearing ability and the torque requirements for various spiral applications. They are
cold formed in a multitude of close-tolerance
Shaftless screws
diameters and pitches up to 30 inches in diamefrom ML Spirals
ter, and in a variety of bar sizes as large as 4.8 by
1.2 inches. They can be used to transport wet, sticky and difficult materials with a high risk of clogging. 416/277-4262; www.ml-spirals.com.
ANDRITZ SEPARATION
LOW-PROFILE BELT PRESS
The low-profile dewatering belt press from
Andritz Separation has SmarTrax technology
that lowers the costs of ownership. The Center of Competences of Arlington with
Low-profile dewatering belt
collaboration of specialists of the French
press from Andritz Separation
ANDRITZ facility developed the press,
which is engineered with the operator in mind. The low-profile design
provides modular flexibility, a smaller footprint, quality of construction
and easy maintenance without compromising performance. 800/433-5161;
www.andritz.com/separation.
BRIGHT TECHNOLOGIES
BELT FILTER PRESS
Belt filter press unit from
Bright Technologies
62
The 1.7-meter, trailer-mounted belt filter press unit from Bright Technologies has
an insulated control room with FRP walls,
air conditioning, electric heat, a refrigera-
tor, stainless steel desk, tool storage, locker, closed-circuit TV and remote
operator controls. The modular design allows the room to be custom
manufactured to fit most single-drop trailers. Units are made for rapid
setup, with folding conveyor and operator walkways. No special lifting
equipment is required. 800/253-0532; www.brightbeltpress.com.
FOURNIER INDUSTRIES
ROTARY PRESS
LUTZ-JESCO AMERICA
LJ-POLYBLEND POLYMER SYSTEM
The rotary press from Fournier Industries uses two slowly rotating screens to create a 2-inch channel that biosolids pass through
as they dewater. A pressure restrictor on the
Rotary press from
outlet allows the operator to vary the degree
Fournier Industries
of cake dryness in the final product. It has
few components and is designed for ease of maintenance. The totally
enclosed design mitigates odors and allows the operator to stay out of
direct contact with the sludge. The robust control system allows for unattended operation, and it can be equipped with a single dewatering channel, expandable up to six channels on a single machine. It offers low
power usage, low noise levels, very little water use and a compact footprint. 952/288-5771; www.rotary-press.com.
The LJ-PolyBlend Polymer System from LutzJESCO America Corp. is a dependable, motorized
mixing machine with a corrosion-resistant housing, large turbine and multi-zone mixing chamber that provides uniform dispersion energy at the
moment of initial polymer wetLJ-PolyBlend Polymer System
ting. The prime mixing zone
from Lutz-JESCO America Corp.
fully activates the polymer, while
the second mixing zone promotes gentle polymer activation via a
small turbine, lessening molecule fracturing. Its stainless steel injection valve prevents agglomerations and reduces the need for extended
mixing time. The system includes a clear mixing chamber that provides visual monitoring of mixing polymer feed. Its compact design
only 1 to 1.5 square feet means its light and allows for easy installation and transportation. It has automatic pump speed adjustment
via 4-20 mA input, water flow sensor and priming port. 800/5542762; www.lutzjescoamerica.com.
Coagulants/Flocculants
BASF CORPORATION
WATER SOLUTIONS DIVISION
ZETAG ULTRA
The Zetag Ultra flocculant range from
BASF Corporation Water SoluZetag Ultra flocculant range
tions Division is a high molecular
from BASF Corporation
weight cationic product designed
Water Solutions Division
to improve dewatering efficiencies.
It has been shown to offer improvements in cake solids of up to 20
percent while reducing effective doses by as much as 40 percent.
Originally designed specifically for dewatering municipal sludges
by centrifuge, the range has also found positive results in thickening applications, including gravity belts and dissolved air, as well as
in other industries where sludge is processed at high temperatures
and extremes of pH. 800/322-3885; www.watersolutions.basf.com.
(continued)
63
product focus
Composting Equipment
BIONETIX INTERNATIONAL
BCP85 COMPOST ACCELERATOR
BCP85 Compost Accelerator from Bionetix
International is a blend of bacteria, yeast,
enzymes and nutrients that accelerate
and optimize degradation of organic BCP85 Compost Accelerator
from Bionetix International
wastes. Microorganisms and nutrients
enrich the material to be degraded and yield an enriched fertilizer. The
product provides microbial diversity for maturation and degradation of
compost. It contains minerals, amino acids, peptides and vitamins for
growth and metabolic activity of microorganisms, including bacteria,
yeast and fungi, providing basic element nutrients often missing in
organic waste. 514/457-2914; www.bionetix-international.com.
ROTO-MIX INDUSTRIAL
COMPOST SERIES
Industrial Compost series mixers
from Roto-Mix have a GeneRation II
Staggered Rotor that combines gentle
tumbling with quick complete mixing to
Industrial Compost series
ensure rapid decomposition and quality
mixers from Roto-Mix
compost. Ingredients are lifted up to the
side augers that move the material end-to-end for a fast, thorough mix.
Total movement of material in the mixing chamber eliminates dead
spots. The rotor lifts the material past the wedging point of the lower
side auger, providing a fluffier mixture while lowering power requirements. The conveyor is used to build windrows or static piles. They are
available in 16.7-, 23-, 27.8- and 34.1-cubic-yard capacities as stationary,
trailer- or truck-mount units. 620/338-0090; www.rotomix.com.
Dewatering Equipment
AQUA-ZYME DISPOSAL SYSTEMS 30-YARD
OPEN-TOP ROLL-OFF DEWATERING UNIT
The 30-yard Open-Top Roll-off Dewatering Unit from AQUA-Zyme
Disposal Systems can be filled with 22,000 to 25,000 gallons of biosolids at 1 to 2 percent solids in about two hours. After draining 24 hours,
the unit can be picked up using a standard-capacity roll-off truck and
Grinders/Shredders
HYDRA-TECH PUMPS S4SHR-LP
The S4SHR-LP 4-inch hydraulic submersible shredder pump from Hydra-Tech Pumps continuously rips and
shears solids with a 360-degree shredding action. The carbide-tipped impeller and hardened macerator suction plate
work together to produce a violent shredding action that
keeps the discharge open. It is narrower in
S4SHR-LP shredder pump
size at 21.5 inches, which allows it to fit through
from Hydra-Tech Pumps
most manholes. Depending on the application, there is a version for portable or fixed installations. A guide rail
assembly is available for stationary applications. Combined with HT15
to HT35 power units, it is capable of flows up to 810 gpm. The safe and
variable-speed hydraulic drive can be used where electric power is hazardous or impractical. 570/645-3779; www.hydra-tech.com.
64
Grit Handling/Removal/Hauling
PAXXO LONGOFILL
The Longofill continuous bag system from Paxxo
can connect to the discharge point of machines used
to move, dewater or compact screenings, grit and
biosolids. Material is then deposited in a 90-meterlong continuous bag for odor containment and spillage control. The cassette bag is easy to seal, and the
material and odors are trapped inside, cutting down development of bacteria and fun- Longofill continuous bag
system from Paxxo
gus spores. 770/502-0055; www.paxxo.us.
Screw Conveyors
SPIROFLOW SYSTEMS FLEXIBLE
SCREW CONVEYOR
Flexible Screw Conveyors from Spiroflow Systems can help accurately meter chemicals used for
pH, bacteria, taste and odor control. Chemicals such
as hydrated lime, activated carbon and soda ash can
be accurately dosed using either loss-in-weight or volumetric metering, while eliminating dust and environmental contamination. They easily
Flexible Screw Conveyors
convey dosing chemicals from silos, bulk
from Spiroflow Systems
bags or bin hoppers to achieve accurate
dosing rates as low as 2 pounds per hour. They are flexible and can convey in any direction from horizontal to vertical, routed around fixed
obstacles and equipment, and from one room to another through small
wall openings. They require minimal maintenance, are easy to clean
and dust-free, and can operate at rates of 2 to 88,000 pounds per hour.
704/246-0900; www.spiroflowsystems.com.
LAKESIDE EQUIPMENT
RAPTOR SEPTAGE
ACCEPTANCE PLANT
The Raptor Septage Acceptance Plant
and Raptor Septage Complete Plant from
Lakeside Equipment CorpoRaptor Septage Acceptance Plant
ration help manage the unloadand Complete Plant from Lakeside
ing process and protect
Equipment Corporation
downstream equipment. The
system, with security access and hauler management and accounting software, provides municipalities the tools needed to maximize
revenue generation and produce more energy with minimal maintenance. 630/837-5640; www.lakeside-equipment.com.
Screening Systems
AQUALITEC CORP. RAKETEC
The Raketec multi-rake bar screen from
Aqualitec Corp. is capable of huge flow capacity, with low operational costs and hassle-free
maintenance. It offers up to 80 mgd flow capacity and is resistant to clogging and
Raketec multi-rake bar screen
debris damage because it has no subfrom Aqualitec Corp.
merged moving parts. The design
helps increase debris capture efficiency, prevent costly downtime
and repairs, and allow safer and more efficient wastewater treatment
plant operation. 855/650-2214; www.aqualitec.com.
E & I CORPORATION
CATENARY BAR SCREEN
The Catenary Bar Screen from E & I Corporation,
A Div. of McNish Corporation, is used for the screening of solids from the influent of wastewater treatment plants. It is a heavy-duty, reliable and
easy-to-maintain unit for the protection of pumps
in stormwater pump stations, especially in lowlying areas. It has since been utilized extensively
in both municipal and industrial
Catenary Bar Screen from
wastewater treatment plants. Its chain
E & I Corporation, A Div. of
and rakes form a natural catenary loop
McNish Corporation
at the bottom of the screen to eliminate the need for any sprockets or chain guides below the liquid surface. This allows all maintenance to be performed from the
operating-floor level. 614/899-2282; www.eandicorp.com.
65
product focus
KUSTERS WATER,
DIVISION OF KUSTERS
ZIMA CORP., PROTECHTOR
ProTechtor multi-rake screens from Kusters
Water, division of Kusters Zima Corp., can be
used in nearly any screening application.
ProTechtor multi-rake screens
The multiple rake design, lubrication-free
from Kusters Water, division
lower bearings, automatic jam reversing
of Kusters Zima Corp.
and individually replaceable bars provide
reliable, low-maintenance operation. Materials of construction include
304 or 316 stainless steel. They are manufactured in the USA at a ISO
9001:2008 certified facility. 800/264-7005; www.kusterswater.com.
SCREENCO SYSTEMS
DUAL SCREEN SYSTEM
The high-capacity Dual Screen System from Screenco Systems is
constructed of aluminum with stainless steel screens, with a collection
sump and a high-capacity 6-inch drain. The screen
has two 3/8-inch gapped stainless steel bar screens
at opposing angles, with the front screen virtually
self-cleaning. It is a non-mechanical, simple way to
remove large pieces of trash, rocks and other debris
from the flow stream. This unit has a 4-inch
Dual Screen System from
telescoping inlet hose that moves laterally and
Screenco Systems
can be easily connected to any vacuum truck
or other flow stream. The system is portable, and the 19.5 square feet of
screening area allows for continued use and is easy to rake clean to the
garbage drain tray. It can treat over 500 gpm. Various-gapped screen
sizes are available. 208/790-8770; www.screencosystems.com.
WESTECH ENGINEERING
CLEANFLO MONOSCREEN
The CleanFlo Monoscreen from WesTech Engineering is a highly efficient, self-cleaning fine screen
that can be used in a wide variety of wastewater and
process water treatment applications. Using a reliable blade and drive system, it creates a progressive step
motion that allows the screenings to be evenly distributed while minimizing water level surges. The result is
a screenings capture ratio of 82.5 percent.
CleanFlo Monoscreen from
When matched with a CleanWash SWP/CPS
WesTech Engineering
dewatering unit, the combination maximizes
the solids capture rate while minimizing the amount of solids for disposal. 801/265-1000; www.westech-inc.com.
Sludge Handling/Hauling/
Disposal/Application
FLO TREND SYSTEMS SLUDGE MATE
Sludge Mate container filters from
Flo Trend Systems can be used to dewater a variety of sludge and waste, including alum, ferric, lagoon and digested
sludge, septic tank, grease-trap and slaughterhouse waste, wastewater residual, and
Sludge Mate container filters
sump bottoms. The closed-system design
from Flo Trend Systems
provides total odor control, no spillage,
reduced maintenance and weather independence. It has 10-gauge reinforced walls and a seven-gauge carbon steel floor. Available designs have
peaked roofs with gasketed bolted-down access hatches, drainage ports,
inlet manifolds, floor filters and side-to-side rolling tarps. They produce
cake that passes the paint-filter test, and transports straight to landfills
for dumping. They dewater on site and are available in roll-offs, trailer
mounted and tipping stand mounted in 5- to 40-cubic-yard sizes. 713/6990152; www.flotrend.com.
Sludge Heaters/Dryers/Thickeners
KRUGER USA BIOCON
The BioCon thermal dryer from Kruger USA processes wastewater
treatment plant biosolids into a marketable biosolids end product specific to local market needs. It is a dual-belt dryer designed for safe and
efficient operation, creating an end product dried to a minimum solids
content of 90 percent that meets Class A requirements. The end product
66
DEWATERING
Dewatering Unit Polymer Injection System
Sludge Pump Hoses Working Platform Hydraulic Trailer
AQUA-Zyme
Disposal Systems
Call us at (979) 245-5656
zymme@aqua-zyme.com
FINANCING
AVAILABLE
www.aqua-zyme.com
Grinders/Shredders
Hydra-Tech Pumps S4SHR-LP shredder pump
JWC Environmental 7-SHRED industrial grinder
Vaughan Company Triton screw centrifugal pumps
Grit Handling/Removal/Hauling
Paxxo Longofill continuous bag system
Schreiber Grit & Grease removal system
Screw Conveyors
Spiroflow Systems Flexible Screw Conveyors
Septage Receiving Stations
Bio-Microbics MyFAST HS-STP wastewater treatment
systems
Lakeside Equipment Corporation Raptor Septage
Acceptance Plant and Complete Plant
Screening Systems
Aqualitec Corp. Raketec bar screen
E & I Corporation, A Div. of McNish Corporation,
Catenary Bar Screen
JDV Equipment Corporation Screw Screen
Kusters Water, division of Kusters Zima Corp.,
ProTechtor screens
REE Products StationGuard bar screen
Screenco Systems Dual Screen System
Smith & Loveless SCHLOSS Mark CI Pin Rack Screen
WesTech Engineering CleanFlo Monoscreen
Sludge Handling/Hauling/Disposal/Application
Flo Trend Systems Sludge Mate container filters
Sludge Heaters/Dryers/Thickeners
Kruger USA BioCon thermal dryer
Solex Thermal Science pellet cooler
TITLE:
FACILITY NAME:
MAILING ADDRESS:
CITY:
STATE:
PHONE:
CELL PHONE:
FAX:
EMAIL:
ZIP:
O0815
67
case studies
By Craig Mandli
Problem
Problem
Solution
Solution
RESULT
The plant has more uptime
as the strainers effectively remove
large solids, and downstream treatment equipment operates within
normal parameters. Maintenance is reduced on related equipment in
the pumping system. 518/236-5659; www.acmeprod.com.
Problem
Solution
NuTerras detailed financial analysis compared the bases aerobic digestion operating data to BCR Environmentals CleanB system. NuTerra
installed a unit to treat waste activated sludge from the clarifier to Class B
standards before dewatering;
the final product is suitable for
land application.
RESULT
The project delivered
$75,000 in energy savings, a
95 percent reduction in
energy for biosolids treatment, and a total operating
cost savings of $105,000.
Payback on equipment is
projected at five years (six and a half years including installation). Projections indicate a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 480 tons
annually. Improved dewatering reduced the total biosolids volume by
12 truckloads annually, saving more than $10,000 per year in hauling
costs. Polymer consumption was reduced by 71 percent. 904/819-9170;
www.bcrenv.com.
68
RESULT
The system, in place for three years, uses no polymer and saved
$80,000 to $100,000 in pump and equipment upgrades. Electricity consumption is low, as it incorporates a 10 hp feed pump, a 50 hp main
drive and a 20 hp scroll drive, all tied into variable-frequency drives.
The city installed a second THK 200 for primary sludge thickening to
improve digester performance. 262/654-6006; www.centrisys.com.
Problem
Solution
RESULT
Fairfield is in the final stages of completing the order, assuring the
facilities of uninterrupted service. The city will issue the company
another contract for replacement of additional clarifier components at
other facilities. 219/872-3000; www.fairfieldservice.com.
Do It Once!
Do It Bright!
Sales, Rentals,
& Leasing Options
FOOD WASTE
Problem
WOODCHIPS
PLASTIC PELLETS
BIOSOLIDS
Problem
The Andover (Kansas) Wastewater Treatment Plant serves a community of 12,000 next to Wichita. The original plant was built in 1977 and
upgraded four times. In 1993, a coarse bar screen with 3/4-inch bar spacing
was installed at the headworks. By 2012, the plant began investigating fine
bar screens for greater solids removal.
Solution
Solution
The best kind of process improvement is one that pays for itself, says
Brian Walls, wastewater superintendent. In this case, the ongoing cost of
cleaning the aeration basin, removing rags from diffuser tubes, unclogging
return activated sludge pumps and improving the overall performance of
the process had an obvious payback calculation. The city selected the EnviroCare Flo-MultiRake Fine bar screen
with 1/4-inch bar spacing.
RESULT
The plant staff estimates the new
screen is removing two and a half
times more solids than the old coarse
screen. We had specified the bar screen
to be a turnkey, plug-and-go setup,
says Walls. When we got it, it was. We did the install ourselves and
had an electrician run the conduit and wiring to code. The control
panel was preprogrammed and only needed minor adjustments. The
bar screen fit perfectly in the pre-existing channel. 815/636-8306;
www.enviro-care.com.
Doug Vitovitch, chief facility operator, personally sourced and supervised the installation of a Volute ES302 following the results of a free
pilot study. PWTech and local representatives from EnviRep included all
necessary pumps and polymer preparation equipment,
and provided both remote
and on-site installation assistance to enable Vitovitch to
complete the entire municipal project from project
inception to installation and
successful startup in just
over six months.
RESULT
Chestnut Ridge began realizing immediate operational cost savings as the Volute press can run unattended while producing drier cake
than the old belt press. The 2 hp unit uses significantly less power and
wash water. The first two-hour maintenance is scheduled for February
2020, if needed. 443/648-3300; www.pwtech.us.
(continued)
tpomag.com August 2015
69
case studies
Problem
Problem
For years, the Williamson (New York) Wastewater Treatment Plant had
placed anaerobically digested biosolids from a contact stabilization treatment process into two drying beds or four reed bed lagoons. Typically, every
five to seven years the town would allow the reed beds to dry and remove the
deposited solids via shovels into trucks. The material was unloaded and
bulldozed into the nearby property the plant owned. This was time-consuming and labor-intensive, and rain made matters worse. There was also
concern about damaging the liners during the operation. Plant leaders
decided on a permanent dewatering operation and in the short term hauled
the dewatered material to a
composting facility in nearby
Ontario, New York.
Solution
RESULT
The 12-inch-diameter screw press has met performance expectations.
Throughput averages 25 gpm at an average of 2.15 percent influent solids
concentration, representing 260 pounds per hour of dry solids. It produces
a cake averaging 17.3 percent solids. Williamson is now exploring its
own composting operation. 518/527-5417; www.bdpindustries.com.
Solution
RESULT
The press has improved operations and accommodates increasing
plant flows by allowing the plant to quickly dewater the material with
less labor, reduced odors and lower hauling costs, all within a smaller
footprint. 715/247-3433; www.schwingbioset.com.
Problem
Solution
FREE subscription to
Treatment Plant Operator at
70
tpomag.com
RESULT
The facility can dewater 20,000 to 24,000 gpd with virtually no
maintenance. The 1/4 hp motor creates large energy savings and eliminates the diatomaceous earth used in the old process. 317/539-7304;
www.itrdewatering.com.
Problem
The City of Arlington, Washington, population 18,000, shifted its biosolids process to composting from land application to produce compost for
city road improvements, ball fields, parks, a cemetery and a community garden. The challenge was to keep target temperatures within best management practice (BMP) range in the face of variable moisture content in the
dewatered cake arriving at the facility, and variable moisture content in
wood waste used as an amendment.
Solution
RESULT
The reversing aeration
system allows the operator to
better control temperature
and odor. Operator Kevin Bleeck says his ideal mix is 2 yards of biosolids cake, 3 yards wood waste and 2.5 to 3 yards of compost overs (larger
wood particles that remain after product screening, providing porosity
and a source of carbon). 206/634-2625; www.compostsystems.com.
Extra! Extra!
Online Exclusives
Exclusive online content for
Treatment Plant Operator
www.tpomag.com/online_exclusives
71
product news
dual-tube assembly is engineered for optimum performance and pressure capability (110 psi). The intelligent control permits connection to
SCADA systems and other remote controllers. Optional advanced SCADA
communications command and status capabilities include start, stop,
motor status, prime and setpoint speed. Protocols include Profibus,
DPV1, Modbus RTU, Modbus-TCP, Ethernet/IP and Profinet RT I/O.
714/893-8529; www.blue-white.com.
The Spider 125 socket fusion tool with universal clamping from McElroy Manufacturing is designed for installations using 63 mm to 125 mm
PP pipe in overhead, vertical and tight workspaces. Universal clamping
accommodates any size pipe or coupling, eliminating the need for inserts.
The 15-pound tool comes with a carrying case and full assortment of
heaters and heat adapters. 918/836-8611; www.mcelroy.com/fusion.
72
wastewater:
product spotlight
By Ed Wodalski
The AS950 sampler
controller from Hach
Company features a
full-color, 2 1/2- by
3-inch display for
intu it ive, single screen programming,
USB drive compatibility, error alert and status screen to simplify
troubleshooting in wastewater treatment.
Single-screen programming eliminates the need for
AS950 from
scrolling through the menu, says
Hach Company
Jamie English, product manager,
Hach Company.
The other benefit is the status screen, she says. If you want to
know whats going on with the sampler has it missed any samples,
whens the next program going to start all you have to do is hit the
status button and all that information comes up.
Logged data such as sample history, cabinet temperature and sensor measurements can be downloaded directly from multiple samplers
onto a USB drive, eliminating the need for special cables or having to
carry a laptop to sampling locations in inclement weather.
The USB port also enables users with multiple samplers to program
one sampler, download the settings to a flash drive and upload it to the
next controller, eliminating the need to reprogram each sampler.
It saves a lot of time when you have the same program on multiple samplers, she says.
The AS950 works with existing Hach sampler bases and bottle configurations. It includes connections for several digital Hach sensors,
enabling pH samples to be taken at the discharge site or when levels reach
designated setpoints. Digital sensors can also measure rate of flow.
The high-speed, dual-roller sample pump has a 3/8-inch I.D. by
5/8-inch O.D. pump tube and flow rate of 1.25 gpm at 3 feet vertical
lift. Sample intervals can be set in single increments from 1 to 9,999
flow pulses or 1 to 9,999 mins in one-minute increments.
The memory stores up to 4,000 history entries for sample time
stamp, bottle number and sample status, up to 325,000 entries for
selected measurement channels and 2,000 events.
Optional IO9000 input/output modules can be used to set up relays
and alarms that can be set for system diagnostics and logging, such as
program end, sample complete, missed sample and full bottle.
The compact, portable sampler, designed for use in 18-inch manholes, can also be used to measure stormwater runoff and pretreatment
by industrial users to ensure permit requirements are being met.
800/227-4224; www.hach.com.
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73
water:
product spotlight
Hydraulically balanced diaphragm pump
designed for long life
By Ed Wodalski
Other features include
powder-coated housing for
corrosion resistance, plus/
minus 1 percent accuracy
regardless of pipeline pressure
fluctuations, separate or combined capacity adjustment for
maximum turndown and finetuned control from SCADA systems or other process signals.
Depending how the pump is
used, Carling recommends annual maintenance of the wetted parts, primarily the check mROY series of metering
pumps from Milton Roy
valves and diaphragm.
Many people can go years without maintenance, it really depends on the service, he says. Is it operating 24/7?
Are there a lot of particulates in the pump that are being pumped where
it might cause wear? Annual maintenance is always recommended as a
preventive, but the diaphragm will last about 10 years.
Pump options include motors and variable-speed drives based on system
requirements and installation condition, electronic capacity adjustment for
remote control and advanced technology diaphragm leak detection system.
Its really a unique item in the world of industrial products, Carling
says of the pump. Its fundamental design has been around for many
years, and yet, the mROY continues to evolve and is still an innovative
technology. 215/441-0800; www.miltonroy.com.
The mROY series of metering pumps from Milton Roy is the little
pump that can. Featuring a design life of 20 years, the low-maintenance
pumps are available in PVC, PVDF, 316 stainless steel and alloy 20 with
flow rates from 0.017 to 170 gph.
While improvements have been made over the years with various materials, advanced casting technologies, coating systems and control interfaces, the pump has at its core the dependable design that the industry
relies on, says Jim Carling, global product line manager for Milton Roy.
Applications include the injection of coagulants, flocculants, filter
aids, pH control chemicals, chemicals for taste and odor control, dechlorination and disinfectants such as sodium hypochlorite in the municipal
water treatment process.
Weighing about 65 pounds, the pump is 8 inches wide, 12 inches deep
and 18 inches high (including motor).
Key features include a hydraulically balanced diaphragm with a 96,000hour design and turndown ratios up to 100-to-1 for a full range of adjustments based on plant treatment requirements.
Most diaphragm pumps used in water treatment, or even peristaltic
pumps, are pressurized on one side, or in the case of a tube, on the inside,
he says. On the outside or backside of the diaphragm its atmospheric.
So the diaphragm or tube is containing all of the pressure. With the
hydraulically balanced diaphragm you have the process fluid on one side
and hydraulic fluid on the other. So the diaphragm is balanced between
two pressurized fluids. Its under very low stress. Youre not stretching
anything. Youre not compressing anything. All youre doing is flexing a
piece of Teflon.
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The team members are the greatest resource at this plant. They do the work.
Im support staff. I coordinate what they do, and the best way for me to do that
is to listen to what they have to say.
Nate Tillis
Operations and Maintenance Supervisor
Beloit (Wis.) Water Pollution Control Treatment Facility
74
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75
worth noting
people/awards
The Village of Roberts received the Wastewater System of the Year award
from the Wisconsin Rural Water Association.
The City of Eustis Wastewater Treatment Plant received the 2015 Earle
B. Phelps First Place Award (advanced facilities less than 5 mgd category)
from the Florida Water Environment Association for outstanding performance and professionalism.
Michael Finoia was named the new wastewater treatment superintendent for the plant in Southington, Connecticut. He replaces John DeGioia,
who retired after 37 years. Finoia had been the wastewater treatment superintendent in Fairfield, Connecticut.
Bhavani M. Rathi was named project manager for the Wastewater Practice Group of Wright-Pierce, a water, wastewater and infrastructure engineering firm serving the Northeast.
Caitlyn S. Butler, an assistant professor at the University of Massachusetts, received a $500,000 five-year grant from the National Science Foundation to conduct research on algae and bacteria and ways to improve wastewater
treatment. The grant funds her work on algal-sludge granules, which can
produce oxygen during wastewater treatment, reducing electricity use while
also cleaning the wastewater.
Brett Morgan was named the head of the wastewater treatment plants
at Hazel Hurst and Lantz Corners, Pennsylvania.
Jim Schreiber retired as director of the Hudson (Wisconsin) Wastewater Utility after serving there for nearly 40 years.
events
Aug. 13-14
Rocky Mountain Water Environment Association/Grand
Junction Water/Wastewater Conference, Two Rivers Conference
Center, Grand Junction, Colorado. Call 970/249-3369.
Aug. 24-28
Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association Conference and
Exhibition, InterContinental Hotel, Miami, Florida. Visit www.
fsawwa.org.
Johnny Brean, water operations superintendent for the Ramona Municipal Water District in Southern California, retired after nearly 30 years with
the district.
education
AWWA
The City of Wichita Falls, Texas, received the Alan Plummer Environmental Sustainability Award for its water reuse project.
The Pace Water System in Florida received the Excellence Award from
Water Company of America for billing accuracy and high standards of excellence in ratepayer equity and resource management.
Powdersville Water in South Carolina received the Directors Award in the
Partnership for Safe Waters Distribution System Optimization Program.
Arkansas
76
California
The California-Nevada of Section of AWWA is offering these courses:
Aug. 3 Groundwater Workshop, West Sacramento
Aug. 4 Customer Service Workshop, West Sacramento
Aug. 7 Backflow Refresher, West Sacramento
Aug. 8 Exam BF, Fresno
Aug. 8 Exam BF, West Sacramento
Aug. 14 Exam BF, Pleasanton
Aug. 14 Sustainability 101 Workshop, Rancho Cucamonga
Aug. 17 Introduction to Water Treatment, Rancho Cucamonga
Aug. 17 Water Quality Workshop, West Sacramento
Aug. 18 Regulations Workshop, West Sacramento
Aug. 22 Exam BF, Carson City, Nevada
Aug. 22 Exam BF, Sunnyvale
Aug. 24 Backflow Tester Course, Rancho Cucamonga
Aug. 25 Water Use Efficiency Grade 2 Workshop, West Sacramento
Aug. 29 Exam BF, Rancho Cucamonga
Visit www.ca-nv-awwa.org.
Florida
Ohio
The Ohio Water Environment Association is offering a One Water Utility Management Workshop Aug. 18 in Lewis Center. Visit www.ohiowea.org.
Oklahoma
The Oklahoma Environmental Training Center in Midwest City is offering these courses:
Aug 3-4 C Water Operator
Aug. 5-6 C Wastewater Operator
Aug. 17 Trenching and Shoring
Aug. 17-20 A/B Wastewater Operator
Aug. 19 Confined Space Entry
Aug. 24-28 OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER Class
Aug. 31-Sept. 4 Operator Bootcamp
Visit www.rose.edu.
Accurate Environmental in Oklahoma is offering these courses:
Aug. 4-6 D Water & Wastewater Operator, Stillwater
Aug. 7 Open Exam Session, Tulsa
Aug. 12 General Refresher for Water Operators, Tulsa
Aug. 12-13 C Water Operator, Tulsa
Aug. 14 Open Exam Session, Stillwater
Aug. 18-20 D Water & Wastewater Operator, Tulsa
Visit www.accuratelabs.com/classschedule.php.
Texas
Illinois
New Jersey
The New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station Office of Continuing
Professional Education is offering these courses:
Aug. 11 Study and Exam Skills for Licensing and Professional
Certification Testing, North Brunswick
Aug. 18-19 Fundamentals of Generators and Transformers, New
Brunswick
Aug. 19 Water Sampling and Laboratory Procedures, Dover
Aug. 25 O&M of Water Treatment Filters, North Brunswick
Visit www.cpe.rutgers.edu.
New York
The New York Section of AWWA is offering a Distribution System O&M
course Aug. 5 in Melville. Visit www.nysawwa.org.
North Carolina
The North Carolina Section of AWWA-WEA is offering these courses:
Aug. 3-5 Advanced Management and Supervisory Leadership
Training, Greensboro
Aug. 24-28 Eastern Biological Wastewater Operators School,
Raleigh
Aug. 25-28 2015 Physical/Chemical Wastewater Operators School,
Raleigh
Utah/Colorado
The Intermountain Section of AWWA is offering an Administrative Professionals Training Women in Industry seminar Aug. 13 in West Jordan,
Utah. Visit www.ims-awwa.org.
Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of Engineering Professional Development is offering a Purchasing and Inventory Control course
Aug. 26 in Madison. Visit www.epdweb.engr.wisc.edu.
The Wisconsin Rural Water Association is offering these courses:
Aug. 6 Cross Connection Hazards and Your Water System, Kaukauna
Aug. 6 Emergency Response Plan/Waiver Assessments, Kaukauna
Aug. 13 Cross Connection Hazards and Your Water System,
Mount Horeb
Aug. 13 Emergency Response Plan/Waiver Assessments, Mount Horeb
Visit www.wrwa.org.
The Wisconsin Section of the Central States Water Environment Association is offering a Pretreatment Seminar Aug. 11, location to be determined.
Visit www.cswea.org.
TPO invites your national, state or local association to post notices and news
items in this column. Send contributions to editor@tpomag.com.
tpomag.com August 2015
77
78
Joe Guinn
Wastewater Superintendent
City of Decatur WWTP
Decatur, TX
ors
Operat
re
e
h
w
y
Ever Trust
DESCRIPTION
Small-Frame System
Small-Frame System
Small-Frame System
Small-Frame System
Large-Frame System
Large-Frame System
Large-Frame System
POLYMER OUTPUT
0.01 to 1 gph
0.01 to 1 gph
0.02 to 2 gph
0.02 to 2 gph
0.045 to 4.5 gph
0.08 to 8 gph
0.08 to 8 gph
STOCK #
EACH
27805
$ 6,811.00
27807
6,811.00
27808
6,811.00
27809
7,816.00
28377
8,632.00
28378
9,052.00
28379
10,772.00
For more information and ordering instructions, see pages 160-161 in Master Catalog 126.
Repair parts
available!
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