De Las Casas, Carla

Carla De Las Casas is a professional engineer in the state of California, a manager for client services with Brown and Caldwell in the San Francisco Bay Area. Carla has over 13 years of experience in the engineering process and design practice. She focuses on assisting clients with treatment process development, troubleshooting and permitting for both municipal and industrial clients. Carla earned a bachelor of science in mechanical-industrial engineering from the Technological University of Panama, and masters and a doctorate in environmental engineering from the University of Arizona.

Titles from this speaker

Reclaimed Water for Data Center Direct Evaporative Cooling Systems

Abstract

Data centers have significant cooling water demands which are conventionally met using potable water. When available, use of reclaimed water can alleviate stress on freshwater sources. Since most data centers use direct evaporative cooling (DEC) systems, challenges associated with the use of reclaimed water need to be addressed. This paper explores strategies to utilize reclaimed water in data center DEC systems, relieving water stress from ecosystems and communities while (1) mitigating potential risks, (2) utilizing innovative and efficient pre-treatment systems for effective implementation, and (3) assessing relevant regulatory pathways. Case studies of utilities that provide reclaimed water to data centers for use in DEC, and case studies of existing reclaimed water facilities that could partner with data centers to implement these systems are also provided.

Data center equipment generates heat that is most often cooled by direct evaporative cooling (DEC). This consumes water that can heavily impact local water supplies. In locations where reclaimed water is available, its use should be encouraged and prioritized to conserve potable water resources. This paper discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with the use of reclaimed water in DEC systems that may be preventing widespread implementation.

SpeakerCavanaugh, Shannon

Presentation time

13:30:00

13:50:00

Session time

13:30:00

15:00:00

SessionThe Future of Datacenters: From Water Users to Water Stewards

Session locationRoom S501d - Level 5

TopicIntermediate Level, Sustainability and Climate Change, Water Reuse and Reclamation

Author(s)

Cavanaugh, Shannon

Author(s)S. Cavanaugh 1; C. De Las Casas 2 ; R. Maco 1; A. Parker 3; S. Cavanaugh 1;

Author affiliation(s)Brown and Caldwell 1; Brown and Caldwell 2 ; Brown and Caldwell 1; Brown and Caldwell, Walnut Creek, CA 3; Brown and Caldwell, Walnut Creek, CA 1;

SourceProceedings of the Water Environment Federation

Document typeConference Paper

PublisherWater Environment Federation

Print publication date Oct 2023

DOI10.2175/193864718825159111

Volume / Issue

Content sourceWEFTEC

Word count10

Description: When FOG is 'FROG' (Fats, Rocks, Oils and Grease): A Pilot Study on Sludge...

When FOG is 'FROG' (Fats, Rocks, Oils and Grease): A Pilot Study on Sludge Degritting and FOG Screening

Abstract

East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) processes high-strength waste, which includes fats, oil and grease (FOG), food waste and other organics at their Main Wastewater Treatment Plant as part of their resource recovery program. FOG and waste feedstocks typically include a fair amount of grit, rocks and other unwanted debris that are difficult to separate and remove. These unwanted materials cause excessive operational and maintenance problems and grit build-up in the digesters. EBMUD and Brown and Caldwell designed a pilot study to assess the feasibility and performance of available screening and degritting equipment on blended sludge, and to develop design criteria for a full-scale facility. A double disc pump, sludge screens (5-mm and 10-mm), and a cyclone-classifier were evaluated on 5-percent blended sludge. In addition, screens were evaluated on FOG deliveries. This paper documents the key findings from the equipment evaluation and presents the recommendations made for the full-scale facility.

SpeakerDe Las Casas, Carla

Presentation time

11:10:00

11:30:00

Session time

10:30:00

11:30:00

SessionUnderstanding Constituents of FOG and Impacts on Digestion and Dewatering

Session number312

TopicBiosolids and Residuals, Energy Production, Conservation, and Management, Facility Operations and Maintenance, Research and Innovation

Author(s)

C. De Las Casas