Retrofitting Thermal Hydrolysis Process into an Existing WRRF with Anaerobic Digestion and Combined Heat and Power: Benefits and Challenges

The existing anaerobic digestion capacity at the HRSD Atlantic Water Resource Recovery Facility (ARRF) will be substantially expanded by the implementation of a thermal hydrolysis process (THP), and will benefit from potential increased solids loading rate and reduce retention time required for post-THP digestion. There are many opportunities to reuse and repurpose existing solids handling infrastructure which will minimize capital costs. However, there are substantial considerations for the integration of the THP and the requirements of the pre-THP solids processing and support systems required for THP. Additionally, the startup and commissioning of THP and Class A digesters, while maintaining uninterrupted solids processing capabilities at the facility requires special attention. Installing the Cambi B6-4 THP at the ARRF provides for future increases in solids handling capability, and will produce a high-quality Class A biosolids product while maximizing the use of available digester and existing equipment.