BNR/ENR Model Calibration Experience Indicates Deviations in Key Modeling Parameters

Over the past few years, utilization of advanced activated sludge process simulation models such as BioWin and GPS-X has increased significantly. These process simulation models are powerful tools for evaluation, optimization, and design of BNR/ENR plants. When considering stringent effluent nutrient permit limits, particularly ENR limits, utilization of a properly developed and calibrated model using site specific wastewater characterization is highly recommended. Site specific wastewater characterization and calibration of the model is critical to achieving accurate simulation results for ENR plants. This paper will summarize the results of these efforts, provide a comparison of the site specific data to BioWin defaults, illustrate some of the impacts and key issues to BNR/ENR modeling and design, and provide recommendations for improving these efforts.