Optimizing Sludge Dewatering by Using the KemiCond® Process with the Bucher Hydraulic

In many wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) the dewatering of sewage sludge is an essential and costly part of the process. The sludge produced at the plant must often be hauled to be used on farmlands or placed on landfills and hauling costs can be substantial. By achieving a high concentration of dry solids (DS) of the dewatered sludge and thereby reducing sludge volumes, savings can be made. At the Käppala WWTP in Stockholm Sweden, a new method for sludge volume reduction has been developed; the KemiCond® process in combination with the HPS 5007 Bucher hydraulic filter press. The method has replaced conventional belt filter presses and increased the DS concentration of the dewatered sludge from 19% to 42% and reduced sludge volumes by more than 50%. The method also functions as a potent pathogen and odor control mproving working conditions at the plant and facilitates farmland use of the sludge.