Integrating Aeration Control Solves Underperformance

Secondary aeration is the core of the treatment process in most municipal water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs). Operators have two objectives in optimizing performance: process and energy improvement. Automation is sought out to help achieve these goals.Unfortunately, the promise of advanced process and control technology is not met in some facilities. Process and aeration systems fail to meet design objectives or projected energy consumption values. Operators struggle to maintain stable operation. These problems often are compounded by discrepancies between design and current loads. Internal side streams and industrial slug loads add to operational challenges. Ineffective control strategies can be the cause of process problems, excess energy consumption, and considerable operator aggravation in many facilities.A procedure has been developed to determine and implement corrective measures for these problems. A combination of data collection, analysis, and control implementation has proven successful in providing stability and efficiency.