Unique Side-By-Side Pilot Testing of Belt Filter Press and Centrifuge Requires Careful Planning, Organization and Control by Authority Personnel

In 2007, the Authority was a recipient of the USEPA National Exemplary Biosolids Management Award in the Large Operating Projects category for its Fertilizer Manufacturing Division (FMD). Though, already a leader in the production, marketing and sales of OCEANGRO®, an organic fertilizer, the Authority realizes that a continuation of effective biosolids management program required that the Authority perform a comprehensive review of its biosolids management practices. The Authority commissioned the preparation of a comprehensive Biosolids Management Plan (BMP).The BMP recommended that pilot testing of centrifuges be performed. The Authority working with the Consultant modified this recommendation to “side-by-side” pilot testing of belt filter presses and centrifuges be performed. This pilot testing was performed over a 4-week period in May 2007. For the Authority's sludge belt filter presses were found to dewater the biosolids to a level which is comparable to centrifuges. Also, very accurate data was obtained from the pilot testing effort, allowing the Authority to confirm cost data produced as a part of the BMP preparation.