ENVIRO-AIRE Solves Wastewater Treatment Needs Of Resort

Lauloa Maalaea Resort in Hawaii needed to upgrade its wastewater treatment system ahead of tighter effluent requirements associated with a forthcoming permit update. The existing treatment unit was installed below grade within the resort’s parking lot, and limited available space meant the replacement system had to fit within the same footprint.

The project also required careful attention to aesthetics. Located in a highly traveled vacation area, the resort wanted the new treatment system tucked away and virtually unnoticeable to guests and residents. Infiltrator needed to develop a solution that could meet more stringent treatment requirements while minimizing both site disruption and visual impact.

The resort selected a 21,000 GPD Infiltrator ENVIRO-AIRE Extended Aeration Treatment Unit. The existing system was completely removed, and a new foundation was installed before the replacement system was put in place. A building was then constructed around the treatment unit to keep the equipment secure and concealed.

The extended aeration system uses aeration followed by clarification and disinfection. Incoming wastewater enters a flow equalization chamber before duplex pumps send it to the aeration chamber. Duplex positive displacement blowers and an air distribution manifold provide air for the diffusers, airlift pumps, and scum skimmer. A hopper-style clarifier with baffling promotes uniform solids settling, while a positive sludge return system sends settled sludge back to the aeration chamber. A plug-flow chlorine contact chamber provides disinfection following clarification.