Tutorial: New Technology Utilizes The Collection System As An Active Part Of The Treatment Process

By: Rich Schici, In-Pipe Technology Company

The collection system is often viewed as a means to transport the wastewater to the treatment facility. Many hours of retention time in the collection system have provided nonbeneficial impacts to the wastewater treatment process. Growth of filamentous bacteria; sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB), which lead to the production of hydrogen sulfide; and odor causing bacteria dominate the microbiology of the collection system.

Microorganisms act to catalyze the oxidation of biodegradable organics and other contaminants generating byproducts such as carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. Bacteria grow and divide, producing biosolids (sludge) and clean water. This metabolism occurs in wastewater treatment plants around the world. In an effort to utilize the miles of existing pipe and convert the passive sewer system into a meaningful treatment step, one company has developed a technology and service to utilize the collection system as an active part of the wastewater treatment process.