Dissolved Oxygen Control System At Wastewater Plant Reduces Costs For Electrical Power, Sludge Removal, And Chemicals

By Mark J. Howarth, Superintendent and Timothy J. O’Dell, Assistant Superintendent, Water Pollution Control Plant, The Township of Morris, NJ

Two wastewater plants in The Township of Morris, New Jersey have experienced significant savings in electricity costs, sludge removal, and chemical usage. Savings result from installation of an effective system to control dissolved oxygen levels in the plants’ aerated digestion tanks. Regulated DO levels optimize the rate of tank aeration and reduce pumping requirements. They also provide a uniform and stable environment for the microorganisms that process the wastewater, which reduces sludge production and chemical usage.