If you’re seeking easy solutions to improve the beauty and functionality of your property’s dam, aerobic wastewater treatment systems and products are becoming increasingly popular with rural farm owners across Australia, and they might be the solution for you as well.
Implementing certain items as part of a wider wastewater management system could transform inefficient and contaminated waterways into a clean, safe environment suitable for recreational and agricultural activities.
In this article, we’ll look at the various aerobic wastewater treatment products available on the market. First, let’s define aerobic wastewater treatment.
What is Aerobic Wastewater Treatment?
Increased oxygen levels are used in aerobic wastewater treatment techniques to promote the development of beneficial microorganisms that degrade organic pollutants and other water pollutants.
Aerobic treatments are highly efficient in eliminating toxic materials from the water body, guaranteeing the safety of the recycled water for agricultural purposes on your land.
The process of adding more oxygen to wastewater is usually very straightforward, even if the equipment involved might be highly sophisticated. An air blower or nanobubble aeration system are examples of mechanical aeration devices that are used to mix oxygen into wastewater.
The growth of microorganisms that feed on the organic matter in the wastewater and convert it into carbon dioxide and biomass is accelerated by the elevated dissolved oxygen levels in the wastewater.
Comparing Aerobic and Anaerobic Treatment
Understanding the differences between aerobic and anaerobic treatment can help you make an informed decision about the best system for your needs:
- Aerobic Treatment: Requires oxygen and uses aerobic microorganisms to break down organic matter. It is faster and more efficient for reducing organic content and BOD.
- Anaerobic Treatment: Does not require oxygen and relies on anaerobic bacteria to decompose organic matter. It produces biogas (methane and carbon dioxide), which can be used as a renewable energy source. However, it is generally slower than aerobic treatment and produces less biomass.
Why is Aerobic Wastewater Treatment Important?
Wastewater treatment is crucial for safeguarding both human health and the environment, in addition to enhancing the beauty of the water feature on your property.Significant local environmental problems including water contamination and greenhouse gas emissions are caused by untreated wastewater.
According to International Water Association approximately 80% of wastewater is dumped straight into global waterways, which not only presents risks to human health but also environmental and climate-related concerns.
Wastewater from your property should be properly treated and disposed of to prevent pollution and guarantee that the water is suitable for recreational use.
Anaerobic Treatment Systems
High-strength wastewater with high organic load can usually be treated most effectively by anaerobic treatment systems, which is why industries like food processing and breweries which require a lot of water use them.
These processes work best in settings where the wastewater’s biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) is noticeably higher.
Anaerobic systems efficiently minimise the amount of sludge that is produced during the breakdown of organic matter in the absence of oxygen. They also lessen the creation of undesirable, odorous bio-gases like ammonia and methane.
Consider VitaStim Nitrifiers as a reliable and affordable solution to lower dangerous ammonia levels in your dam.
Furthermore, the smaller volume of sludge means less environmental effect and less disposal expenses.
How Aerobic Treatment Systems Work
In an aerobic treatment system, oxygen is continuously supplied to the wastewater to maintain a consistent dissolved oxygen level, which is vital for the microorganisms’ activity. The key components of these systems include:
- Aeration tanks: Where wastewater is mixed with air to provide the necessary oxygen.
- Mechanical aeration devices: Such as air blowers or compressors, introduce oxygen into the system.
- Activated sludge: A crucial part of the process, where aerobic microorganisms float freely in the water consuming organic material.
Different Kinds of Aerobic Wastewater Treatment Systems
The wastewater treatment market is saturated with different systems, each offering distinct mechanisms and advantages:
1. Traditional Activated Sludge Systems
In this method, wastewater enters an aeration tank where aerobic microorganisms decompose substances. The resulting biological clumps are then separated from the treated water in a sedimentation tank. This approach is very effective for treating all sorts of wastewater. It is commonly used in both municipal and industrial settings.
2. Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors (MBBRs)
MBBRs utilise plastic biofilm carriers that float in aeration tanks providing surface area for biofilm growth to enhance the treatment process. These reactors are particularly efficient in treating wastewater with levels of oxygen demand (BOD) and can manage varying loads effectively.
3. Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs)
MBRs combine activated sludge with membrane filtration to produce high-quality effluent. This technology is well suited for applications requiring discharge standards thanks to its design which makes it suitable for properties with limited space.
4. Biological Trickling Filters
These systems utilise a fixed bed of media to support a biofilm that treats the wastewater by breaking down contaminants when air or water passes over the media.
Biological trickling filters are quite versatile as they work well for both purifying air and water.
Fixed Bed Bioreactors (FBBRs)
FBBRs are made up of chambers filled with material which allows for a large surface area for biofilm development. These setups generate sludge efficiently in comparison to techniques and can be used for different types of wastewater while accommodating extra biological processes.
They are designed to support the growth of biofilms on fixed surfaces, which in turn facilitate the degradation of organic pollutants and other contaminants present in the wastewater.
Benefits of Aerobic Wastewater Treatment Systems
Aerobic wastewater treatment systems come with a range of benefits making them a great option, here are some of the perks.
- High-Quality Output: These systems generate secondary output that is safe for various purposes like irrigation and recreational activities.
- Odourless Sludge: The sludge produced by processes is free from odours and can be utilised as a nutrient-rich fertiliser.
- Efficiency: Aerobic systems are effective in handling large amounts of matter, ensuring thorough wastewater treatment.
- Environmental Compliance: By using these systems you can ensure that your wastewater discharge meets regulations, ultimately safeguarding the local ecosystem.
To maximise the performance of your wastewater treatment system consider these suggestions;
- Upkeep: It’s important to regularly maintain all components, such as aeration devices and tanks to ensure they are in proper working condition.
- Monitoring Oxygen Levels: Maintain a consistent level of dissolved oxygen to support the activity of microorganisms.
Optimising Your Aerobic Wastewater Treatment System
To get the most out of your aerobic wastewater treatment system, consider the following tips:
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure that all components, such as aeration devices and tanks, are regularly maintained and functioning correctly.
- Monitoring Oxygen Levels: Keep a consistent dissolved oxygen level to support the microorganisms’ activity.
- System Upgrades: Consider upgrading to more advanced technologies, such as MBRs, for higher efficiency and better water quality.
- Professional Support: Engage with water treatment professionals for regular system checks and optimisation advice.
Conclusion
Exploring aerobic wastewater treatment systems offers a genuine solution to pretty much all your wastewater treatment difficulties. It’s worthwhile taking the time to thoroughly examine the options available on the current market.
With a little bit of investment, the money initially spent can drastically improve the quality of the water which has been lying stagnant in your dam, and transform it from a smelly, sludgy mess to a viable source of life for recreational and farming activities.
The options are abundant, ranging from activated sludge systems, moving bed bioreactors and membrane bioreactors.
The bottom line is that aerobic treatments are dependable and effective, as long as you take the time to properly survey the unique needs and requirements specific to your land and property.