The activated sludge adjustment method is a crucial step in the wastewater treatment process, involving providing an appropriate growth environment for the microorganisms in the activated sludge to ensure their effective degradation of organic pollutants in the wastewater. The following is a detailed explanation of the activated sludge adjustment method:

An Overview of the Activated Sludge Adjustment Method

The activated sludge process is an aerobic biological treatment method for wastewater, first invented in the UK by Edward Ardern and William T. Lockett in 1914. This method involves artificial aeration, where wastewater is mixed and aerated with activated sludge (microorganisms) to decompose organic pollutants within the wastewater. Subsequently, the biological solids are separated from the treated wastewater and can be partially returned to the aeration tank as needed.

Step 2: Main Steps for Activated Sludge Adjustment

Initial Preparations

Ensure Equipment: Prior to tuning, inspect the oil quality, level, tightness, and operational status of equipment such as blowers and aeration devices to ensure proper functioning.

2. Clean and Leak Test Biochemical Ponds: Conduct cleaning and leak testing on biochemical ponds to ensure they meet operational requirements.

3. Preparing materials: This includes sludge, carbon sources (such as sugar, flour), nitrogen sources (such as urea), phosphorus sources (such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate), as well as necessary testing equipment (such as dissolved oxygen meters, pH meters, etc.).

Sludge Addition

Based on the bio-degradability of the wastewater and the treatment requirements, calculate and add an appropriate amount of dry sludge. For wastewater with good bio-degradability, the dosage can be reduced; however, for wastewater with poor bio-degradability or high COD and ammonia nitrogen levels, the dosage should be increased.

2. Preferably use similar wastewater sludge as seed sludge to shorten the time for sludge cultivation and acclimatization.

3. Debugging Process

Control Parameters: During the debugging process, strict control of water temperature, pH levels, and dissolved oxygen must be maintained to ensure they fluctuate within the appropriate range.

Step-by-Step domestication: Initially, utilize easily degradable wastewater such as domestic sewage or fecal water for cultivation. Once sludge formation occurs and reaches a certain concentration, gradually introduce the industrial wastewater to be treated for domestication. During the domestication process, incrementally increase the proportion of industrial wastewater until complete acceptance is achieved.

3. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections to measure sludge concentration, sludge index, SV30, dissolved oxygen content, and other parameters of the mixed solution, as well as the BOD5, CODcr, and suspended solids (SS) of the incoming and outgoing water. Adjust operating parameters promptly based on inspection results.

4. Enhanced Operations

Based on debugging results and practical situations, adjustments have been made to process units such as aeration tanks and sedimentation tanks to enhance treatment efficiency and economic benefits.

2. Timely discharge of excess sludge maintains the optimal concentration of sludge and microbial activity within the system.

III. Important Notes for the Adjustment of Activated Sludge

Maintain Water Quality Stability: Prevent toxic and harmful substances from entering the treatment system to avoid harming microorganisms.

2. Rational Load Control: Organic load should be gradually increased from low to high, in a step-by-step manner, to avoid excessive impact on microorganisms.

Enhanced Monitoring and Management: Regularly inspect and analyze key indicators of the treatment system, promptly identify issues, and take corrective actions.

4. Emphasis on Sludge Management: Properly dispose of excess sludge to prevent secondary environmental pollution.

In summary, the activated sludge adjustment method is a complex and meticulous process, requiring comprehensive consideration of various factors and corresponding measures to ensure successful adjustment. Through scientific adjustment and optimized operational management, the advantages of the activated sludge process can be fully utilized to achieve efficient wastewater treatment.