Waste & Wastewater Characteristics to Minimise OPEX and Maximise Energy Generation
Burgess, A., Smyth, M., Forgacs, G. and Elliott, C.,
Aqua Enviro, UK
(free)
Abstract
To realise OPEX savings and maximise energy generation it is being increasingly recognised that a detailed understanding of wastewater, feedstock and sludge characteristics is required. The data generated is of most use when inputted in to predictive, calibrated models that allow the user to simulate changes to the configuration of a plant, which alter the characteristics and subsequent running costs and revenues. Once verified the data gathered can be used to drive investment decisions and/or process operational strategies.
In this paper, we outline the standard and specialised test methods for waste and wastewater characterisation that can be used to populate & verify models such as BioWin. These include FRACTIONATION of: 1) Solids, 2) COD, 3) nitrogen and 4) phosphorus, as well as, 5) methods for evaluating total and available energy potential and, 6) the quantification of inhibitory compounds.
Sankey diagrams have been used to demonstrate the potential impact upon energy consumption and generation for a theoretical wastewater treatment works with a PE of 230,000 and taking sludge imports of 15 tonnes of dry solids.
Keywords
Wastewater fractionation Anaerobic digestion, CAPEX, OPEX, Wastewater characterisation, Wastewater treatment.
