ORGANICA

Pros & Cons of RAS Utilization

(Return Activated Sludge)
 Activated Sludge Process Diagram
Pre-
treatment Aeration Basin
Clarifiers

Suspended Mixed Liquor

2,000 – 3,000 mg/l)

Returns Activated
Sludge (RAS)

Sludge
Handling

Key operational parameters of typical Activated Sludge systems are high suspended solids (or biomass) concentrations, and the recycling of
biomass form the clarifiers back to the aeration tanks to ensure consistent concentrations of biomass in the system (RAS – Return Activated
Sludge). These high suspended solids concentrations result in a low Alpha Factor index, or low oxygen transfer efficiency – meaning, the blowers
that provide the oxygen must work hard to consistently meet the required dissolved oxygen (DO) set points.

© 2014 Organica Water 2

 FCR Process
Pre-
treatment
FCR Reactors

Discfilter

Attached Growth Mixed

Liquor
(100 – 300 mg/l)

Sludge
Handling

The FCR process replaces the conventional aeration basins. Due to the lower concentrations of suspended growth and the elimination of Return
Activated Sludge (RAS), clarifiers can be replaced with much smaller discfilters to meet the TSS effluent requirements. This fixed biomass results in
a longer sludge age, leading to better biofilm characteristics, and helping to reduce excess sludge production in the system.

© 2014 Organica Water 3

Elimination of RAS - Benefits

 Stops proliferation of suspended growth

organisms
 Reduced clarifier solids loading
 Potential use of discfilter
 Improved aeration efficiency (α factor)

 Extends effective SRT

 Simplifies operation
 Reduced capital cost (pumps & pipes)
 Reduced operating costs (less pumping,
reduced aeration, less sludge production)

© 2014 Organica Water 4

Elimination of RAS - Disadvantages

Slightly reduced solids

concentration in sludge (WAS)

Only indirect control of SRT/MCRT

Required for biological phosphorus

removal

© 2014 Organica Water 5

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