Subject Code/Name : CME 366 / EQUIPMENT FOR POLLUTION CONTROL

Regulation : R-2021
Year/Sec : THIRD YEAR
Semester : SIXTH SEMESTER

UNIT – II
EQUIPMENT FOR WATER POLLUTION CONTROL

Operational principles and Design criteria of Flash mixers, Flocculators, Clarifiers, Sand Filters,
Adsorption Columns, Aerators, Air blowers, Distillation units, Centrifugal and Reciprocating Pumps,
Chemical dosing systems, Motors, Pipes, valves and Fittings.- Filed visit to a wastewater treatment plant.

1. Operation of Flash Mixers in Waste water management

 Flash or rapid mixing stage consists of adding chemicals to raw water to faster coagulation,
attracting particles which do not settle or are not filtered.
 A rapid (or flash) mixer is used to uniformly disperse and blend chemicals, such as coagulant aids,
chlorine, and sulfur dioxide, into the process stream.
 These chemicals, either in solution or slurry form, are added for the purpose of neutralization,
odor & color control and removal of heavy metals from water.
 These impurities are removed by coagulants, such as ferric chloride (FeCl3), PAC (poly aluminum
chloride Al2Cl(OH)5), aluminum sulphate (Al2SO4)

 The duration of the flash mixing stage is a key factor and determines the quality of the whole
process. Too short retention time will not ensure a homogeneous distribution of the chemicals
within the basin volume, resulting in an unsuccessful reaction.
 On the other hand, too long retention time will lead to coagulant overdosing, preventing the
 process efficiency.
 Therefore, it is essential to carefully calculate the residence time taking into consideration several
parameters including the reactor volume and the water flow rate.
Process
 Initially in flash mixer container the coagulant chemicals are added to the waste water and the
water is mixed very quickly.
 Mechanically operated rapid stirrer is used to evenly distribute the chemicals in waste water.
 After mixing coagulation occurs, the coagulants chemicals neutralize the fine particles in the
water, allowing the particles to fuse together and form large clumps.
 And after the process the water is sent to the Flocculators for further process.
Design Consideration of Flash Mixer
 Temporal mean velocity gradient, G = 300 to 600 sec -1
 Power requirements = 1 to 3 watts per m3 per hour
 RPM of Impeller = 400 to 1400 rpm
 Ratio of tank dia. To impeller dia. = 5:1 to 3:1
 Tangential velocity of impeller = 3 m/s at blade tip
 Ratio of tank height to tank dia. = 1:1 to 3:1
2. Operation of Flocculators in Waste water management
 Flocculation is a water treatment process where solids form larger clusters, or flocs, to be removed
from water. This process can happen spontaneously, or with the help of chemical agents.
 It is a common method of storm-water treatment, wastewater treatment, and in the purification of
drinking water.
 Flocculation involves in adding chemicals to the wastewater in sequence and allowing tiny solid
particles to collect together in a larger mass called a floc. As a treatment of wastewater,
flocculation is carried out in stages.

STAGE - 1
 Suspended solid particles in wastewater are negatively charged. In the first stage of flocculation, a
coagulant like aluminium sulphate is added to the wastewater.
 The positively charged coagulant molecules neutralize the negatively charged solid particles
suspended in the water.
  Neutralising these particles paves the way for them to flocculate together into a larger mass.
STAGE - 2
 The wastewater must be agitated with mixers. High energy mixing is required initially to ensure
that the coagulant spreads throughout the water.
 When flocculation is in progress the mixing energy is reduced to prevent the mass of particles
from separating again.
STAGE - 3
 Once floc is beginning to form, a polymer chemical is added to the wastewater. This makes the
mass of particles collecting together and form bigger in size, so that it does not easily disintegrate
even when the water is slightly agitated.
STAGE 4
 After flocculation is complete, the large solid masses can be removed from the wastewater stream.
 This is done either through settling where the floc drops to the bottom for removal or through the
use of filters which capture the floc in the filter material
Design criteria for Flocculators
 Temporal mean velocity gradient, G = 10 to 75 sec. -1
 Power requirements = 10 to 36 Kilo watts per MLD(Millions of Litre / Day)
 RPM of Impeller = 4.5 rpm
 Velocity of blades = 0.2 to 0.6 m/s
 Velocity of flow = 0.2 to 0.8 m/s
 Outlet flow velocity = 0.15 to 0.25 m/s
 Ratio of tank ht to tank dia. = 1:1 to 3:1
 Depth of tank = 3 to 4.5m
3. Operation of Clarifiers in Waste water management
 Clarifiers are tanks built with a mechanism for continuous removal of solids deposited by the
sedimentation while filtering the water.
 Its general use is to remove the solid particles from the liquid for clarification and thickening.
 The concentrated impurities discharged from the bottom of the tank are known as sludge, and the
particles that float on the surface of the liquid are known as scum.
  Clarification is an essential step in the wastewater treatment process to remove the solids through
gravity settling for providing a clarified and clean liquid. These are also used to remove the
materials like oil, grease, solids etc.
Process
 Initially the waste water enters the clarifier tank and the EDI (Energy Dissipating Inlet device) is
used to reduce the velocity of water.
 This process makes the suspended solid to settle down in the bottom of the tank. These sledges or
impurities are removed using rotating rakes fixed with scrapers into the sludge pit.
 Then the lighter particles (scum) will be floated on the surface of the tank and these impurities are
removed by using scum skimmer device.
 After removal of impurities the clarified water is sent to further usage.
Characteristics of a Clarifier
 Clarifiers can be installed by modifying the existing facilities, such as a primary sedimentation
tank or rainwater tank.
 The natural flow down process is used in the treatment process, and hence stable operation is
possible.
 It does not require any compulsorily auxiliary tank because washing time for filter media is
around 1 minute.
 Only the maintenance and management cost is needed for electricity due to the availability of the
non-flocculation process.
 The operation management is more accessible.

4. Sand Filters Operation in Waste Water Management

 Sand filtration is used for the removal of suspended matter, as well as floating and sinkable
particles.
 The wastewater flows vertically through a fine bed of sand and/or gravel. Particles are removed by
way of absorption or physical encapsulation.
 For effective processing of Sand filtration facility it require some particular characteristics.
 Effective Size – If the sand is too large, particulate will not get trapped and if it is too small,
particulates will accumulate on the surface of the filter bed preventing fluid flow.
 Shape – The shape of the grain should be sub-rounded to sub-angular. The more rounded the
grain, the more chance it will erode and reduce the lifespan of your filter.
 Hardness – Dense, hard, more resistant particles with high silica content are best, as softer
particles are also more susceptible to erosion.
 Uniformity Coefficient (Cu) – Filter media should relatively uniform in size, to allow water
to pass through. Optimal Water drinking systems have a sand Cu between 1.3 and 1.5, and
must not exceed 1.7.
 Biological Layer

Filtration process
 During filtration in a conventional down-flow depth filter, wastewater containing suspended
matter is applied to the top of the filter bed.
 As the water passes through the filter bed, the suspended matter in the wastewater is removed by a
variety of removal mechanisms.
 With passage of time, as material accumulates within the interstices of the granular medium, the
head-loss through the filter starts to build up beyond the initial value.
 After some period of time, the filter must be cleaned (backwashed) to remove the material
(suspended solids) that has accumulated within the granular filter bed.
 Backwashing is accomplished by reversing the flow through the filter. A sufficient flow of water
is applied for effective cleaning.
Filtration is classified into following three types:
 Depth filtration
 Slow sand filtration
 Rapid porous and compressible medium filtration
 Intermittent porous medium filtration
 Recirculating porous medium filtration
 Surface filtration
 Laboratory filters used for TSS test
 Diatomaceous earth filtration
 Cloth or screen filtration
 Membrane flirtation
5. Column Adsorption technique for water management
 Adsorption Chromatography involves the analytical separation of a chemical mixture based on the
interaction of the adsorbate with the adsorbent.
 The mixture of gas or liquid gets separated when it passes over the adsorbent bed that adsorbs
different compounds at different rates.
 Adsorbent – A substance which is generally porous in nature with a high surface area to adsorb
substances on its surface by intermolecular forces is called adsorbent.
 Some commonly used adsorbents are Silica gel H, silica gel G, silica gel N, silica gel S, hydrated
 gel silica, cellulose microcrystalline, alumina, modified silica gel, etc.

Process
 Stationary phase – Adsorbent is the stationary phase in adsorption chromatography
 The forces involved help to remove solutes from the adsorbent so that they can move with the
mobile phase.
 Mobile phase – Either a liquid or a gas is used as a mobile phase in adsorption chromatography.
Forces involved help to remove solutes from the adsorbent so that they can move with the mobile
phase.
 When a liquid is used as a mobile phase it is called LSC (Liquid-Solid Chromatography). When a
gas is used as a mobile phase it is called GSC (Gas-Solid Chromatography).
Applications
 Used for the separation of amino acids.
 It is used in the isolation of antibiotics.
 It is used in the identification of carbohydrates.
 It is used to separate and identify fats and fatty acids.

6. Aerator equipment operation for water management

 Aeration removes odour and tastes due to volatile gases like hydrogen sulphide and due to algae
and related organisms.
 Aeration also oxidize iron and manganese, increases dissolved oxygen content in water, removes
CO2 and reduces corrosion and removes methane and other flammable gases.
 Principle of treatment underlines on the fact that volatile gases in water escape into atmosphere
from the air-water interface and atmospheric oxygen takes their place in water provided the water
body can expose itself over a vast surface to the atmosphere.
 This process continues until equilibrium is reached depending on the partial pressure of each
specific gas in the atmosphere.
Types of Aerators
 Gravity aerators
 Fountain aerators
 Diffused aerators
 Mechanical aerators.
 Gravity Aerators (Cascades): In gravity aerators, water is allowed to fall by gravity such that a
large area of water is exposed to atmosphere, sometimes aided by turbulence.
 Fountain Aerators: These are also known as spray aerators with special nozzles to produce a fine
spray. Each nozzle is 2.5 to 4 cm diameter discharging about 18 to 36 l/h. Nozzle spacing should
be such that each m3 of water has aerator area of 0.03 to 0.09 m2 for one hour.
 Injection or Diffused Aerators: It consists of a tank with perforated pipes, tubes or diffuser
plates, fixed at the bottom to release fine air bubbles from compressor unit. The tank depth is kept
as 3 to 4 m and tank width is within 1.5 times its depth. If depth is more, the diffusers must be
placed at 3 to 4 m depth below water surface. Time of aeration is 10 to 30 min and 0.2 to 0.4 liters
of air is required for 1 litre of water.
 Mechanical Aerators: Mixing paddles as in flocculation are used. Paddles may be either
submerged or at the surface

Process
 Aeration treatment consists of passing large amounts of air through water and then venting the air
outside.
 The air causes the dissolved gases or volatile compounds to release from the water.
 The air and the contaminants released from the water are vented. In the case of iron and
manganese, the air causes these minerals to move from their dissolved state to a solid state and
precipitate out of solution.
 The water can then move through a filter to trap the iron and manganese particles.
7. Operation of Air Blower in Water Treatment

 Air blowers play a crucial role in water treatment processes by facilitating aeration, which is the
process of adding air to water.
 Aeration serves various purposes, including promoting the growth of aerobic bacteria that help in
breaking down organic matter, improving the efficiency of certain chemical processes, and
enhancing the overall water quality.
Main Components in Blower System
 Blower  Piping
 Motors and engines  Tanks
 Drive components  Valves and fittings
 Air filters  Gauges and switches
 Silencers  Heat exchanger
 Controls and instruments
Areas where the Air Blower is used in Water Treatment are:
 Aeration Tanks:
 Purpose: Air blowers are commonly used in aeration tanks where biological treatment occurs.
These tanks provide an environment for aerobic bacteria to break down organic pollutants in
the water.
 Operation: The blower delivers air to diffusers or aerators submerged in the water. This
promotes the growth of bacteria, which consume organic pollutants.
 Activated Sludge Process:
 Purpose: In wastewater treatment plants using the activated sludge process, air blowers are
essential for supplying oxygen to the microorganisms responsible for treating the sewage.
 Operation: Air is introduced into the aeration tank, creating an aerobic environment that
encourages the growth of microorganisms. These microorganisms then digest organic matter,
producing a sludge that settles in a subsequent settling tank.
 Oxidation Ditches:
 Purpose: Air blowers are employed in oxidation ditches, which are circular or oval basins used
for biological treatment.
 Operation: The blowers supply air to the ditches, ensuring that the water remains oxygenated.
This supports the activities of microorganisms, allowing them to break down pollutants
effectively.
 Membrane Bioreactors (MBR):
 Purpose: MBR systems use a combination of biological treatment and membrane filtration for
wastewater treatment.
 Operation: Air blowers provide aeration in the biological reactor, maintaining the oxygen
levels necessary for microbial activity. The MBR separates treated water from sludge.
  Fine Bubble Diffusers:
 Purpose: Air blowers are often used in conjunction with fine bubble diffusers, which release
small bubbles for efficient oxygen transfer.
 Operation: The blower forces air through the diffusers, creating a cloud of fine bubbles. This
maximizes the contact area between air and water, promoting effective gas exchange and
aeration.
 Energy Efficiency:
 Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): To enhance energy efficiency, many modern air blowers
are equipped with variable frequency drives.
 These devices adjust the blower's speed based on the treatment plant's oxygen demand,
reducing energy consumption during periods of lower demand.

8. Operation of Distillation Unit in Water Treatment

 Distillation units are employed in wastewater management as part of the treatment process to
separate contaminants from water through the application of heat and the subsequent
condensation of vapor.
 In wastewater management, distillation units are often used for the concentration and recovery of
valuable components or for the removal of specific impurities.

Process of Distillation Unit

 Inlet/Feed Wastewater:
 The wastewater to be treated enters the distillation unit through an inlet.
 Heating Stage:
 The wastewater is directed to a heating stage, where heat is applied to raise its temperature
and induce vaporization. This stage may involve the use of electric heaters, steam, or other
heating sources.
 Evaporation:
 The heated wastewater undergoes evaporation, and water molecules are converted into
steam. Contaminants with higher boiling points remain in the liquid phase.
 Vapor Transport:
 The generated steam, carrying water vapor and leaving behind many contaminants, is
 transported to the condensation unit.
 Condensation:
 In the condensation unit, the steam is cooled down, causing it to condense back into liquid
form. This process separates water from contaminants.
 Distillate Collection:
 The condensed water, now purified to a certain extent, is collected as distillate. This
distillate is typically of higher quality compared to the original wastewater.
 Contaminant Residue Collection:
 The concentrated contaminants that did not vaporize during the distillation process remain
in the liquid phase. This is often collected separately and referred to as distillation residues
or distillation bottoms.

9. Operation of Centrifugal and Reciprocating Pumps in Waste Water Management

 Centrifugal pumps and reciprocating pumps are two common types of pumps used in wastewater
treatment processes to transport and circulate water within the system.
 Each type has distinct characteristics and is suitable for specific applications within the
wastewater treatment plant.
 Centrifugal Pumps:
 Principle of Operation: Centrifugal pumps operate based on the principle of centrifugal
force. The pump uses a rotating impeller to impart kinetic energy to the fluid, causing it to
move radially outward.

 Components:
 Impeller: The rotating component with blades or vanes that imparts kinetic energy to the
water.
 Casing: The stationary outer covering that surrounds the impeller and directs the flow of
water.
 Operation Steps:
 The pump is started, and the impeller begins to rotate.
 As the impeller rotates, it creates a low-pressure zone at its center, drawing water into the
pump suction.
  The spinning impeller imparts energy to the water, increasing its velocity.
 The water is then forced outward by centrifugal force, creating a flow through the pump
casing.
 The water exits the pump at a higher pressure than the suction side and is directed to
various treatment processes or through the system.
 Applications in Wastewater Treatment:
 Centrifugal pumps are commonly used for transporting large volumes of water with
relatively low head requirements.
 They are suitable for applications such as lifting water from sumps, transferring water between
treatment units, and circulating water within the treatment processes.

 Reciprocating Pumps:
 Principle of Operation: Reciprocating pumps operate by using a piston or plunger that
moves back and forth to create a pressure differential, allowing water to be drawn into and
expelled from the pump.

 Components:
 Piston/Plunger: The reciprocating component that moves back and forth to displace water.
 Cylinder: The chamber in which the piston or plunger moves, creating the pumping action.
 Operation Steps:
 The piston or plunger moves in one direction, creating a low-pressure zone that draws water
into the cylinder.
 The piston or plunger then moves in the opposite direction, compressing the water and
creating a high-pressure zone.
 The pressurized water is expelled from the pump through a discharge valve.
 Applications in Wastewater Treatment:
 Reciprocating pumps are often used in wastewater treatment for applications that require
high-pressure pumping, such as injecting chemicals, sludge dewatering, or pumping thick
or viscous liquids.
 They are suitable for situations where precise control of flow and pressure is necessary.
10. Chemical dosing systems in Waste Water Management System

 Chemical dosing systems are essential components in wastewater treatment plants for the
controlled addition of chemicals to optimize various treatment processes.
 These systems play a crucial role in achieving specific treatment goals such as removing
contaminants, adjusting pH levels, enhancing coagulation and flocculation, and disinfecting the
wastewater.
Components of Chemical Dosing Systems:
 Chemical Storage Tanks:
 Dosing Pumps
 Dosing Lines and Injection Points
 Controllers and Sensors
 Safety Features

Injection points Sensor

Collecting
Tank

Operation of Chemical Dosing Systems:

 Dosing Rate Determination:
 The dosing rate is determined based on the characteristics of the wastewater, treatment
objectives, and analytical measurements.
 Continuous Monitoring:
 Sensors continuously monitor relevant parameters, and the dosing pumps adjust their
operation accordingly.
 Batch Dosing vs. Continuous Dosing:
 In some cases, chemicals are dosed continuously, while in others, they may be applied in
batches depending on the treatment requirements.
 Safety Precautions:
 Adequate safety measures are implemented to ensure the safe handling and dosing of
chemicals, including proper ventilation, protective equipment, and emergency response
plans.
 Applications
 Coagulation and Flocculation
 pH Adjustment
 Disinfection
 Nutrient Removal
 Odor Control
 Polymer Addition for Dewatering

11. Role of Motors, Pipes, valves and Fittings Water Treatment Plants
 Motors, pipes, valves, and fittings are crucial components in wastewater treatment systems,
playing key roles in the conveyance of water, the operation of equipment, and the control of fluid
flow.
Motors:
 Various equipment in wastewater treatment plants, such as pumps, agitators, blowers, and mixers
are driven by electric motors.
 Motors provide the mechanical power needed for the movement and operation of these
components.
 Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs):
 Motors are often equipped with VFDs to enable variable speed control. VFDs optimize
energy efficiency by adjusting motor speed based on the actual process requirements,
leading to energy savings.
 Aeration Systems:
 Motors power aeration systems, including aerators and diffused air systems, to provide
oxygen to biological treatment processes.
 Proper aeration is crucial for the growth of aerobic bacteria that break down organic
pollutants.
Pipes:
 Conveyance of Wastewater:
 Pipes are used to transport wastewater within the treatment plant, connecting various
treatment units and processes.
 Different types of pipes (e.g., PVC, ductile iron, HDPE) are selected based on factors such
as the nature of the wastewater, pressure requirements, and chemical resistance.
 Distribution and Collection Networks:
 In wastewater collection systems, pipes convey sewage from residential, commercial, and
industrial areas to the treatment plant.
 In treated water distribution systems, pipes distribute the treated water for reuse or
discharge.
  Sludge Conveyance:
 Pipes are used to transport sludge from sedimentation or sludge thickening units to sludge
treatment processes such as digestion or dewatering.
Valves:
 Flow Control:
 Valves are employed to control the flow of wastewater within the treatment processes. They
regulate the discharge rates, redirect flow, or isolate sections of the system for maintenance.
 Common types include gate valves, butterfly valves, ball valves, and check valves.
 Pressure Control:
 Pressure relief valves and control valves help maintain optimal pressure levels in different
parts of the treatment system.
 Chemical Dosing Control:
 Valves are used in chemical dosing systems to control the injection rates of chemicals into
the wastewater.
Fittings:
 Connection Points:
 Fittings, such as couplings, tees, elbows, and reducers, provide connection points between
pipes. They ensure a secure and leak-free network.
 Flexibility and Adaptability:
 Flexible fittings allow for changes in direction or elevation, accommodating the layout and
topography of the treatment plant.
 Joints and Seals:
 Fittings play a role in creating watertight joints and seals, preventing leaks in the
wastewater conveyance system.
 Expansion and Contraction:
 Expansion joints are used to absorb thermal expansion and contraction in the piping system,
reducing stress on the pipes and preventing damage.

12. Filed visit to a Waste Water Treatment Plant.

Wastewater treatment plants play a crucial role in maintaining public and environmental health by
treating and purifying wastewater before it is released back into the environment.
 Contact the Plant in Advance:
 Reach out to the wastewater treatment plant authorities ahead of time to schedule your visit.
 Confirm the date, time, and any specific requirements for visitors.
 Safety Precautions:
 Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), which may include safety glasses,
hard hats, closed-toe shoes, and reflective vests.
  Learn About the Plant:
 Research the basics of wastewater treatment to understand the different stages of the
process.
 Familiarize yourself with the specific type of treatment used at the plant you'll be visiting.
 Ask Questions:
 Prepare a list of questions in advance to ask the plant operators and staff.
 This could include questions about the treatment process, equipment used, challenges faced,
and any recent innovations.
 Tour the Facility:
 Take a guided tour of the treatment plant, led by knowledgeable staff.
 Pay attention to each stage of the treatment process, from the inlet where wastewater enters
the plant to the final treated water discharge.
 Observe Equipment:
 Take note of the various equipment and machinery used in the treatment process.
 Understand the purpose and function of key components such as clarifiers, aeration tanks,
and sludge dewatering units.
 Understand Treatment Technologies:
 Learn about the specific treatment technologies employed, such as biological treatment,
chemical treatment, and filtration.
 Environmental Impact:
 Discuss the plant's efforts to minimize its environmental impact.
 Know about any initiatives related to energy efficiency, resource recovery, and the
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
 Regulatory Compliance:
 Know about the plant's compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
 Understand the monitoring and testing procedures in place to ensure the treated water meets
quality standards.
 Reflect on the Experience:
 Reflect on the challenges faced by the plant and the importance of responsible wastewater
management.
2 MARK QUESTIONS
1. What is the purpose of a sedimentation tank in water pollution control?
A sedimentation tank, also known as a settling tank or clarifier, plays a crucial role in water pollution
control by facilitating the separation and removal of suspended particles from wastewater.
2. What is the primary purpose of a flash mixer in water treatment?
The primary purpose of a flash mixer in water treatment is to achieve rapid and uniform mixing of
chemicals, typically coagulants or other treatment agents, with water in order to initiate and optimize
 chemical reactions.
3. How does a flash mixer contribute to the coagulation process in water treatment?
Flash mixer plays a key role in this process:
 Rapid and Uniform Mixing
 Disruption of Particle Charges
 Initiation of Flocculation
 Enhancement of Water Quality
4. What type of chemicals is commonly added in the flash mixing stage?
 Aluminum-based coagulants
 Flocculants
 Lime
 Sodium hydroxide
 Chlorine
5. What is meant by term "detention time" in Water Treatment?
"Detention time" in the context of water treatment refers to the amount of time water spends in a
particular treatment unit or system.
6. Give some advantages on Flash Mixer Equipment
 Rapid and Uniform Mixing
 Short Contact Time
 Compact Design
 Energy Efficiency
7. What is the primary purpose of Flocculators in water treatment?
The primary purpose of Flocculators is to promote the gentle mixing of coagulated water to
encourage the growth and formation of larger flocs, improving the efficiency of subsequent
sedimentation or filtration processes.
8. How does the design of Flocculators contribute to achieving optimal flocculation in water treatment?
 Paddle configuration
 Velocity gradients, and
 Hydraulic characteristics
9. What is the primary purpose of a clarifier in water treatment?
The primary purpose of a clarifier is to facilitate the settling and separation of suspended particles
and impurities from water, producing clarified water with reduced turbidity.
10. How does a clarifier differ from a flash mixer in its role in water treatment?
 While a flash mixer is involved in rapid mixing of coagulants to initiate flocculation,
 A clarifier is responsible for allowing settled particles to separate from water through gravitational
settling, promoting the clarification of the water.
11. Explain the term "sludge blanket" in the context of clarifiers.
  The sludge blanket refers to the layer of settled particles and sludge that accumulates at the bottom
of a clarifier.
 These are Heavy particles settled down during sedimentation process.
12. What is the purpose of effluent weirs in clarifiers?
It is designed to allow clarified water to overflow and exit the clarifier while preventing the carryover
of settled particles and sludge into the treated water.
13. Explain the role of the skimmer mechanism in clarifiers.
The skimmer mechanism in clarifiers is responsible for the removal of floating scum and surface
debris from the clarified water, helping to maintain the quality of the treated water.
14. What is the primary purpose of a sand filter in water treatment?
The primary purpose of a sand filter is to remove suspended solids and fine particles from water
through the physical filtration process, resulting in clearer and cleaner water.
15. Explain the backwashing process in a sand filter and its importance.
 Backwashing involves reversing the flow of water through the sand filter to dislodge and flush out
accumulated particles.
 It is essential to prevent clogging, maintain the filter's effectiveness, and prolong its operational
life.
16. What is the typical media depth in a sand filter, and why is it important in the filtration
process?
 The typical media depth in a sand filter ranges from 24 to 36 inches.
 The depth is important because it determines the contact time between water and the sand bed,
influencing the efficiency of particle removal.
17. What are the advantages of using slow sand filters in water treatment?
 Low energy consumption
 Natural biological activity for additional treatment, and
 Effective removal of pathogens
18. What role does the adsorbent material play in an adsorption column?
 The adsorbent material in an adsorption column is responsible for attracting and retaining
impurities from the water.
 Common adsorbents include activated carbon or specialty resins.
19. Name some common application of adsorption columns in drinking water treatment.
 Removal of taste and odor compounds
 Removal of organic contaminants
 Removal of specific trace chemicals from drinking water
20. What is the primary purpose of aerators in water treatment?
The primary purpose of aerators is to increase the oxygen content in water by promoting the
exchange of gases between water and the atmosphere.
21. In what ways do aerators support the biological treatment of organic pollutants in water?
 Aerators support biological treatment by supplying oxygen to microorganisms.
 This promotes the aerobic breakdown of organic pollutants, improving the efficiency of sludge
treatment.
22. What safety measures should be considered in the design and operation of chemical dosing
systems?
 Proper Ventilation
 Containment Systems for chemical spills, and
 The use of Personal Protective Equipment to ensure the safety of operators.
23. How does the choice of chemicals impact the design and selection of a chemical dosing system?
 Factors such as dosing pump material compatibility
 Storage Requirements and
 The design of the dosing system to ensure proper handling and effectiveness.