Rotating Biological Contactor

Rotating Biological Contactors,

commonly called RBC’s, are used in
wastewater treatment plants
(WWTPs). The primary function of
these bio-reactors at WWTPs is the
reduction organic matter.
Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC)

• A suspended/fixed growth biological treatment

processes used to consume organic matter (BOD)
from wastewater.
• Consists of 2-4 m diameter disks, closely spaced
on a rotating horizontal axis
• Disks are covered with a biofilm.
• The disks are only partially submerged in
wastewater.
Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC)
• As the disk rotates the biofilm is exposed to the
wastewater only part of the time.
• The rotation in and out of the wastewater serves to
vary the feeding cycle (starve/gorge) of the
bacteria and microorganisms that make up the
biofilm.
• The shaft rotates about about 1-2 rpm (slowly).
• Some advantages: Less Upset, High Loading Rate,
Nitrification/De-nitrification, Low O&M Cost,
Durable Constructions,Odorless, No Noise
Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC)

Flow Diagram of an RBC

Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC)

Defective RBC’s at the Easton Wastewater Treatment Plant

Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC)

Single RBC

Single disk of an RBC