Development of an Improved Compact Package Plant for Small Community Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

The challenges facing the design and operation of small community wastewater treatment plants are discussed. The package plant concept is considered and the consequent development of a compact intermittently aerated activated sludge package plant is outlined. A four month trial period, comprising the first part of the evaluation, is described. Results from this trial show that the plant can serve communities of up to 300 p.e. and that treated effluent quality conforms to the General South African Standards. The compact design and unique operating regime offer reduced capital and running costs respectively.