Estimating Seasonal and Diurnal Variations in Influent Characteristics for Optimization of Aeration Operations: A Case Study for Applicability of Respirometric Techniques at Fairbanks, Alaska

Abstract

Wastewater characterization experiments were carried out at the wastewater treatment facility at Fairbanks, Alaska. These experiments were carried out to trace the diurnal and seasonal variations in the influent flowrate and organic loading. The considerable difference in the wastewater flow and loadings was influenced between summer, fall and winter. The seasonal variations could be attributed to change in population numbers and seasonal activities. Based on the observed variations, oxygen production and supply was analyzed as a possible avenue for costs savings in a high purity oxygen activated system. The ability of respirometry to make suitable predictions makes it applicable for such a purpose. Different benefits of respirometry have been discussed and several site-specific recommendations have been made for the application of respirometric techniques at the Fairbanks wastewater treatment facility. The results indicate that the possible savings by optimizing oxygen production and supply based purely on variations in influent loadings may not be an attractive option. However, if these cost savings were to be combined and seen in the light of post-treatment cost benefits, the application of respirometry of aeration optimization may serve to an attractive operation given the high operation and maintenance costs for this medium size facility.