Experiences with computer simulation at two large wastewater treatment plants in northern Poland

Abstract

Mathematical modelling and computer simulation have became a useful tool in evaluating the operation of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in terms of nutrient removal capability. In this study, steady-state simulation results for two large biological nutrient removal WWTPs are presented. The plants are located in two neighbouring cities Gdansk and Gdynia in northern Poland. Simulations were performed using a pre-compiled model and layouts (MUCT and Johannesburg processes) implemented in the GPS-X simulation package. The monthly average values of conventional parameters, such as COD, Total Suspended Solids, total N, N-NH4+, P-PO4- were used as input data. The measured effluent concentrations of COD, N-NH4+, N-NO3- and P-PO4- as well as reactor MLSS were compared with model predictions. During calibration, performed from the process engineering perspective, default values of only five model parameters were changed. The opportunities for further applications of such models in municipal WWTPs are discussed.