The New Headworks Odor Control Biotrickling Filter Project: Performance Data and Operations and Maintenance Challenges at Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant in the City of Los Angeles, California

Abstract

Within the city of Los Angeles, the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant (HWRP), operated by LA Sanitation & Environment (LASAN) with an average dry weather capacity of 450 mg/day, has gone through upgrades and phases to protect the environment through sustainable practices while meeting stringent permit regulations. Separately from the proper primary and secondary water treatment, HWRP is currently applying an advanced system with the goal to be 100% recycled water by 2035. One such upgrade is the new Headworks odor control biotrickling filter (BTF) system. This upgrade will replace the existing five (5) chemical wet scrubbers, three (3) carbon towers, and two (2) chemical storage tanks. In its place, four (4) BTFs and eight (8) carbon scrubber tanks have been designed to remove hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from the influent and Headworks foul air stream. Starting on December 21, 2021, the first BTF unit was put in operation with the other three BTF units following shortly thereafter. Results have been outstanding with an average of over 99% H2S removal occurring in the BTF process and design air flow rate of 66,000 scfm. Currently, temporary carbon towers are being used until the permanent carbon towers can be placed and put into operation. It is estimated that sometime in Q1 of 2023 that the permanent carbon towers will be installed and in operation. The performance data and operations and maintenance (O&M) challenges at HWRP will be discussed, and the total project cost is just over $14 million. The performance data, air emissions measures, O&M challenges, and future BTF advancements will be presented for LASAN’s new technology BTF odor control systems.