Dynamic optimisation of WWTP inflow to reduce total emission

Abstract

A prerequisite for an integrated control of sewer and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is a capacity driven inflow control to WWTP. This requires reliable information about the current status of WWTP operation and its behaviour on varying hydraulic, COD and nutrient loads. So far most of the proposed control strategies are based on hypothetical modelling studies. In this paper the behaviour of three large WWTPs on increased storm water loads is analysed based on online measurements of several years. In all cases the main limiting factors for an increase of load were the sedimentation processes in the secondary clarifier and the nitrification capacity. In one case study predictive control strategies have been developed observing these processes which are backboned by effluent control. Tests using an integrated model of sewer and WWTP demonstrate that inflow control on emission load varies significantly with rain intensity.