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International Wastewater Systems SBR 6000

ETV Verification Report/Statement (www.epa.gov/etv/verifications/vcenter9-11.html)

SBR System and Control Building

The core of an SBR 6000 system includes an equalization/screening tank, SBR tank, sludge holding tank, and an effluent dosing tank. Each SBR unit is capable of processing 6,000 gpd consistently, however each can handle 9,000 gpd during peak flows. Should tertiary treatment be required, a sand filtration unit with coagulation and UV disinfection is normally set up within a control building. A 10,000 gpd system without a control building will normally take up a footprint of 60’ x 30’. The SBR 6000 design is used as the framework for larger sized tanks if larger flow applications are required. Tank sizes range from 6,000 gallons to 20,000 gallons.

All installations are provided with the necessary O&M materials with an onsite laptop for system control and report generation. The operator will also have access to the system through either dial up or Internet for remote operation and monitoring.

The control system is designed in such a way that the operator can clearly see both past and current conditions. All events and data are logged to an intuitive reporting package built into the control system. The operator is also able to control the system wirelessly via a laptop while onsite to troubleshoot any problems. Any alarms generated are automatically dialed or emailed to the operator’s cell phone.

Installation requirements include excavation for the tank bed area, a concrete holding pad, and a control building if required. 3 phase power, telephone line, and pressurized water are also a preliminary requirement.

Applications include any type domestic wastewater treatment where water quality impact is of the utmost concern. Flow must be relatively consistent and above 1,000 gpd to maximize biological treatment. Applications have included golf courses, residential subdivisions, schools, churches, and motels. Effluent in most cases may be used for irrigation, point source discharge into receiving waters, or discharged into a drainfield.

The SBR 6000 was designed for maximum BOD, TSS, and nutrient removal. The operator is able to change operating strategies at the click of a button as well as remotely monitor the system from anywhere in the world. In addition, IWS has operators to help remotely diagnose and troubleshoot any problems that may occur. The ETV summary below averages one year’s worth of data:

Operators must follow some straight forward maintenance items to allow for consistent and compliant operation. Items include cleaning removable screens of rags and garbage, ensuring proper activated sludge blanket levels in collaboration with the control system, checking pH, alkalinity, ammonia and nitrate, and verifying correct sand filter operation if present. All pumps are monitored and logged through current sensors, giving the operator indicators of a failing pump. If coagulant and/or methanol are being used, they must be ordered and replenished in a timely fashion. The operator should visit the site every week to physically ensure proper wastewater treatment, garbage collection, and chemical refills. When necessary, excess sludge should be pumped from the sludge holding tank every 6 months to a year.

Prices range from $4,000 - $8,000 per lot, depending on site conditions and number of lots serviced. Excavation, concrete pad, and control building are not included in the installation quote and are the responsibility of the developer.

Disposal of effluent is normally sent to a drainfield, however the effluent may also be land applied (irrigation) or discharged into a receiving water. Additional permits will be required for land applications and point source discharges.

SBR 6000 systems are designed for multiple home wastewater treatment. Additional SBR tanks may be added in the future provided there is enough sludge tank and equalization tank capacity. These tanks may also be added if necessary.

A properly budgeted system will allow for indefinite use.

One potential problem lies within regulatory sampling. Systems located in remote areas may have trouble either sending samples to a laboratory, or delivering the samples on time before they expire. Past solutions have included commuting homeowners delivering samples to the lab, setting up EPA approved testing methods onsite, and having a mail service pick up and deliver the samples before the allotted time expires.