Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Wastewater Operator Certification

Introduction to Trickling Filters and RBC's Study Guide

September 1995 Edition
Subclass B

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Bureau of Science Services
Operator Certification Program
P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707

http://dnr.wi.gov/org/es/science/opcert/

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides equal opportunity in its employment, programs, services, and functions under
an Affirmative Action Plan. If you have any questions, please write to Equal Opportunity Office, Department of Interior, Washington, D.C.
20240. This publication is availab le in alternative format (large print, Braille, audio tape. etc.) upon request. Please call (608) 266-0531
for more information.

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 Introduction to Trickling Filters and RBC's Study Guide - September 1995 Edition

Preface
This operator's study guide represents the results of an ambitious program. Operators of
wastewater facilities, regulators, educators and local officials, jointly prepared the objectives and
exam questions for this subclass.

How to use this study guide with references

In preparation for the exams you should:

1. Read all of the key knowledges for each objective.

2. Use the resources listed at the end of the study guide for additional information.

3. Review all key knowledges until you fully understand them and know them by memory.

It is advisable that the operator take classroom or online training in this process before attempting
the certification exam.

Choosing A Test Date

Before you choose a test date, consider the training opportunities available in your area. A listing
of training opportunities and exam dates is available on the DNR Operator Certification home
page http://dnr.wi.gov/org/es/science/opcert/. It can also be found in the annual DNR "Certified
Operator" or by contacting your DNR regional operator certification coordinator.

Acknowledgements
Special appreciation is extended to the many individuals who contributed to this effort.

Thomas A. Kroehn, Director of Office of Operations and Maintenance, DNR.

Thomas P. Mickelson, Coordinator, Operator Certification and Training, DNR.

Wastewater operators were represented by:

Mike Bechel - Elmwood

Craig Cappen - Eau Claire
Jerry Carroll - Eau Claire
Ron Clish - Eau Claire
Bert Enstad - Sun Prairie
Kevin Freber - Watertown
Mike Gabrick - Fountian City
Paul Lange - Watertown
William Long - Lodi

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Walter Luttenberger - Waupun
Tom Mortinger - Waukesha
Kim Putz - ST. Croix Falls
Gary Risen - Mondovi
Wilbur Salzwell - Ettrick
Gary Sweeney - Durand
Art Thompson - New Glarus
Bob Todahl - Eleva

VTAE and educational interests were represented by:

Glenn Smeaton - VTAE District Consortium

Pat Gomez - Moraine Park Technical College

DNR District Offices were represented by:

Larry Schaefer, Western District, Eau Claire

John Kling, Western District, Eau Claire

DNR Central Office was represented by:

John Melby, Madison

Ron Wilhelm, Madison

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 Introduction to Trickling Filters and RBC's Study Guide - September 1995 Edition

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 - Principle, Structure and Function

Section 1.1 - Principles of Trickling Filters and RBC's pg. 1
Section 1.2 - Structure and Function pg. 2
Chapter 2 - Operation and Maintenance
Section 2.1 - Operation pg. 4
Section 2.2 - Maintenance pg. 8
Chapter 3 - Monitoring and Troubleshooting
Section 3.1 - Monitoring pg. 11
Section 3.2 - Troubleshooting pg. 11
Chapter 4 - Safety and Calculations
Section 4.1 - Safety pg. 14
Section 4.2 - Calculations pg. 14

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Chapter 1 - Principle, Structure and Function

Section 1.1 - Principles of Trickling Filters and RBC's

1.1.1 Describe the wastewater treatment process of trickling filters and rotating biological
contactors (RBC's).
The main function of trickling filters and RBC's is to provide secondary treatment of primary
settled wastewater. They function to remove dissolved organics and finely divided organic
solids using microorganisms attached to the media. The growth on the media oxidizes
organic materials biologically to form a more stable material.

They remove dissolved and non-settleable solids as a result of the growth of bacteria and
other microorganisms on the media. The biological growth of these organisms uses the
dissolved organic material in the presence of oxygen as a food source. This produces cell
mass. Finely divided organic solids are also adsorbed on the cell walls of the
microorganisms.

As cell mass grows a portion is sloughed-off and this material is then removed by settling in
a final clarifier. As with all biologic type secondary treatment systems, wastewater soluble
BOD, and suspended solids (SS) are converted to a settleable biologic sludge.

The growth formed on the media is a mixture of mainly aerobic microorganisms. These
organisms are similar to those found in other secondary biological treatment processes.
Included would be bacteria, free swimming and stalked ciliates, rotifers, nematodes, and
many others.

1.1.2 Discuss the types of waste treated by a trickling filter and an RBC.
Trickling filters and RBC's are used to treat domestic wastewater and industrial organic
loadings from processes, such as milk processing wastes and canneries. Trickling filters
and RBC's can be used for most applications treating organic-type wastes and can handle
shock loadings well.

1.1.3 Explain the purpose served by the media in a trickling filter and on an RBC.
The main purpose of the media is to provide a surface on which microorganism's can grow.
It is designed to allow for easy contact of both air and wastewater. This ensures good
treatment and the sloughing of solids from the media without plugging.

In a trickling filter the media must be durable so it does not disintegrate in normal
operations. It is necessary to maintain void spaces for microorganisms and oxygen
movement through the filter. If the media does fail it can cause plugging of the filter and
under-drains. This can cause ponding.

1.1.4 Describe the effect of algae growth on the media of a trickling filter and an RBC.
Algae is a green plant and it only grows on the surface where light is present allowing
photosynthesis to occur.

Buildings or covers are constructed to keep out light to prevent this growth so algae growth

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is seldom a serious problem. On uncovered trickling filters algae growth is only a serious
problem if it becomes thick enough to cause ponding.

1.1.5 List the reasons why good primary treatment is needed for effective trickling filter and RBC
operation.
1. Prevent heavy large solid materials from plugging the media and openings in the discs
severely affecting treatment efficiency

2. Remove grease which would coat the media preventing or significantly reducing the
growth of microorganisms

3. Primary treatment reduces organic loading to the secondary treatment units

Section 1.2 - Structure and Function

1.2.1 Describe the containment and types of media used in trickling filters.
The retaining structure for trickling filters is usually a circular wall constructed of reinforced
concrete, concrete block, or vitrified clay blocks. These walls may be constructed with
openings or may be solid. With solid walls the filter can be flooded to correct some
operational problems while walls with openings provide better ventilation of the filter media.

Various materials have been used for filter media. Hard stone (dolomite, hard limestone,
and quartzite, etc.), various ceramics, redwood blocks or slats, and more recently synthetic
(plastic) media of various kinds have been used. Historically stone media has been most
commonly used. The new types of synthetic plastic media provide some advantages over
stone. These advantages include greater surface area per cubic foot and a higher
percentage of void spaces. This allows for greater hydraulic and organic loads. Common
rock media is less expensive than plastic.

1.2.2 Describe the type of media and stages used on an RBC.

The most commonly used material today is a plastic corrugated sheet which is fabricated
from high-density polyethylene.

The organisms that feed on sugar and starch (carbonaceous BOD) act quickly and have a
tendency to build-up on the first stages of an RBC unit. Disc configurations that have larger
openings for aeration and have less surface for solids accumulation are used in the early
rbc stages to handle the higher levels of carbonaceous BOD.

The organisms feeding on the later stages of an RBC unit have less food especially less
carbonaceous BOD and have a tendency to produce less buildup of biomass. Disc
configurations with one and one half to two times the area are used in this application to
provide as much food to bacteria contact as possible.

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1.2.3 Discuss the structure and function of the following trickling filter mechanisms:

A. Underdrains
B. Reactionary distributors
C. Distributor end gates
D. Speed retarder nozzles (orifices)
E. Turnbuckles and stay rods (guy wires)
F. Inlet and outlet valves.
A. Underdrains: rest on the floor of the filter and support the media; the underdrains collect
the filter effluent and convey it to the final clarifier; the underdrains act as a ventilation system
to convey air to the filter; it is common to design underdrains to flow only one-third to one-
half full at design flow; underdrains usually are made of vitrified clay or concrete

B. Reactionary distributors: most of the trickling filters in operation today use reaction
driven rotary distributors; they would be described as two or more horizontal pipes
supported by a central column; wastewater is spread over the filter by orifices or nozzles
located on one side of the horizontal pipe arms; the arms rotate about the center feed
column due to the reaction (jet action) of the wastewater discharging from the nozzles; the
movement of the arms is dependent on wastewater flow; during low flow periods it is
necessary to recirculate flows to maintain continuous operation; very few trickling filters use
electric motors to mechanically drive the distributor arms

C. Distributor end gates: serve several purposes; they act as a clean-out for removing any
material or debris that may be in the arms; by opening the end gates the reaction force of
the flowing wastewater will be stopped and the arms will stop; end gates are used to reduce
the speed of the arms by partially being opened to reduce the reactionforce of the flowing
wastewater; operating with the end gates partially open is not a good practice as this does
not distribute the flow uniformily over the filter reducing treatment efficiency; if the end gates
have to be partially opened to reduce rotational speed of the arms a permanent and better
solution for this problem would be to install speed retarder nozzles (see D)

D. Speed retarder nozzles (orifices): are located on the opposite side of the trickling filter
arm from the driving orifices; these retarder nozzles provide reaction forces opposite to the
driving nozzles and slow-down the rotational speed of the filter arms

E. Turnbuckles and stay rods (guy wires): connected to the central column on trickling filter
arms are used to structurally support the arms; the turnbuckles on the guy rods are used to
adjust and level the arms; this adjustment may need to be done seasonally to correct for
temperature changes

F. Inlet and outlet valves: the outlet valve on a trickling filter is located at the discharge point
of the filter usually in an outlet box; the main purpose of this valve would be to allow the
operator to close the valve and flood the filter to correct operational problems; this valve
along with the inlet valve can be used to isolate the filter

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1.2.4 Discuss the structure and function of the following RBC mechanisms:

A. Mechanical drive
B. Air drive
C. Load cells
A. Mechanical drive: units are powered by an electric motor driving a reduction gear box to
give the desired rotational speed

B. Air drive: units use diffused air that is released from headers under the RBC unit; the
rising air bubbles are trapped in cups around the outer perimeter of the discs; the trapped
air causes a buoyant force on one side of the disc exerting torque sufficient for rotation

C. Load cells: in an RBC plant help the operator determine the weight of biomass build-up
on an RBC shaft; this will help make more accurate operational decisions about when to act
to protect the bearings and shafts from weight overloads

1.2.5 Describe the purpose and types of covers used on for trickling filters and RBC's.
A. Trickling filters covers have been developed to reduce winter operating problems; ice
formation on uncovered filters is common in northern states; covers increase filter
operational efficiency during cold periods; cold weather causes decreasing activity of
microorganisms which reduces treatment efficiency; covers for trickling filters are commonly
constructed as domes of either aluminum or fiberglass; other construction methods can be
used including construction of complete pole sheds over smaller filter installations; the cover
also reduces filter surface heating effects during hot summer operations

B. RBC are good ventilation and cover from the weather are purposes for RBC covers;
ventilation is usually accomplished by opening the vent windows and helps the growth on the
media to aerobicly stabilize the wastewater; good ventilation reduces the danger of toxic or
suffocating gas build-up under the covers should an operator have to enter to perform
maintenance tasks; ventilation helps reduce water condensation inside the covered area

1.2.6 Explain the function secondary clarifiers have in a trickling filter or RBC plant.
Secondary clarifiers are used to separate water from the biological sludge that is sloughed
from the filter or disc unit. As with other secondary processes this biological sludge is very
close in density to water so good secondary clarification is needed to produce a good
quality effluent. Sludge needs to be removed regularly from the clarifier to prevent it from
floating or becoming septic.
Chapter 2 - Operation and Maintenance
Section 2.1 - Operation

2.1.1 List the initial environmental and operational characteristics necessary for proper operation
of an RBC unit.
A. Environmental:

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1. There must be adequate dissolved oxygen

2. The right temperature range
3. The right pH range
4. The system must have proper organic loading
5. The system must be covered or enclosed to prevent algae growth

B. Operational:

1. Check the discs for rotational speed and smooth motion; rotational speed must be
maintained for proper treatment, sloughing, and aeration; air driven units must be checked
for unequal growth on the media to prevent unequal rotational speed (loping)

2. Check the load cells to prevent media overload and possible shaft or bearing failure

3. Check the filters on blower systems to maintain the proper air flow and to prevent
compressor damage

2.1.2 Describe the appearance of biomass growth under the media layers of a trickling filter and
the stages of an RBC.
A. Trickling filter: under the first layer of media in a trickling filter the green color of the
algae disappears; the color of the biological growths would be from light gray to light tan in
color; the growths would be a jelly-like matrix consisting of bacteria, slimes, and other
microorganisms; these biological organisms in a properly functioning trickling filter are
aerobic and breakdown organic materials into simpler waste products creating cell mass

B. RBC: the appearance of growth on successive stages of an RBC begins with a shaggy
brown/gray mass that progressively thins; the color takes on a brownish/tan color on the last
stage

2.1.3 List what an operator should look for when evaluating the condition of the biomass growth
on trickling filter and RBC media.
A. Trickling filter:

1. Check the thickness of the media; if too thick ponding and anaerobic conditions might
occur; if too thin possible problems might indicate toxic concerns or large pH changes
2. Observe the color of the growth under the first layer of media

B. RBC:

1. Observe the thickness of biomass on the various shafts of the RBC train
2. Observe the color of the biomass on the various shafts (gray, deep brown, and tan)
3. Observe the texture of the biomass (slimy)
4. Observe the appearance of the biomass (shaggy looking slime)

2.1.4 Explain the possible affects on the operation of uneven flow distribution over the media of a
trickling filter.

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Uneven flow distribution means that the full media volume is not being used. This causes a
reduction in treatment efficiency of the trickling filter. It could also cause an increase in the
amount of filter flies.

If there is not even distribution over the surface of the media in an uncovered trickling filter
various patterns of algae growth will appear where enough water is present. No growth of
algae will occur in poorly wetted areas. On a round trickling filter this could look like a bulls-
eye pattern.

2.1.5 Explain the purpose of media ventilation in the operation of a trickling filter and an RBC.
A. Ventilation of the media in a trickling filter is important as air provides oxygen necessary
for organism growth in the media. If inadequate ventilation is occurring there is the
possibility that the aerobic organisms could become anaerobic resulting in odor problems.
If natural ventilation is inadequate forced air pumped through the underdrain system can be
used to enhance oxygen requirements.

B. RBC's air spaces on the rotating media provide opportunity for air, food, and
microorganisms to come together. It provides a space for sloughed biomass to leave the
media. RBC's rely on passive ventilation. In cases where the oxygen demand exceeds the
passive rate of oxygen supply supplemental forced aeration may be necessary.

2.1.6 Describe why dissolved oxygen levels in tanks below the discs should be checked for
proper RBC plant operation.
Low dissolved oxygen levels may cause septic conditions of the liquid below the discs
causing odors from hydrogen sulfide formation. The sulfide on the discs may also promote
the growth of undesirable organisms including beggiatoa.

2.1.7 List the purposes and schemes used for recirculation in a trickling filter or RBC.
1. To reduce the strength of the wastewater applied to the filter
2. An increase in volumetric loading can be used to increase sloughing and minimize the
biological mass
3. It can increase the efficiency of BOD removal through the plant
4. It can be used to reduce the detention time in the primary clarifier during low flow
5. It can keep the filter wet during low flow periods
6. It reduces the opportunity for fly breeding
7. It can be used to "seed" the filter with active microorganisms
8. It can reduce ice formation and filter freezing during cold weather low flow conditions

Note: One problem with recirculation is that both the primary and secondary clarifiers must
be sized properly to handle the increased flows from recirculation. High recirculation flow
through inadequately sized clarifiers can reduce overall plant efficiency.

Recirculation in trickling filter plants is normally the recirculation of trickling filter effluent or
final effluent. Either of these flows can be returned to the primary clarifier or to the influent of
the trickling filter. The four most common recirculation schemes would be:

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1. Final effluent to primary clarifier

2. Final effluent to influent of the trickling filter
3. Filter effluent to primary clarifier
4. Filter effluent to filter influent

Recirculation requires some form of pumping normally controlled by the operator. The main
method of changing a recirculation rate would be to increase or decrease the pump
discharge rate. This could be done by "throttling" of the valves using larger or smaller
pumps or by increasing or decreasing flows to the pumps. In some cases design
characteristics may limit the opportunity for adjusting this flow. When a recirculation rate is
changed it may take several weeks before the filter adjusts to the new flow rates.

Capacity for recirculation gives the RBC operator some control over the rate of flow and
improves the chances for better treatment. It can be used during cold weather to increase
flows to reduce freezing problems.

2.1.8 Explain why a trickling filter or RBC may be intentionally shock loaded with chlorine.
A. Trickling filter: the main reason for intentionally shocking a filter with a heavy application
of chlorine would be to cure a filter ponding problem by drastically reducing the amount of
biomass in the filter; filter ponding means that flows are not able to flow through certain
areas of the filter causing standing water on the filter surface; another reason to chlorinate
heavily would be to control snails, moss, and roaches--a more likely problem in the southern
part of the country; chlorine can also be used in lower dosages to control odors and filter
flies

B. RBC: the reasons for intentionally shocking an RBC with chlorine would be to prevent
excessive build-up of biomass and to kill filamentous organisms or other undesirable
growths (e.g. beggiatoa)

2.1.9 Describe the potential affects on biomass growth from the following shock loads:

A. Hydraulic shock load

B. BOD shock load
C. Toxic shock load
A. Hydraulic shock load: hydraulic shock loading can reduce detention time, lower
treatment efficiency, and potentially reduce growth of media biomass

B. BOD shock load: an organic overload can cause excessive growth especially on the
first two shafts of an RBC and could cause structural damage to the shafts and bearings,
plug the discs, generate excessive sludge, and impair treatment efficiency; high organic
loading of a trickling filter can cause the formation of excessive cell mass, ponding, and
anaerobic conditions that could lead to severe odor problems; sidestream from an
anaerobic digester can increase soluble BOD loading which can come from industrial
sources within the community or sludge haulers

C. Toxic shock load: a toxic shock load or rapid pH changes can kill the biomass causing

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complete loss of secondary treatment

2.1.10 Define recirculation ratios and give examples for the following types of trickling filters:

A. Low-rate
B. Intermediate
C. High-rate
Recirculation ratios are expressed as the volume of return recirculation flows to the volume
of the influent wastewater. Recirculation ratios generally run from 0.5:1 to 4:1.

A. Low-rate: have very low recirculation ratios or no recirculation at all

B. Intermediate: have ratios of less than 2:1

C. High-rate: have ratios from 2:1 to 4:1

2.1.11 List the steps to take if an RBC unit is to be taken out of service for an extended period of
time.
RBC trains may be taken out of service for cleaning, maintenance, or because they are not
needed due to low flows. The take-down steps would be:

1. Shut-down the flow to the RBC unit

2. Maintain the rotation of the unit
3. Add chemicals to cause biomass to strip from the discs:
a. Chlorine will kill organisms
b. A caustic (high pH) solution will strip the growth
4. Shut-off the power to the unit
5. Empty the tank
6. Clean the empty tank

2.1.12 Describe how to determine if enough sludge is being removed from the clarifiers.
To determine if enough sludge is being removed from a clarifier various types of sludge
depth finders are used. The most common type (and easiest to use) would be the "sludge
judge". If enough sludge is not being removed a visual observation of floating sludge would
indicate that additional sludge pumping is needed. As a general rule sludge should be
removed from the final clarifier several times per day to prevent septic conditions, floating
sludge, and to provide even loading to the digester.
Section 2.2 - Maintenance

2.2.1 Explain what to look for when evaluating rock media in a trickling filter.
Rock media should be inspected to ensure that the rock is sound and is not disintegrating.
This could cause loss of void space which could cause ponding and anaerobic conditions.

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2.2.2 Describe the following tasks and explain why each is important in the maintenance of
trickling filters.

A. Cleaning nozzles and splash plates

B. Flushing distributor arms
C. Adjusting stay rods (guy wires)
D. Checking distributor bearings and lubrication
A. Cleaning nozzles and splash plates: is important because biological growths and debris
can cause plugging; this causes uneven distribution of wastewater over the trickling filter
media

B. Flushing distributor arms: is important to clean out the debris that can block nozzles; this
can cause uneven distribution of wastewater over the trickling filter media

C. Adjusting stay rods (guy wires): is necessary to prevent stress on the center column
connections, unequal loading on the bearings, and to ensure even distribution of wastewater
over the trickling filter media

D. Checking distributor bearings and lubrication: the bearing seal should be checked for
leaks and lubrication performed as directed by the manufacturer recommendations

2.2.3 Discuss a method and frequency of cleaning trickling filter underdrains.

The most common method of cleaning the underdrains would be to close the filter effluent
line and flood the filter. Open the valve to allow the head in the filter to flush the drains. With
some installations direct access can allow the use of sewer cleaning equipment or high
pressure hoses.

Cleaning is done to remove any build-up of sloughed solids and the removal of any snails.
This action will prevent odor problems that might be caused by septic conditions in the
underdrains.

2.2.4 Explain why clarifier weirs should be regularly brushed-down and/or washed-off.
Clarifier weirs especially the V-notch type should be brushed-down and/or washed-off
regularly to prevent unequal flows (short circuiting) due to buildup of organic matter or
debris. It also makes for better visual appearance.

2.2.5 List three items to inspect when performing a maintenance inspection of a secondary
clarifier.
1. Inspect to see if the sludge collection mechanism is working properly
2. Inspect to make sure the flow over the weirs is equal
3. Inspect to make sure that adequate sludge has been removed (sludge judge)

2.2.6 List the maintenance items to consider for a clarifier scraper or chain drive mechanism.
1. Perform basic lubrication (as per the O&M manual and/or manufacturers
recommendations)

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2. Check the chain adjustments (rectangular clarifiers)

3. Inspect the torque limiters (round and square clarifiers)
4. Check the gear reduction units (heavy oil)
5. Check the drive motors (temperature and current draw)
6. Inspect all mechanical connections

2.2.7 List the maintenance tasks to perform on the following RBC equipment:

A. Shafts and main bearings

B. Drive motor
C. Diffusers
D. Drive assembly units
E. Blower equipment
A. Shafts and main bearings:

1. Grease or lubricate
2. Check to see if they are running hot
3. Listen for unusual noise

B. Drive motor:

1. Check to see if they are running hot

2. Lubricate motor bearings
3. Listen for unusual noise

C. Diffusers:

1. Check to see if they are plugged

2. Clean and/or unplug

D. Drive assembly units:

1. Check oil levels

2. Check chain tension
3. Change oil
4. Listen for unusual noise

E. Blower equipment:

1. Check the filters

2. Clean the filters
3. Lubricate
4. Listen for unusual noise
5. Check diffusers

2.2.8 List the key items that should be found on an RBC maintenance shedule.

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1. Grease or lubricate the shaft bearings

2. Check the motors
3. Check the oil levels
4. Check the chains and chain drives
5. Check the belts and drives
6. Check load cells
7. Check the media and media supports
8. Check ventilation
9. Check the compressors, air filters, and diffusers (air drive units)

2.2.9 Explain what emergency measure an operator can do if the power to an RBC unit is shut-off
for an extended period of time (4 hours).
Rotate the RBC by hand to keep the biomass in balance.
Chapter 3 - Monitoring and Troubleshooting

Section 3.1 - Monitoring

3.1.1 Identify the sampling locations to be used to determine BOD and suspended solids
removal.
Samples should be collected at the influent to the treatment plant and after the final clarifier
for overall BOD and suspended solids removal. To determine the effectiveness of the
secondary clarifier or the loading to the trickling filter it would also be necessary to sample
the overflow of the primary clarifier and the trickling filter effluent.

3.1.2 Identify the sampling locations for BOD or suspended solids removal for the following:

A. WPDES monitoring (BOD and TSS) and overall plant efficiency

B. Soluble BOD removal from an RBC
C. Fecal coliform monitoring
A. WPDES monitoring and plant efficiency: influent to the primary clarifier and effluent from
the secondary clarifier

B. Soluble BOD removal from an RBC: influent to the RBC and effluent from the RBC

C. Fecal coliform monitoring: effluent from the clorine contact tank

3.1.3 Describe the laboratory test that best indicates the operating efficiency of a trickling filter or
RBC.
Laboratory test that would best indicate the operating efficiency would be a soluble BOD
test taken on the units influent and effluent. Other tests may be used for operational
concerns and would include BOD, suspended solids, and dissolved oxygen.
Section 3.2 - Troubleshooting

3.2.1 List three methods of reducing freezing problems of trickling filters.

1. Construct covers to completely enclose the filter
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2. Construct wind screens to protect the filter from prevailing winds

3. Increase flows to the filter by recirculation, removal of some of the arms, or restricting the
number of nozzles

3.2.2 Outline the possible causes and corrective actions for the following trickling filter problems:

A. Ponding
B. Excessive filter flies
C. Odor problems
D. Icing problems on media and/or clarifier
A. Ponding:
Causes - organic overload; media too small; improper operation of the primary clarifier
Correction - shock chlorinate the filter and reduce organic loading, increase the recirculation
rate to "dilute" the filter influent, reduce organic overload, and ponding; enlarge the openings
using bars, remove, and replace media; correct the primary clarifier operation

B. Filter flies:
Causes - nearby vegetation; intermittent loading; uneven loading
Correction - remove vegetation (if possible), flood, and chlorinate the filter; use an approved
insecticide; recirculate more flow; correct the cause of uneven loading

C. Odor problems:
Causes - ponding or anaerobic conditions; organic overload
Corrections - shock chlorinate the media; increase ventilation including forced air through
underdrains; reduce the organic overload by placing more filters in service (if possible);
increase the recirculation rate

D. Icing problems:
Causes - cold weather; underloaded plant
Correction - cover the filter and clarifiers; build wind breaks; increase recirculation; take
units out of operation if possible cover units; build wind breaks

3.2.3 Describe the possible causes and corrective actions to be taken for the following
mechanical problems with RBC units:

A. Shaft bearings running hot or failing

B. Motors running hot (if over 40 degrees C.)
A. Shaft bearings running hot or failing:
Causes - the load on the reactor is becoming too heavy; biomass is too thick; possible
misalignment problems; an improper grease schedule; use of the wrong grease or not
enough of the correct one; an uneven growth on the disc

Correction - check the load cell and the incuce sloughing; check the maintenance schedule
and realign; check the maintenance schedule; even-out the growth using moderate spray
from hoses or a low chlorine dosage

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B. Motors running hot:

Causes - overloading; more power is required than the motor rating; bad bearings or over-
greased bearings; a dirty air passage on the drive motor

Correction - check the load cell and induce sloughing; change to motors with higher ratings;
check the maintenance schedule or change bearings; clean the air passage

3.2.4 Describe the possible causes and corrective actions to be taken for the following
operational problems with RBC units:

A. Odor problems
B. Excess growth on the first stage
C. Sudden biomass loss
D. Solids accumulation in the reactor tanks
A. Odor problems:
Cause: not enough oxygen is being added to the system; anaerobic conditions exist
Correction: increase air to the discs if possible; add additional RBC trains to reduce
organic loading if possible; increase ventilation

B. Excess growth on first stage:

Cause: organic loading is too great
Correction: increase the number of discs in operation; increase rotational speed; increase
air to discs; remove the baffle between the first and second stages of the RBC train

C. Sudden loss of biomass:

Cause: toxic conditions are entering the plant
Correction: if recognized early enough bypass the tanks; determine the source of the toxic
discharge and eliminate it or pretreat it

D. Solids accumulation in the reactor tanks:

1. Cause: inorganic solids (grit) are accumulating in the tank

Correction: improve pretreatment (grit removal) and primary clarifier operations

2. Cause: hydraulic flow in the tank is too low allowing organic solids to settle
Correction: take a RBC train out of service (if possible) or recirculate the final effluent to
increase velocity through the tank

3.2.5 Describe the possible cause and corrective actions for an air-driven RBC that fails to rotate
or rotates unevenly.
Cause: failure to rotate or rotating unevenly is caused by unequal growth on the discs; this
can be caused by organic overload or insufficient air to the discs

Correction: increase the air to the discs, reduce organic loading (if possible), and try to
reduce biomass overgrowth on the heavy side of the disc; use hoses or application of a
chlorine solution

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Chapter 4 - Safety and Calculations

Section 4.1 - Safety

4.1.1 List the safety precautions related to the operation of trickling filter units.
1. Safely stopping distributor arms: open the end gates on all distributor arms; when it has
slowed-down carefully stop the rotation of the arms

2. Clearance between media and arms: there should be sufficient vertical clearance
between the media and arms so that if an individual fell on the filter the arm could pass over
the person

3. Replacing filter media or cleaning underdrains: in both of these situations the operator
could be working in a confined space and must be prepared to follow prescribed safety
rules

4. Standing on the media surface: there is a chance of falling due to slippery growths on
the media

4.1.2 List the safety precautions related to the operation of RBC units.
The safety considerations of RBC units are similar to other equipment at treatment plants.
Some concerns would be:

1. All mechanical drive components for RBC shafts (e.g. pulleys, belts, gearboxes, and
chains) should have protective covers

2. For air driven units the drive systems for compressors have similar safety concerns as
mechanical drives; pressurized air lines must be in good condition

3. Electrical concerns with all drive motors (lockout and tag before performing
maintenance)

4. Safety concerns in stopping an RBC shaft due to the large rotation inertia

5. When cleaning empty RBC tanks precautions are necessary as they are considered
confined spaces

6. Entering covered RBC units that are not well ventilated poses problems with dangerous
gases that may be present especially hydrogen sulfide and methane
Section 4.2 - Calculations

4.2.1 Given data calculate influent loading in pounds of BOD per day ÷ 1,000 cubic feet of media.
Given:
Primary effluent BOD = 120 mg/L
Flow to filter = 0.30 MGD
Round filter diameter = 40 feet
Filter media depth = 7 feet
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Formula:

pounds per day = flow (MGD) x concentration (mg/L) x 8.34

pounds per day = .30 x 120 x 8.34 = 300.24

volume of filter/1,000ft³ = (3.14 x r² x depth) ÷ 1,000

volume of filter/1,000ft³ = (3.14 x 20 x 20 x 7) ÷ 1,000

= 8.79

pounds of BOD/day/1,000ft³ = pounds per day ÷ (volume of filter/1,000ft³)

pounds of BOD/day/1,000ft³ = 300.24 ÷ 8.79

= 34.16

4.2.2 Given data calculate pounds per day of BOD from digester supernatant or other
sidestreams.
Given:
Digester supernatant strength (BOD) = 600 mg/L
Digester supernatant flow = 5,000 gallons/day

Formula:

pounds = flow (MGD) x concentration (mg/L) x 8.34

pounds/day = (.005) x 600 x 8.34

= 25 pounds of BOD per day

4.2.3 Given data calculate pounds of BOD/load from one 5,000 gallon load of septic tank sludge.
Given:
Septic tank load volume = 5,000 gallons
Septic tank BOD strength = 3,000 mg/L

Formula:

pounds = volume (mg) x concentration (mg/L) x 8.34

pounds = .005 x 3,000 x 8.34

= 125 pounds of BOD/load

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4.2.4 Given data calculate the total pounds of soluble BOD per day to the secondary treatment
unit.
Given:
Soluble BOD in primary effluent = 80 mg/L
Flow = 1 MGD

Formula:

pounds per day = flow (MGD) x concentration (mg/L) x 8.34

pounds = 1.0 x 80 x 8.34

= 667 pounds

4.2.5 Given data calculate the total surface area of an RBC unit(s).
Given:
Number of RBC trains = 2
RBC shafts per train = 4
Surface area of shafts 1, 2, & 3 = 100,000 ft²
Surface area of shaft 4 = 150,000 ft²

Formula:

total surface area = sum of the individual shaft surface areas of one train

total surface area = 100,000+100,000+100,000+150,000 = 450,000 ft²/train

total surface area = total surface area of one train times the number of trains

total surface area = 450,000 x 2 = 900,000 ft²

4.2.6 Given data calculate the loading to the first stage in pounds of soluble BOD per day per
1,000 ft².
Given:
Soluble BOD in primary effluent = 80 mg/L
Flow = 0.50 MGD
First stage surface area = 100,000 ft²

Formula:

pounds per day = flow (MGD) x concentration (mg/L) x 8.34

pounds per day = 0.50 x 80 x 8.34

= 334

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loading = pounds per day ÷ (stage surface area/1,000)

loading = 334 ÷ 100

= 3.34 pound of soluble BOD/day/1,000 ft²

4.2.7 Given data calculate the loading to all RBC stages in pounds of BOD per day per 1,000 ft².
Given:
Soluble BOD in primary effluent = 80 mg/L
Flow = 1.0 MGD
Number of trains = 2
Number of shafts = 4
Shaft surface area = 100,000 ft²

Formula:

pounds per day soluble BOD = flow (MGD) x concentration (mg/L) x 8.34
pounds per day soluble BOD = 1.0 x 80 x 8.34
pounds per day soluble BOD = 667

total plant loading = pounds per day soluble BOD ÷ (total surface area all stages ÷ 1,000)

total plant loading = 667 ÷ (2 x 4 x 100,000 ÷ 1,000)

total plant loading = 667 ÷ 800

= .83 pounds of soluble BOD/day/1,000 ft²

4.2.8 Given data calculate the theoretical detention time in a rectangular clarifier.
Given:
Clarifier length = 40 feet
Clarifier width = 15 feet
Clarifier depth = 10 feet
Flow = 0.54 MGD
1 cubic foot = 7.5 gallons

Formula:

volume = length x width x depth

volume = 40 x 15 x 10
volume = 6,000 cubic feet

detention time (hours) = volume (gal) ÷ flow rate (MGD)

detention time = (6,000 x 7.5) ÷ (540,000 (gal) ÷ 24hrs)

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detention time = 45,000 (gal) ÷ 22,500 (gal/hr)

= 2.0 hours

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 References and Resources

1. CONTROLLING WASTEWATER TREATMENT PROCESSES.

(1984). Cortinovis, Dan. Ridgeline Press, 1136 Orchard Road, Lafayette, CA 94549.

2. OPERATION OF MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS.

Manual of Practice No. 11 (MOP 11), 2nd Edition (1990), Volumes I, II, and III. Water
Environment Federation (Old WPCF), 601 Wythe Street, Alexandria, VA 22314-1994.
Phone (800) 666-0206.
http://www.wef.org/

3. OPERATION OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS.

3rd Edition (1990), Volumes 1 and 2, Kenneth D. Kerri, California State University, 6000 J
Street, Sacramento, CA 95819-6025. Phone (916) 278-6142.
http://www.owp.csus.edu/training/

4. OPERATION OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS.

Manual of Practice No. 11 (MOP 11) (1976). Water Pollution Control Federation, 601 Wythe
Street, Alexandria, VA 22314-1994. Phone (800) 666-0206. (Probably Out-of-Print, See
Reference Number 2)
http://www.wef.org/

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