Conference Papers | 2009 Conference Papers

PROCESS MODELLING AND AMMONIA ONLINE MONITORING AT HEALESVILLE STP

Clint Vandepeer, Process Engineer, Yarra Valley Water

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ABSTRACT

In recent years, operation of the Healesville Sewage Treatment Plant had become increasingly difficult, in particular, achieving the EPA licence limits of both Ammonia and Total Nitrogen. Further development was proposed in the catchment area, including a micro-brewery so plant upgrades appeared imminent. Yarra Valley Water engaged a third party to provide a calibrated modelling package to simulate the existing treatment process and the effect of the proposed additional loading. The information gathered provided a firm basis for plant optimisation options and enabled informed investment decisions. In conjunction with the modelling simulation, an online Ammonia/Nitrate analyser was installed to gather real time information on treatment process performance. This paper discusses the model calibration process, review of the outcomes and benefits from having the process modelled and summarises the operational benefits from gathering online Ammonia and Nitrate measurements.

KEY WORDS

Aerobic, Anoxic, Oxidation Ditch, Nitrate, Ammonia