What Type of Testing Is Involved With Water Treatment Plants?
There are many different types of testing that are performed at a wastewater treatment facility. These tests are used to ensure that the water leaving the plant meets the requirements of a permit. The process is often performed in a certified laboratory.
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The wastewater that leaves the facility is tested for both chemical and microbiological parameters. This includes total suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand, and bacteria. The results are recorded in the laboratory information management system. The results are then used as a reference for the next steps in the treatment process. This helps ensure that the water is safe to consume.
The biological components of the wastewater are also monitored for the safety of the aquatic environment. This includes coliform bacteria, which can cause gastrointestinal illness, and E.coli, which can lead to a fatal infection. The presence of these organisms can cause a buildup of odor and sediment in the treatment process.
The treatment plant must also measure pH, total alkalinity, and turbidity. These properties affect the way the water flows, and they can be used to determine how effective the disinfection process is. The pH and alkalinity are measured at several different stages in the process.
The treatment process also tests for the dissolved oxygen in the water. This is a key element of the NPDES permitting process. It is important to measure the free chlorine residual as well. The levels must be consistent with the NPDES permit. If the free chlorine residual is too low, the chorine in the distribution system will have a negative effect on the health of the marine life.
Aside from the usual constituents of wastewater, a few industrial pollutants can affect the quality of the water. For example, iron content can interfere with the system’s performance, and magnesium can cause scale deposits. These constituents can be reduced by adding chemicals to the water.
The main purpose of wastewater treatment is to remove BOD. In order to meet the goals of the Clean Water Act, the treatment process must be effective at removing these constituents. If the process does not, the water will contain bacteria. These bacteria can cause a buildup of odor, sediment, and algae.
Other constituents of wastewater include dissolved solids, which are particulate solids that can dissolve in the water. This type of wastewater is treated in a number of ways, including membrane filtration, ultraviolet treatment, and chlorination. The water is also tested for pH, which is used to prevent corrosion in the distribution system.
The wastewater leaving a treatment facility is then tested for coliform bacteria. This type of bacteria is common in wastewater, and it can cause a buildup of odor, clogging of the distribution system, and a reduction in taste. This can be a problem in areas with active monsoons. It can also be expensive to treat.
If the water is to be used for cleaning fish, it may need to be treated in a secondary process. This is a process that is usually carried out yearly.