5 KLD SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT USING SBR TECHNOLOGY AT CHUKHA HYDROPOWER PROJECT, BHUTAN
The 5 KLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Chukha Hydropower Project in Bhutan has been designed and installed to effectively treat domestic wastewater using Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) technology. This advanced treatment method ensures efficient removal of organic matter, suspended solids, and nutrients, providing environmentally safe effluent discharge.
OBJECTIVE OF THE PROJECT
- A sustainable and eco-friendly wastewater treatment solution.
- High pollutant removal efficiency.
- Minimal operational costs and environmental impact.
- Treated water suitable for reuse or safe discharge.
PROCESS DESCRIPTION
The STP operates on Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) technology, a cyclic activated sludge process designed for effective wastewater treatment.
- Influent Collection: Raw sewage is collected in an equalization tank where initial screening removes large debris and floating solids.
- Biological Treatment: The influent undergoes cyclic treatment in the reactor tank, which includes:
- Filling: The tank receives wastewater for treatment.
- Aeration: Oxygen is supplied to promote microbial degradation of organic pollutants.
- Settling: Solid-liquid separation occurs, allowing sludge to settle at the bottom.
- Decanting: The treated supernatant is discharged for further polishing or safe disposal.
- Sludge Management: Excess sludge is periodically removed and sent to the centrifuge for drying.
DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS
Capacity |
5 KLD (5,000 Liters per Day) |
Technology |
Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) |
Treatment Efficiency |
BOD < 10 mg/L, COD < 50 mg/L, TSS < 10 mg/L |
Retention Time |
4 hours per cycle |
Power Requirement |
1.5 - 2 kW |
Final Effluent Quality |
Meets Bhutan Pollution Control Standards |
Construction Material |
Entire plant, including the pipeline and fittings, is made of stainless steel. |
INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING
The installation of the 5 KLD STP was completed efficiently, with all components fabricated and assembled in stainless steel. The process included:
- Mechanical & Electrical Installation: Deployment of aeration systems, decanters, and pumps.
- Testing & Trial Run: Commissioning trials conducted to optimize treatment efficiency.
- Handover & Training: Plant operations training provided to local operators for smooth functioning.
OPERATION & MAINTENANCE PLAN
- Daily monitoring of influent and effluent quality.
- Routine servicing of blowers, pumps, and decanters.
- Periodic sludge removal and safe disposal.
The successful installation of the 5 KLD STP at Chukha Hydropower Project using SBR technology demonstrates an effective and sustainable wastewater treatment solution. The plant operates efficiently, meeting environmental standards while requiring minimal human intervention, making it an ideal choice for small-scale sewage treatment applications.