The comparison between two of the activated sludge systems : continuous flow and sequences batch reactor in the effluent quality and sludge properties

Abstract EN

Activated sludge processes can be set up as continuous flow reactors (CFR) or cyclic fill and draw systems, also known as sequencing batch reactor (SBR).

In this research, a comparison between these two processes was carried out.

Two identical laboratory scale reactors were used in this study.

The reactors were designed to work under the same operating condition within the levels of F/M ranged between 0.1 to 0.6 g COD/g VSS.d.

The comparing parameters were; the effluent COD and BOD, oxygen uptake rate, sludge volume index, sludge settling velocity and the effluent pH values.

The results of the study showed that, the sequence batch reactor is better than the continuous flow reactor in removing the organic matter.

The values of effluent COD and BOD in the sequence batch reactor were equaled to 71% to 87% and 84% to 90% of the corresponding values in the continuous flow reactor and for the both parameters respectively.

The settling characteristics of sludge produced from the sequence batch reactor were better than that produced from the continuous flow.

The values of (SVI) were less in the sequence batch reactor than in the continuous flow.

Linear and logarithmic form of equations had proven to be efficient in representing the influence of F/M ratio on effluent COD and BOD and on the oxygen uptake rate respectively