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Preliminary Treatment

GRIT CHAMBER

Grit Chamber

Wastewater enters the grit chamber from the collection system, where it is aerated to keep the organic matter in suspension while heavier grit particles like sand and gravel are removed by settling. It is necessary to remove grit because it is abrasive and will rapidly wear out pumps and mechanical equipment. Aerated grit chambers have a detention time of approximately 3-5 minutes at peak flows with a flow velocity of 1ft./sec.


MACERATION

Macerators

The wastewater then flows through macerators, which shreds larger materials, like pieces of wood and plastics. Macerators shred material so they won’t plug pipes or damage equipment.


Environmental Engineering Technology at Three Rivers
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