ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to take this opportunity to thank to all the people who helped us to continue the
comprehensive design project. First and foremost, we want to convey our most sincere gratitude
to all panel members to guiding us until today. We thank to Eng. A.M.Z. Zimer, Lecturer,
Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, South Eastern University of Sri Lanka.
for guiding us throughout the semester to continue the comprehensive design project.

We ake this opportunity to thank Eng. S. Satheeskumar, Area Engineer, National Water Supply &
Drainage Board, Kalmunai. And Engineer, Municipal Council, Kalmunai, Divisional Secretariat,
Sainthamaruthu, and other staff. Further, we thank public who are provided data and information
about treatment plant. Finally, we wish to express our gratitude again to all those who helped us
towards the successful completion of our Comprehensive Design Project.

We are very thankful to Dr. S.M. Junaideen (Dean, Faculty of Engineering), Dr. J. Ajith Thamboo
(Head, Department of Civil Engineering) and all Senior Lecturers, Lecturers, Temporary Assistant
Lecturers and Instructors of the faculty of Engineering, for the knowledge they imparted on us.
Also, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who have been helping to carry out our comprehensive
design project.

i
TABLE OF CONTENT

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ........................................................................................................... i

LIST OF FIGURES .................................................................................................................. iv

LIST OF TABLES ......................................................................................................................v

1. Introduction .........................................................................................................................1

1.1 Objectives of the project ...............................................................................................1

1.2 Background...................................................................................................................1

1.3 Treatment Plant .............................................................................................................4

1.4 Location ........................................................................................................................4

1.5 Design Period ...............................................................................................................6

1.6 Estimating the flow .......................................................................................................6

2 Design of sewage collection network system........................................................................9

2.1 Sewage Collection Network System ..............................................................................9

2.2 Manholes .................................................................................................................... 10

2.3 SewerGEMS V8i ........................................................................................................ 11

2.3.1 Laying out a network in SewerGEMS V8i ........................................................... 11

2.3.2 Lay in out a network for Sainthamaruthu water treatment plant in SewerGEMS V8i
12

2.3.3 Sewage network design details ............................................................................. 14

3 Designing of the treatment plant ......................................................................................... 15

3.1 Choosing a technology ................................................................................................ 15

3.1.1 Influent characteristics ......................................................................................... 15

3.1.2 Effluent characteristics ......................................................................................... 15

3.1.3 Preliminary treatment ........................................................................................... 15

3.2 Preliminary treatment .................................................................................................. 16

ii
 3.2.1 Screening ............................................................................................................. 16

3.2.2 Comminutor......................................................................................................... 20

3.2.3 Flow equalization basin........................................................................................ 20

3.2.4 Grit chamber ........................................................................................................ 20

3.2.5 Primary sedimentation tank .................................................................................. 22

3.3 Secondary treatment (Biological treatment) ................................................................. 25

3.3.1 Trickling filter...................................................................................................... 28

3.3.2 Secondary sedimentation tank .............................................................................. 31

3.4 Drawings .................................................................................................................... 33

3.5 Chemical unit processes .............................................................................................. 36

3.5.1 Chemical oxidation .............................................................................................. 36

3.6 Solid disposal system .................................................................................................. 36

3.6.1 Disposal of sludge ................................................................................................ 38

3.6.2 Gravity thickening ............................................................................................... 38

3.7 Reusing the effluent .................................................................................................... 39

3.7.1 Level of treatment required .................................................................................. 39

4 Environmental Impact Assignment..................................................................................... 41

5 Cost estimation .................................................................................................................. 44

References ................................................................................................................................ 47

Appendix A............................................................................................................................... 48

iii
LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1: Map of Sainthamaruthu (Source: Divisional Secretary office) ...................................3

Figure 1.2: Proposed locations ....................................................................................................4
Figure 1.3: Selected location .......................................................................................................5
Figure 1.4: Selected location (Zoomed) .......................................................................................5
Figure 2.1: Main sections of sewer collecting network. ............................................................. 10
Figure 2.2: Laying out a network in sewerGEMS ...................................................................... 12
Figure 2.3: sewage collection network from sewrGEMS V8i..................................................... 12
Figure 3.1: Input, Treatment and Output .................................................................................... 16
Figure 3.2: Biological treatment options .................................................................................... 25
Figure 3.3: Comparison of suspended growth and attached growth systems............................... 26
Figure 3.4: Comparison of anaerobic process and aerobic process of attached growth system.... 26
Figure 3.5: Comparison of RBC and trickling filter ................................................................... 27
Figure 3.6: Bar screen ............................................................................................................... 33
Figure 3.7: Primary sedimentation tank ..................................................................................... 34
Figure 3.8: Trickling filter no.2 ................................................................................................. 35
Figure 3.9: Rough layout of the treatment plant ......................................................................... 40

iv
LIST OF TABLES

Table 1.1: Population details of Sainthamaruthu ..........................................................................2

Table 1.2: Forecasted population .................................................................................................7
Table 3.1: Designing calculations for bar screen ........................................................................ 18
Table 3.2: Design calculations for grit chamber ......................................................................... 21
Table 3.3: Design calculations of primary sedimentation tank ................................................... 23
Table 3.4: Design calculation for trickling filter ........................................................................ 29
Table 3.5: Design calculation for secondary sedimentation tank ................................................ 31
Table 3.6: characteristics of sludge ............................................................................................ 37
Table 3.7: Quantities of sludge produced (Metcalf and Eddy, 2003) .......................................... 37
Table 3.8: method of reuse and required water quality ............................................................... 39
Table 4.1: the impacts from plant and suitable solutions ............................................................ 42
Table 5.1: Summery of data ...................................................................................................... 44
Table 5.2: Calculation of quantities ........................................................................................... 45
Table 5.3: Cost for pipes ........................................................................................................... 45
Table 5.4: Summery of total costs ............................................................................................. 46

v
 1. Introduction

1.1 Objectives of the project

The purpose of this project was to produce efficient design for the implementation of the
preferred engineering solution, which is technically sound, cost effective, safe, constructible and
maintainable.

The principal objectives of the design are as follows:

• Choose a suitable location for the sewage treatment plant in Sainthamaruthu.

• Design Sewage collection network.

• Design sewage treatment plant.

• Study the Environmental impact due to the project.

• Provide a cost estimation for the project.

1.2 Background
Sainthamaruthu is one of the dense cities in Sri Lanka with a population of 30,442 and is located
on the east coast of Ampara District of Eastern Province, Sri Lanka. It is located in a middle part
of some other villages such as Sammanthurai on the western, Kalmunai on the Northern, Karativu
on the southern and the eastern bordered with Bay of Bengal.

Sainthamaruthu is highly urbanized and congested due to increasing commercial activities in the
main area of the village, the eastern site is potential for fishing and western site is fully engaged
with paddy cultivation.

The existing method of disposal of sewer in Sainthamaruthu is by septic tanks. Even though septic
tanks are low in cost, it has some disadvantages such as,

• Potential for ground water pollution depending upon the soil characteristics

• During wet seasons, ground water may rise into the leach field and force sewage upward
to the ground surface.

• System overflows and pollution of adjacent water wells and surface water.

1
But in Sainthamaruthu, it has nearly 8500 housing units within 1.6 km2. So, in future, it may create
a problem of infiltration during rainy season and it is required a treatment plant system in
Sainthamaruthu. Map of Sainthamaruthu indicating GN divisions is represented in Figure 1.1.

Population details of Sainthamaruthu which were obtained from Divisional secretary office is
shown in table 1.1

Table 1.1: Population details of Sainthamaruthu

GN Division Population

Sainthamaruthu - 01 2545

Sainthamaruthu - 02 2011

Sainthamaruthu - 03 2592

Sainthamaruthu - 04 1534

Sainthamaruthu - 05 1192

Sainthamaruthu - 06 1240

Sainthamaruthu - 07 1519

Sainthamaruthu - 08 1317

Sainthamaruthu - 09 2798

Sainthamaruthu - 10 1653

Sainthamaruthu - 11 1764

Sainthamaruthu - 12 1782

Sainthamaruthu - 13 1081

Sainthamaruthu - 14 1372

Sainthamaruthu - 15 2134

Sainthamaruthu - 16 2057

Sainthamaruthu - 17 1851
Total 30442

2
3
Figure 1.1: Map of Sainthamaruthu (Source: Divisional Secretary office)
1.3 Treatment Plant
Wastewater treatment is a process, wherein the contaminants are removed from wastewater as well
as household sewage, to produce waste stream or solid waste suitable for discharge or reuse.
Wastewater treatment methods are categorized into three sub-divisions, physical, chemical and
biological.

Sewage treatment, or domestic wastewater treatment, is the process of removing contaminants

from wastewater and household sewage, both runoff (effluents) and domestic. It includes physical,
chemical and biological processes to remove physical, chemical and biological contaminants. Its
objective is to produce a treated effluent and solid waste sludge suitable for discharge reuse back
into the environment.

Satisfactory disposal of wastewater, (in the case of proposed wastewater treatment system is to
surface and reuse) is dependent on treatment prior to disposal. Adequate treatment is necessary to
prevent contamination of receiving waters to a recommended standard degree.

1.4 Location
The location of the plant was selected after considering the possibilities out of three locations. It
was identified that the available locations at the coastal area does not satisfy the required buffer
area to sea and residents. Hence, the water treatment plant is decided to be constructed inland.

Figure 1.2: Proposed locations

4
 Figure 1.3: Selected location

Figure 1.4: Selected location (Zoomed)

5
1.5 Design Period
The future period for which the provision is made in designing the capacities of the various
components of the sewerage system is known as the design period. When deciding the design
period following were considered:

 Ease and difficulty in expansion

 Amount and availability of investment,
 Anticipated rate of population growth, including shifts in communities, industries and
commercial investments
 Hydraulic constraints of the systems designed
 Life of the material and equipment

Normally, treatment units are designed for 15 to 20years. The design life of the proposed plant is
20 years.

1.6 Estimating the flow

The average flow (AF) comprises domestic, commercial, institutional, industrial and
inflow/infiltration components. The domestic component consists of flows from residential and
institutional premises. The commercial component is made up of flows from offices, shops and
restaurants. The institutional component includes flows mainly from schools and universities. The
industrial component includes those flows from various manufacturing processes.

Peaking factors account for the peak flows and provide adequate safety margin in planning
sewerage facilities. Peaking factors consist of peaking factors including storm water allowance,
which are used for estimating flow in existing sewers, and peaking factors excluding storm water
allowance, which are used for estimating sewage flow in a new sewage facility with negligible
infiltration at the planning stage. To estimate flow rate of the network, the second set of peak
factors were used.

The design population was taken for the year of 2038. To calculate the projected population in
2038, 48% of population growth was assumed. Although Sainthamaruthu is already dense area
allocation for future housing schemes in forms of flats is assumed.

6
 Table 1.2: Forecasted population

Peak
Average
Estimated Domestic
GN Division Population Peak factor Daily Flow
population Flow (as
(as m3/day)
m3/day)
Sainthamaruthu - 01 2545 3767 1.9 678 1288

Sainthamaruthu - 02 2011 2976 1.95 536 1045

Sainthamaruthu - 03 2592 3836 1.9 691 1309

Sainthamaruthu - 04 1534 2270 2.01 409 821

Sainthamaruthu - 05 1192 1764 2.07 318 656

Sainthamaruthu - 06 1240 1835 2.06 330 679

Sainthamaruthu - 07 1519 2248 2.01 405 814

Sainthamaruthu - 08 1317 1949 2.04 351 717

Sainthamaruthu - 09 2798 4141 1.88 745 1402

Sainthamaruthu - 10 1653 2446 1.99 440 877

Sainthamaruthu - 11 1764 2611 1.98 470 930

Sainthamaruthu - 12 1782 2637 1.98 475 938

Sainthamaruthu - 13 1081 1600 2.09 288 601

Sainthamaruthu - 14 1372 2031 2.03 366 743

Sainthamaruthu - 15 2134 3158 1.94 568 1101

Sainthamaruthu - 16 2057 3044 1.94 548 1066

Sainthamaruthu - 17 1851 2739 1.97 493 970

Total 30442 45054 8111 15957

7
Estimated population = Population in 2018 X 148%
The design flow was calculated by the guidelines given by NWSDB by using ‘Peak factor’
Peak Factor (PF) = 4.7 x p-0.11 as provided by NWSDB
(Where ‘p’ is population in 1000)
So as per the Peak factor, the forecasted population is calculated.

Estimated flow in to sewage network = 112% of the domestic peak flow

Qd = 15957 × 112%
= 17,871 m3
≈ 18,000 m3

8
2 Design of sewage collection network system

2.1 Sewage Collection Network System

Sewage collection network system was designed to collect the sewers and give it to the treatment
plant safely and economically.

In order to design the network system, the schematic gravity main line was designed first by
considering the topography of the site. And pumping main line, manholes and pumping houses
were designed afterwards. All sewer lines are to be constructed under the road.

In order to design the gravity main lines and pumping main lines, the topography and survey map
should be available. But unfortunately, those are not available for Sainthamaruthu area.

Since it is relatively high in density and has large area, doing survey for entire Sainthamaruthu is
not possible. So, it is proposed to use Google Earth to obtain the distance and spot levels with
reasonable accuracy for the network schematic diagram.

By getting the distance and spot levels, a schematic diagram of sewer lines was proposed. For the
economic design, priority was given for the Gravity main lines. Pumping lines were used where
unavoidable situations.

According to the approximate spot levels from Google earth Sainthamaruthu area was divided to
main three sections to lay the sewage network.

9
 Figure 2.1: Main sections of sewer collecting network.

2.2 Manholes
A manhole is proposed for each of the following cases:

• Change of alignment
• Change of slope
• At each house connection to the main line
• Change of pipe diameter
• Change of pipe material
• At the beginning of each sewer

Manhole spacing is not generally exceeding 100m except on large diameter sewers (over 600mm),
and particularly those to be installed by micro-tunneling, where manhole spacing up to 120m is

10
being considered. House connections were made to the line via laterals and in some cases to the
manholes.

2.3 SewerGEMS V8i

SewerGEMS V8i is a software which allows projects to be accomplished in a short time, with high
efficiency and low costs. In the design of a sewerage system the sewer network is the basic unit
occurring repeatedly in the design process. Any savings during the design of this unit will affect
the overall cost of the sewerage system. Bentley SewerGEMS v8i is the first and only fully-
dynamic, multi-platform (GIS, CAD and Stand-Alone) sanitary and combined sewer modeling
solution. With Bentley SewerGEMS v8i, it can be analyzed all sanitary and combined sewer
system elements in one package and have the option of performing the analyses with the SWMM
algorithm or our own implicit solution of the full Saint Venant equations. The hydraulic design
consists in the computation of the transit and total flow and hydraulic modeling for network pipes
diameters or slopes. The application provides reports, layouts, longitudinal or transversal cross
sections of the pipe network, displayed in an advanced graphic system based on AutoCAD
technology. With specific tools and features included, SewerGEMS V8i offers a full range of
possibilities for the designer to draw, label, dimension and plotting the drawings of the sewage
networks. (Manoj Kumar B.)

2.3.1 Laying out a network in SewerGEMS V8i

SewerGEMS is an extremely efficient tool for laying out a storm or sanitary sewer network. It is
easy to prepare a schematic or scaled model and let SewerGEMS take care of the link-node
connectivity. In constructing the network, it is no need to be concerned with assigning labels to
pipes and nodes, because the software assigns labels automatically. A schematic drawing is one in
which pipe lengths are entered manually, in the user defined length field. In a scaled drawing, pipe
lengths are automatically calculated from the position of the pipes‘ bends and start and stop nodes
in the drawing pane.

11
 Figure 2.2: Laying out a network in sewerGEMS

2.3.2 Lay in out a network for Sainthamaruthu water treatment plant in SewerGEMS V8i

SewerGEMS V8i was used to lay in out the sewage collection network in Sainthamaruthu.
Network was developed by according to the selected three sections. All sewage of houses were
designed to flow under gravity force to a one location of each section.

Collected sewage from section 01 was designed to pump from pumping house 01 to location 01.
And collected sewage from section 02 was designed to pump from pumping house 02 to location
01. Sewage of section 03 was designed flow under gravity force to the location 01. Collected
sewage of Sanithamaruthu was designed to flow under gravity force from location 01 to treatment
plant.

Figure 2.3: sewage collection network from sewrGEMS V8i

12
 Figure 2.4: pumping house 01

Figure 2.5: pumping house 02

Figure 2.6: Location 01

13
2.3.3 Sewage network design details

Collection pipe Total length

150 mm diameter pipe 43737
225 mm diameter pipe 9785
300 mm diameter pipe 2700
375 mm diameter pipe 750
750 mm diameter pipe 5250

Total number of manhole = 262

Pumping houses = 002

Figure 2.7: A section of the sewer collecting network

14
3 Designing of the treatment plant

3.1 Choosing a technology

Choosing the most appropriate technology was a challenging but important task as it could reduce
the risk of future problems and failures. The two key issues in choosing a treatment technology
are affordability and appropriateness. Affordability relates to the economic conditions of the
community while appropriateness relates to the environmental and social conditions.

Influent and effluent characteristics were determined in order to decide what level of treatment is
necessary.

3.1.1 Influent characteristics

The general values of influent Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Total Suspended Solids
(TS) for domestic sewage, are taken as 300mg/l and 400mg/l respectively.

The volume of wastewater from a community varies from 50 to 250 gal per capita per day (gpcd)
depending on sewer uses. Approximate wastewater flows for domestic wastewater from large
single-family houses are taken as 120 gallons per person per day (450 l/d/capita).

The sense of future is an essential component when sizing the facility. The capacity of each
treatment units are to be designed according to the 50 years of future demand. The local population
growth is calculated using the population data of 20years and the inflow characteristics are
predicted according to the results.

3.1.2 Effluent characteristics

Tolerance limits for effluent discharged in to marine coastal areas of BOD and TSS are 25mg/l
and 150mg/l respectively. These standard values are followed according to the manual D7
published by National Water Supply and Drainage Board of Sri Lanka. The flow diagram of
treatment process is shown in Figure 3.1.

3.1.3 Preliminary treatment

The purpose of preliminary treatment is to protect the operation of wastewater treatment plant.
This is achieved by removing from the wastewater any constituents which can clog or damage
pumps, or interfere with subsequent treatment processes. Preliminary treatment devices of the
proposed treatment plant are, therefore to be designed to:

15
 1. Remove or to reduce in size the large, entrained, suspended or floating solids. These solids
consist of pieces of cloth, plastic, wood, paper, garbage, etc., together with some fecal
matter.
2. Remove heavy inorganic solids commonly called as grit which includes sand and gravel as
well as metal or glass.
3. Remove excessive amounts of oil and greases.

The devices which are to be designed to obtain those objectives are,

1. Racks and bar screens

2. Comminuting devices
3. Grit chamber

Influent Treatment Effluent

process
The general Pre-treatment Tolerance limits
values of for effluent
influent BOD Primary
discharged in to
and TSS for treatment
marine coastal
domestic Secondary areas,
sewage, treatment
BOD = 25mg/l
BOD =

Figure 3.1: Input, Treatment and Output

3.2 Preliminary treatment

3.2.1 Screening
Principle role:

Remove coarse material from the flow stream that could,

 Damage subsequent process equipment

 Reduce overall treatment process reliability and effectiveness

16
  Contaminate waterways

Considerations in application of screening devices to achieve effective screening management

includes,

 Degree of screening removal required because of potential effects on downstream

processes
 Health and safety of the operators as screening contain pathogenic organisms
 Odor potential
 Requirements for handling and transport
 Disposal options

Controls of the screen:

 Operation of the rake can be controlled by a float switch or a time clock through
adjustable timers.
 Options available for operating manually through the electrical push button station
or fully automatic operation.

Data for calculation is obtained from publications of Metcalf and Eddy (2003). The tables used are
attached in annexes.

17
Table 3.1: Designing calculations for bar screen
Screen type: Mechanically cleaned cable operated bar screen
Reference Description and results
Design criteria:
Appendix A
Material: Stainless steel
Table a
Bar size: Width: -10mm, Depth: -25mm
Clear bar spacing: 30mm
Slope from vertical (θ): 30°
Approach velocity (Va): 0.5 m/s
Velocity of flow through the opening of bar racks: 0.8m/s
Allowable head loss (hL): 150mm
Design calculations:
Channel cross section = Qd/Va
0.21𝑚3/𝑠
Ac = 0.5𝑚/𝑠

Ac = 0.42m2
Screen cross section = Ac Secθ
As = 0.42 sec30
As = 0.48m2
Void space ratio = Space/ (space + Thickness)
30𝑚𝑚
VSR = (30+10)𝑚𝑚

VSR = 0.75
Net area of the screen = As*VSR
Anet = 0.48m2*0.75
Anet = 0.36m2
Anet ≈ 0.4m2

18
 Velocity through the screen = Qd/ Anet
0.21𝑚3/𝑠
Vb = 0.4𝑚2

Vb = 0.525m/s

(𝑉𝑏2 −𝑉𝑎 2 ) 1
Head loss h = × 0.7
2𝑔

(0.5252 −0.52 ) 1
h = × 0.7
2𝑔

h = 0.00187m
= 1.87mm
1.87mm < 150mm
Hence okay
Assume depth of the bars (d) = 1000mm
As = 0.48m2
Length of the screen (L) = As/d
L = 0.48m2/1m
L = 480mm
L = (Thickness of a bar*number of bars) + (Space between bars*number of
spaces)
L = (10mm*n) + (30mm*(n-1))
480 = 10n + 30n – 30
510 = 40n
n = 13 bars
L = 10*13 + 30*12
L = 490mm

19
3.2.2 Comminutor
This will be a grinder which will break or cut up solids to such size that they can be returned to
the wastewater without any danger of clogging pumps or piping or affecting subsequent treatment
devices

Design criteria:

Headloss through communitor h = 0.1m – 0.3m

3.2.3 Flow equalization basin

Equalization basin is used to overcome the operational problems caused by flowrate variations, to
improve the performance of downstream processes, and to reduce size and cost of downstream
treatment facilities.

3.2.4 Grit chamber

Principal role:
Remove grits consisting of sand, gravel, cinders, or other heavy materials having subsiding
velocities or specific gravities greater than organic solids in water.

Grit chamber is provided to,

 Protect moving mechanical equipment from abrasion.

 Reduce formation of heavy deposits in pipelines, channels, and conduits.
 Reduce frequency of cleaning caused by excessive accumulation of grit

Cleaning: Cleaned by a conveyor with scrapers, buckets, or pillows mechanically.

20
Table 3.2: Design calculations for grit chamber
Chamber type: Rectangular, horizontal –flow grit chamber
Reference Description and results

Appendix A
Design criteria:
Table b
Detention time (t) = 60s
Horizontal velocity = 0.3m/s
Settling velocity for removal of 0.15mm (65-mesh) material (Vs) = 0.75m/min
Added length allowance for inlet and outlet turbulence = 30%

Design calculations:
Cross section area of grit chamber = Qd/Vh
0.21𝑚3/𝑠
As = 0.3𝑚/𝑠

As = 0.7m2
Volume of the grit chamber (V) = Qt
= 0.21m3/s * 60s
= 12.6m3
Length of the grit chamber =L
Considering the horizontal direction,
S = Ut
L = Vh*t
= 0.3m/s * 60s
= 18m
Considering vertical direction,
S = Ut
0.75𝑚/𝑠
H = × 60𝑠
60

= 0.75m
Design length of the grit chamber, (allowing for inlet and outlet turbulence)
Ld = 18* 130%
= 23.4m

21
 Width of the grit chamber = Volume/LH
12.6𝑚3
= 0.75×18𝑚

= 0.93m
≈ 1.00m

3.2.5 Primary sedimentation tank

For primary clarification, two large basins are designed be used where the primary settling is
achieved under relatively quiescent conditions. Within these basins, mechanical scrapers collect
the primary settled solids into a hopper, from which they are pumped to a sludge processing area.
Oil, grease and other floating material (scum) are to be skimmed from the surface. The effluent
will be discharged over weirs into a collection trough. In primary sedimentation, wastewater enters
a settling tank. Velocity will be reduced to approximately 1 foot per minute. The dimensions of
the tanks are designed according to inflow rate and outflow demand.

Factors affecting primary clarifier include,

 Rate of flow through the clarifier

 Wastewater characteristics (strength, temperature, amount and type of waste, and the
density, size and shape of particles)
 Performance of pretreatment processes
 Nature and amount of any wastes recycled to the primary clarifier

Principle role:
Remove readily settleable solids and floating material and thus suspended solids content.

Expected efficiency:

 Removal of 50-70 percent of suspended solids

 Removal of 25-40 percent of BOD

22
Table 3.3: Design calculations of primary sedimentation tank
Primary sedimentation tank: two numbers of circular type tanks
Reference Description and results

Appendix A Design calculations:

Table c
Overflow rate = 50m3/d
Table d
Required area A = Qd/ Overflow rate
18000𝑚3/𝑑
=
50𝑚3/𝑚2.𝑑

= 360m2
Use two circular tanks having 4m width
Tank diameter =d
𝜋𝑑2
Area = 4
𝜋𝑑2
180m2 = 4

d = 15m
𝜋152
Tank volume Vt = 4

= 1414m3
Overflow rate = Qd/A
18000𝑚3/𝑑
= 2×(180𝑚2)

= 50m3/m2.d
Retention time = Vt/Qd
1414𝑚3×24 ℎ𝑟/𝑑
= 18000𝑚3/𝑑

= 1.88h
≈ 2h
Dimensions: diameter = 15m
Depth = 4m
Calculating scour velocity,
Cohesion constant K = 0.05
Specific gravity S = 1.25
Acceleration due to gravity g = 9.80 m/s2
Diameter of particles d = 100μm

23
Darcy-weisbach friction factor f = 0.025
8𝑘(𝑠−1)𝑔𝑑 0.5
VH =( )
𝑓
0.5
8×0.05(1.25−1)9.81×100×10−6
=( )
0.025

= 0.063m/s
Peak flow horizontal velocity V = Qd/A
18000𝑚3/𝑑 1
= × 24ℎ/𝑑×3600𝑠/ℎ𝑟
2(8𝑚×4𝑚)

= 0.0033m/s
Horizontal velocity at peak flow < Scour velocity
BOD and TSS removal:
𝑡
𝑅=
𝑎 + 𝑏𝑡
Where, R = Expected removal efficiency
t = Nominal detention time
a,b = Empirical constants
2
BOD removal = 0.018+(0.020×2)

= 34.5%
2
TSS removal = 0.0075+(0.014×2)

= 56.3%

24
3.3 Secondary treatment (Biological treatment)
When selecting the biological treatment process two types of technologies were considered which
are namely suspended growth system and attach growth system. After comparing the pros and
cons of both systems use of attached growth system is proposed for the water treatment unit due
to less sludge than suspended growth systems, less energy consumption, simpler operation and
less equipment maintenance.

Attached growth systems composes of two main technologies. Those are anaerobic process and
aerobic process. Anaerobic process is considered as the most efficient and often used in where
land availability is a serious constraint. But, it has a greater risk of odor and therefore they need
larger buffer zones. Extra land required for buffer zone may counteract the saving achieved in
pond area. And also one of the main constraints when designing the wastewater treatment plant to
sainthamarudu is limited land area available.

In other hand, aerobic process has lower energy requirements, Simpler operation, no bulking
problems, needs less maintenance and has better recovery from shock loads. Considering all these
aspects use of an aerobic process is suggested for the proposed wastewater treatment plant.

 Activated  Anaerobic  Trickling  Anaerobic

sludge digester filters filters
 SBRS  RBC
 Aerobic
lagoons

Figure 3.2: Biological treatment options

25
 Biological treatment
methods

Suspended growth Attached growth

systems systems

• Produces more sludge • Produces less sludge than

suspended growth systems.
• In high rate suspended
growth systems oxygen for • Requires less energy
the biological process must be
supplied by mechanical • Simpler operation
means • Less equipment maintenance
• Requires experienced
professionals

• Not recommended for

Figure 3.3: Comparison of suspended growth and attached growth systems

Attached growth
systems

Anaerobic Aerobic
processes processes

• Most efficient and often used • lower energy requirements.

in where land availability is a
serious constraint. • Simpler operation.

• But, has a greater risk of odor. • No bulking problems.

• Therefore, their buffer zones • less maintenance.

are generally larger. • Better recovery from shock
Extra land required for buffer zone loads
may counteract the saving achieved in
pond area

Figure 3.4: Comparison of anaerobic process and aerobic process of attached

growth system

26
 Attached growth systems-
Aerobic processes

Rotating Biological
Trickling filters
contactor

• Lack of flexibility. • Working of Trickling filter is simple and

does not require any skilled
• Limited controls.
supervision.
• Mechanical wear and tear is
• They are flexible in operation.
higher compared to trickling
filters. • They are self-cleaning.

• Mechanical wear and tear is small as

they contain less mechanical
equipment.

Figure 3.5: Comparison of RBC and trickling filter

After considering units rotating biological contactor and trickling filter to be used as attached
growth system – aerobic process the trickling filter came up as the most suitable technology due
to its properties of simpler and flexible operation, not requiring any skilled supervision, self-
cleaning ability and smaller mechanical wear and tear as they contain less mechanical equipment.

27
3.3.1 Trickling filter
The trickling filter will be followed by primary treatment and the effluent will be released to
secondary clarifier. The mechanism of trickling filter is simply that when wastewater is passed
over a rock surface slime grow on the rock and water become cleaner. This process is a fixed film
biological treatment method designed to remove BOD5 and suspended solids.

The trickling filter which is proposed to be designed will be consisting of a rotating distribution
arm that sprays and evenly distributes liquid wastewater over a circular bed of fist sized plastic
media. The spaces between the media allow wastewater to trickle down through, around, and over
the media. A layer of biological slime that absorbs and consumes the waste trickling through the
bed covers the plastic material. The organisms aerobically decompose the solids, producing more
organisms and stable wastes, which either become part of the slime or are discharged back into the
wastewater flowing over the media. This slime consists of mainly bacteria, but it may also include
algae, protozoa, worms, snails, fungi, and insect larvae. The accumulating slime will be
occasionally sloughs off individual media materials. This is collected at the bottom of the filter,
along with the treated wastewater, and is passed to the secondary settling tank where it is removed.
The overall performance of the filter will be dependent on hydraulic and organic loading,
temperature, and recirculation.

28
Table 3.4: Design calculation for trickling filter
Trickling filter No. 1
Reference Description and results
Design calculations:
Appendix A 34.5% of BOD is removed by primary sedimentation.
Table e
Current BOD level,
Table f
BOD = 300mg/l*(65.5/100)
= 196.5 mg/l
Type of packing = Plastic
Recirculation ratio R =2
BOD removal efficiency = 60%-70%
BOD loading rate w = BOD5*Qd
For trickling filter No.01,
196.5𝑚𝑔 103 𝑙
w = × 0.21 ×
𝑙 𝑠

= 41265 mg/s
1+𝑅
Recirculation factor F = (1+𝑅)2
1+2
= (1+2)2

= 2.08
Use 2 trickling filters with efficiency 60% and 70%
E
Cout1 = Cin2 = (196.5*40%)mg/l
= 78.6mg/l
Cout2 = (78.6*30%)
= 23.85mg/l
23.58mg/l < 25mg/l
For trickling filter No.01,
100
𝐸1 =
𝑤1
1 + 0.4432√𝑉𝐹

29
 E1 = BOD removal efficiency for first stage filter at 20°C, including
recirculation percent.
W1 = BOD loading to filter (kg/d)
V = Volume of filter packing (m3)
F = Recirculation factor
W1 = 41265 × 10−6 𝑘𝑔/𝑠 × 3600 × 24𝑠/𝑑
= 3565.3kg/d
100
E1 = 3565.3
1+0.4432√
𝑉×2.08

100
60 = 3565.3
1+0.4432√
𝑉×2.08
V = 757.5m3
Assumed depth d1 = 6m
Volume of the tank V1 = 𝜋𝑟 2 𝑑
757.5m3 = 𝜋𝑟 2 × 6𝑚
R1 = 6.3m
Diameter = 12.6m

Trickling filter No.2

Reference Description and results
Cin2 = 78.6mg/l
BOD loading rate w2 = 78.6 × 10−6 𝑘𝑔/𝑙 × (0.21 × 103 )𝑙/𝑠 × (3600 ×
24)𝑠/𝑑
= 1426kg/d
100
E2 = 1426
1+0.4432√
𝑉×2.08

100
70 = 1426
1+0.4432√
𝑉×2.08

V = 733m2
Assume depth d2 = 5m
Volume of the tank V2 = 𝜋𝑟 2 𝑑
733m3 = 𝜋𝑟 2 × 5𝑚

30
 R2 = 6.8m
Diameter = 13.6m

3.3.2 Secondary sedimentation tank

Settling tanks following biological filters are similar to primary clarifiers. Common criteria for
secondary clarifiers of trickling filter plants are minimum side water depth of 7ft, and maximum
weir loadings the same as for intermediate tanks, although lower values are preferred.

Table 3.5: Design calculation for secondary sedimentation tank

Secondary clarifier following trickling filter
Reference Description and results
Design calculations:
Average overflow rate for settling following trickling filtration = 50m3/m2.d
Required surface area As = Flow rate/Overflow rate
18000𝑚3/𝑑
= 50𝑚3/𝑚2.𝑑

= 360m2
Use two tanks having 8m width
Length = As/2w
= 360m2/2*8m
= 22.5m
Assume free board f = 0.3m
Sludge settling depth = 0.5m
Effective depth = 4m
Total depth = 4m+0.3m+0.5m
= 4.8m
Additional depth for slope = (22.5*0.05) + 4.8m
= 1.125m +4.8m
H = 6m

31
The purpose of gravity settling following a trickling filter is to collect biological growth, or humus
flushed from filter media. These flushed solids are generally well utilized particles that settle
readily. Therefore, a collector arm that slowly scrapes the accumulated solids toward a hopper for
continuous or periodic discharge gives satisfactory performance.

32
3.4 Drawings

Figure 3.6: Bar screen

33
Figure 3.7: Primary sedimentation tank

34
Figure 3.8: Trickling filter no.2

35
3.5 Chemical unit processes
Some of the principal chemical unit processes used for wastewater treatment are, chemical
coagulation, chemical oxidation, chemical precipitation, chemical disinfection and ion exchange

Out of these chemical oxidation was selected for the chemical processing due to its suitability of
range of application, cost effectiveness and ease of gaining technology.

3.5.1 Chemical oxidation

Applications of chemical oxidation are,

 Removal of BOD, grease, etc

 Removal of ammonia (NH4+)
 Destruction of microorganisms
 Control of odors in sewers, pump stations, and treatment plants
 Removal of resistant organic compounds

Chemical Oxidation of BOD and COD:

The overall reaction of organic molecules comprising BOD, for example, with chlorine, ozone,
and hydrogen peroxide, can be represented as,

𝐶𝑙,𝑂3,𝐻2𝑂2 𝐶𝑙,𝑂3,𝐻2𝑂2
𝑂𝑟𝑔𝑎𝑛𝑖𝑐 𝑚𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑢𝑙𝑒 → 𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑜𝑥𝑦𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑚𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑢𝑙𝑒𝑠 → 𝐶𝑂2, 𝐻2𝑂, 𝑒𝑡𝑐

Chemical oxidation of Ammonia:

The chemical process in which chlorine is used to oxidize the ammonia nitrogen in solution to
nitrogen gas and other stable compounds is known as breakpoint chlorination. Most important
advantage of this process is that, with proper control, all the ammonia nitrogen in wastewater can
be oxidized.

3.6 Solid disposal system

In order to design solid processing, treatment, and disposal facilities the sources and characteristics
were identified and quantities of solids was estimated. Characteristics of solids and sludge during
wastewater treatment are summarized in table1 and typical data for the physical characteristics and

36
quantities of sludge produced from primary sedimentation and trickling filter is presented in table
2.

Table 3.6: characteristics of sludge

Solids or sludge Description

Screening Screenings include all types of organic and inorganic materials large
enough to be removed on bar racks.

Grit Grit is made up of the heavier inorganic solids that settles with
relatively high velocities. Grit may also contain significant amounts of
organic matter including fats and grease.

Primary sludge Sludge from primary settling tanks is usually gray and slimy and in
most cases, has an extremely offensive odor. Primary sludge can be
readily digested under suitable conditions of operation.

Trickling filter Humus sludge has a brown flocculent appearance and relatively
sludge inoffensive when fresh. It generally undergoes decomposition more
slowly than other undigested sludge.

Table 3.7: Quantities of sludge produced (Metcalf and Eddy, 2003)

Treatment operation Specific Specific gravity Dry solids,

gravity of of sludge Kg/103 m3
solids Range Typical
Primary sedimentation 1.4 1.02 110-170 150
Trickling filter 1.45 1.025 60-100 70
(waste bio solids)

37
The primary sedimentation tanks are used to settle sludge, while grease and oils rise to the surface
and are skimmed off. The solids are scraped off the bottom, and the scum is washed off with water
jets. The primary wastewater treatment involves gravity sedimentation of the screened wastewater
for collapsed solids. Part of the event that is suspended in the waste stream is passed through the
primary operation. The residue from this process is a concentrated suspension, called primary
sludge, which is further treated to become a bio solid

3.6.1 Disposal of sludge

Screening are discharged directly in to a screening compacter via a conveyor belt. In the compacter
screenings are dewatered to reduce volume Screenings are disposed to disposal areas including
disposal with municipal solid wastes

The dried sludge resulting from different dewatering methods should be disposed in compliance
to environmental regulations. The options considered for disposal of sludge are as follows;

 Land use: Production of bio solids which can be used as fertilizers

Soil conditioner for construction of parks and athletic fields

Soil substitute in final landfill cover

 Incineration
 Melting

Incineration and melting is extremely expensive and definitely not attractive to a country like Sri
Lanka at least in the present context. Therefore, sludge treatment was designed to achieve the
conditions necessary for land use.

3.6.2 Gravity thickening

Gravity thickening involves using specially designed circular tanks that concentrate thin sludge to
a more-dense sludge product. Thickening tank has slow-moving vertical paddles. Sludge flows
into the thickening tank, and eventually, it removes excess water from the solids collecting at the
bottom. A gravity thickener has a similar process to the tanks, but it has a sloped design so that
solids collect at the base.

38
The gravity thickener is similar to a conventional sedimentation tank in design, but has a steeper
floor slope. Tanks range from 6 – 20 m diameter & side water depth may vary from 3 – 4 m. Floor
slope is varies from 1:4 to 1:6 depending upon the type of sludge, time required for thickening &
storage volume to absorb peak solids load. The steeper slope reduces the raking problems by
providing more gravity.

3.7 Reusing the effluent

In many parts of the country water reuse is already an important element in water resource planning
and implementation. In the proposed treatment plant, properly treated effluent water is considered
for reusing in crop irrigation (Commercial) and landscape irrigation including parks and play
grounds. The excess effluent when not used will be discharged to the existing thona canal.

3.7.1 Level of treatment required

Water reuse guidelines are developed based on controlling the conventional parameters such as
pH, BOD, TSS, and pathogenic organisms. The requirement of effluent quality for reuse is
summarized in annex. The proposed reuses along with the required effluent quality is extracted
and shown in table 3.8

Table 3.8: method of reuse and required water quality

Type of use Required water quality

Food crop irrigation (Commercially PH value between 6-9
processed) BOD value less than 30mg/l
Landscape irrigation by municipal council. TSS value less than 30mg/l
Restricted area irrigation. Minimum 1mg/l residual chlorine

When applying effluent water for paddy fields pumping for the inlet of block of the fields is not
cost effective. Therefore, the effluent will be used only to irrigate surrounding paddy fields at
lower elevations. The effluent used by the municipal council for landscape irrigation will be
collected and transported using water bowsers when needed.

39
 Figure 3.9: Rough layout of the treatment plant

01 Preliminary treatment
02 Grit chamber
03 Primary sedimentation tank
04 Trickling filter no 01
05 Trickling filter no 01
06 Secondary sedimentation tank
07 Thicker-primary sludge
08 Gravity sludge
09 Bio solid dewatering
10 Chemical unit process

40
4 Environmental Impact Assignment

During the planning and design of Waste Water Treatment Plants and channeling networks the
effect on environment and community by each decision were analyzed in order to;

 Prevent harmful effects expected at the plan implementation stage

 Introduce provisions to prevent, inhibit, or mitigate harmful effects
 Improve positive effects expected with plan implementation
 Evaluate effects expected from proposed provisions

As a first step for the environmental impact assessment a social survey was done via a
Questionnaire which was given to collect the review of residents for their ideas. The following
questions were included;

1. Does waste water stay in rainy season?

2. Do you have any facilities in your house to release the waste water?

3. Do people get affected by released waste water now?

4. Do you agree with the location to construct the treatment plant?

5. Do you have any problems in constructing the treatment plant?

6. We planned to use the treated water to agricultural purpose, do you agree with that?

The results of the social survey were as follows;

 Considerable amount of the people was concerned about the emission of odor by the plant
 Few percent of people were concerned about the noise and dust during construction.
 Majority of people release black water in to septic tanks and gray water to garden
 99% of people like the idea as they face difficulties during rainy season
 60% of people were concerned about the effluent quality and releasing method
 80% of people do not agree with using the treated water for agriculture

The issues identified by the environmental impacted study are tabulated in table. The mitigations
to overcome the harmful impacts and improve positive impacts is also described.

41
 Table 4.1: the impacts from plant and suitable solutions

Effect Description
Waste The treatment plant will generate a considerable amount of waste in the form of
sludge.
This sludge must be disposed of at a non-hazardous waste disposal landfill.
Nevertheless, depending on the quality of the sludge, it could be used as fertilizer
and as filler material for landfills after treating properly.
Offensive order The operation of the treatment plant and the transportation of sludge to its final
disposal site can affect the vicinity with offensive odors.
The use of a digesting treatment before disposal and applying odor control
techniques can considerably lessen these odors.
And also land area 900m away from dense residential area is used for the project
to mitigate this issue.
Air pollution Construction and operation of the treatment plant may increase levels of exhaust
and suspended particulate. However, there is no natural or artificial structure to
prevent this diffusion, and the effect may be reduced to some extent by careful
construction procedure.
Noise and The construction and operation of the treatment plant will generate a considerable
vibration amount of noise and vibration.
A land area 900m away from dense residential area is used for the project to
mitigate this issue.
Local economy, Construction of the treatment plant and the sewerage system pipe network may
such as temporarily affect the city’s local business and transport system during its
employment installation.
and livelihoods This issue is unavoidable, but a careful network design can reduce the impact.
Soil pollution Sludge can be contaminated by industrial effluents and storm water containing
toxic substances that are mixed into the sewage collecting system.
Sludge is not pretreated prior to disposal to avoid contaminating the landfill site.

42
In addition to the above solutions, water and sludge reuse can increase the effectiveness of the
plant and proper convey of message can get farmers to accept effluent water for agriculture. ( when
effluent quality is satisfactory for reuse)

The following mitigations were done to overcome the harmful impacts and improve positive
impacts

43
5 Cost estimation

For cost estimation data was obtained from irrigation schedule of rates which was published by
irrigation department 2016. The rates for 2018 were calculated according to the inflation rate.
(To get near accurate cost estimation)

It is including;
Masonry cost
Steel cost
Hump Pipe cost
Vehicle cost
Labour cost
Earth work cost
Machinery Cost
For pipe cost calculation pipe lengths were determined according to the design and pipe
diameters were determined so that it satisfies the flowrate. Then the required number of pipes for
each diameter was obtained and cost was estimated.

For the calculation of excavation cost it was assumed that only total pipe length is escavated.
Machinery cost was not considered. Plant equipment and manhole cost was reffered from a
similar project.
10% for contingency and wastage was added to obtain rough cost estimation.

Table 5.1: Summery of data

No Description of Items Maximum Minimum

01 Ground Level 12m 1m
02 Discharge 235l/s 4.7 l/s
03 Slope 0.001 0.001
04 Velocity 3.0 m/s 0.6 m/s
05 Dia. Of Pipe 1050 mm 150 mm
06 Infiltration Rate 5000 l/km/day 500 l/km/day

44
 Table 5.2: Calculation of quantities

Diameter (mm) Length Of Pipe (ft)

150 φ 43737

300 φ 9785

450 φ 2700

750 φ 750

1050 φ 5250

Total Length 62,222

Table 5.3: Cost for pipes

Cost for 150mm Pipes (RS) 20,011,020.00

Cost for 300mm Pipes (RS) 6,166,476.00
Cost for 450mm Pipes (RS) 2,068,740.00
Cost for 750mm Pipes (RS) 27,360.00
Cost for 1050mm Pipes (RS) 171,360.00
Total cost for pipes(Rs) 28,444,956.00

Calculation for excavation

Total length of excavation = 62,222ft (18965m)
Cost for excavate 1 Cu = Rs. 443.00
Average total cost for excavation = Rs. 8,401,495.00

Cost for manholes

Total number of manholes = 262
Total Average cost for manholes = Rs. 10,480,000.00

45
 Table 5.4: Summery of total costs

Component Cost (Rs.)

Excavation 8,401,495.00
Manholes 10,480,000.00
Pipes 28,444,956.00
Treatment plant construction 769,892,369.00
Total 817,218,820.00
Contingencies and wastage 10% 81,721,882.00
Rough cost estimation 898,940,702.00

46
References

1. Al -Dosary, S., Galal, M. and Halim, A. (2019). Environmental Impact Assessment of

Wastewater Treatment Plants. International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied
Sciences, 4(1).
2. Allcostdata.info. (2019). Costs for Manholes, Concrete, 4 Ft (1.2M) Dia. [online]
Available at: http://www.allcostdata.info/browse.html/025605000/Manholes,-Concrete,-
4-Ft-(1.2M)-Dia. [Accessed 30 Dec. 2018].
3. Davis, M. (2017). Water and wastewater engineering. New York: McGraw-Hill
Education.
4. Ksibi, M. (2006). Chemical oxidation with hydrogen peroxide for domestic wastewater
treatment. Chemical Engineering Journal, 119(2-3), pp.161-165.
5. Marshall, K. and Marshall, K. (2019). How Much Does an Industrial Water Treatment
System Cost. [online] Samco Tech. Available at: https://www.samcotech.com/how-much-
does-an-industrial-water-treatment-system-cost/ [Accessed 30 Dec. 2018].
6. Metcalf and Eddy (2019). Wastewater engineering- treatment and reuse. 4th ed. McGraw
Hill Education (India).
7. Piao, W. and Kim, Y. (2016). Evaluation of monthly environmental loads from municipal
wastewater treatment plants operation using life cycle assessment. Environmental
Engineering Research, 21(3), pp.284-290.

47
Appendix A

(The tables are obtained from Metcalf and Eddy (2019). Wastewater engineering- treatment and
reuse. 4th ed. McGraw Hill Education (India).)

Table a. Typical design information for manually and mechanically cleaned bar racks.

Table b. Typical design information for horizontal flow grit chambers.

48
 Table c. Typical design information for primary sedimentation tank

Table d. Typical dimensional data for rectangular and circular sedimentation

tanks used for primary treatment of wastewater.

49
Table e. Historical classification of trickling filters applications

Table f. Trickling filter applications, loadings and effluent quality

50
Table g. Summary of EPA suggested guidelines for water reuse

51