New Berlin, Union County
COMPLETED: 2010
The Virginia Initiative Plant (VIP) Process for this 0.200-MGD WWTP complies with PA DEP’s Chesapeake Bay Strategy by reducing effluent Nitrogen and Phosphorus to annual averages of 5.0 mg/L TN and 0.5 mg/L TP biologically, without chemicals. A Peak Flow Bypass step-feeds wet weather flows to the final oxic zone, preserving nutrient removal during wet weather. New Berlin has treated 1.3 MDG (6.5X Qd), without interrupting nutrient removal.
Reactors include anaerobic, anoxic, and oxic zones. Submersible mixers maintain solids in suspension in the anaerobic and anoxic zones. Membrane diffusers oxidize the aerobic zone. Mixed liquor recycle (MLR) pumps draw denitrified mixed liquor from the end of the anoxic zone and recycle it to the start of the anaerobic zone to mix with raw wastewater, depleting oxygen and releasing phosphorus. Nitrate recycle (NR) pumps draw nitrified mixed liquor from the end of the oxic zone and recycle it to the start of the anoxic zone, to mix with anaerobic mixed liquor and deplete nitrates. Pumps also return activated sludge (RAS, which also contains nitrates) from the secondary clarifiers to the reactors. In the oxic zone luxury uptake of phosphorus occurs, along with nitrification and the oxidation of BOD.
PLC’s tied to a central plant computer automate D.O. control and flow-pace RAS and NR pumping. The Pump and Blower Building house the pumps, aeration blowers, power distribution, and controls. An emergency generator provides 100% backup power.