Operational Process of Small-Scale Integrated Wastewater Treatment Equipment in Scenic Areas
Small-scale integrated wastewater treatment equipment in scenic areas is designed to handle seasonal fluctuations, high visitor peaks, strict discharge requirements, and environmentally sensitive locations. Compared with industrial or municipal systems, it must prioritize low noise, low energy consumption, stable effluent quality, and minimal maintenance. Its operational process is based on a compact biological treatment system combined with automated control.
1. Influent Collection and Flow Regulation
Wastewater in scenic areas is highly variable due to tourism patterns.
Key characteristics:
Peak flow during holidays and weekends
Low flow during off-season periods
Mixed domestic wastewater from restaurants, toilets, and hotels
Operational process:
Wastewater is first collected through a pipe network
Flow enters an equalization tank to stabilize hydraulic load
Large fluctuations are buffered before biological treatment
This step prevents system shock loading and ensures stable downstream operation.
2. Pretreatment Stage (Screening and Sedimentation)
Pretreatment is essential to remove solids and protect equipment.
Process includes:
Fine screening to remove plastics, paper, and debris
Grit and sand settling to reduce abrasion
Oil-water separation (especially in tourist catering areas)
This stage ensures smooth operation of pumps and prevents clogging in biological tanks.
3. Anaerobic / Anoxic Biological Reaction Stage
This stage focuses on initial organic decomposition and nitrogen removal.
Main functions:
Hydrolysis and acidification of organic matter
Denitrification under low oxygen conditions
Reduction of organic load before aerobic treatment
Microbial activity is controlled through sludge concentration and hydraulic retention time.
4. Aerobic Biological Treatment Stage
This is the core purification stage of the system.
Operational features:
Continuous aeration using fine bubble diffusers
Maintenance of dissolved oxygen (DO) between 2–4 mg/L
High-efficiency degradation of COD, BOD, and ammonia nitrogen
Blowers operate under automatic control based on load demand, ensuring energy efficiency.
5. Secondary Sedimentation or Membrane Separation
After biological treatment, solid-liquid separation is required.
Two common configurations:
Gravity sedimentation tank (clarifier)
Membrane bioreactor (MBR) system
Function:
Separate activated sludge from treated water
Ensure effluent clarity and compliance
Return sludge to maintain microbial concentration
6. Sludge Return and Excess Sludge Handling
Sludge management is critical for system stability.
Operational process:
Part of sludge is returned to maintain biomass concentration
Excess sludge is periodically withdrawn
Sludge is stored or transported for centralized treatment
Proper sludge balance ensures stable biological performance.
7. Disinfection and Effluent Polishing
Due to strict environmental requirements in scenic areas, disinfection is often required.
Methods include:
Chlorine dosing (sodium hypochlorite)
UV disinfection systems
Ozone treatment in high-standard zones
This step ensures pathogen removal before discharge or reuse.
8. Automation and Intelligent Control System
Modern scenic area systems rely heavily on automation to reduce labor needs.
Functions include:
Automatic blower start/stop based on DO sensors
Pump level control
Alarm system for abnormal operation
Remote monitoring via cloud platforms
This is essential for unattended or semi-unattended operation.
9. Seasonal Operation Adjustment Strategy
Scenic areas require flexible operation due to seasonal tourism.
Operational adjustments:
Increase aeration and hydraulic capacity during peak season
Reduce energy consumption in off-season
Adjust sludge wasting frequency based on load
Prevent odor issues in hot weather
Seasonal adaptation ensures stable effluent quality year-round.
10. Energy Saving and Low-Noise Design Considerations
Since scenic areas are sensitive environments, operation must minimize disturbance.
Key measures:
Low-noise blowers and vibration reduction design
Energy-efficient aeration control
Intermittent operation during low load periods
Underground or concealed installation
This ensures environmental harmony and visitor comfort.
Conclusion
The operational process of small-scale integrated wastewater treatment equipment in scenic areas is based on flow equalization, multi-stage biological treatment, efficient solid-liquid separation, and intelligent automation control. By combining stable aeration management, sludge control, seasonal adjustment, and energy-saving design, the system can achieve reliable and environmentally friendly wastewater treatment while meeting the strict ecological requirements of tourist areas.
References
Metcalf & Eddy – Wastewater Engineering: Treatment and Resource Recovery
U.S. EPA – Small Community and Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual
Water Environment Federation (WEF) – Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Operations Guide
International Water Association (IWA) – Sustainable Wastewater Management in Sensitive Areas
