Evaluación hidráulica y propuesta de rediseño del sedimentador de alta tasa de la Planta de Tratamiento de Agua Potable (PTAP) de Nero

Abstract

The present research "Hydraulic evaluation and redesign proposal of the high-rate settler of the Nero (DWTP) Drinking Water Treatment Plant" has two main focuses: the evaluation of the current conditions of the settler, and then a redesign proposal of the unit with modifications in its configuration to optimize its operation. The study was carried out with tests and in situ measurements at the Nero Drinking Water Treatment Plant (DWTP), as well as with laboratory tests. The DWTP's high rate settler has two chambers and ABS square tubular modules in the settling area. The present study focuses on the operation of the unit, assessing the effective sedimentation of the floc and evaluating the quality of the settled water. The Drinking Water Treatment Plant experienced an increase in demand of its initially designed water flow (60 l/s), which produced an increase in the flow (74 l/s) to the unit. Through laboratory tests it is determined that the sedimentation chambers have a maximum turbidity removal efficiency of 35%, due to the nature of the flocs produced in previous processes, also through in situ time history records an increase in turbidity is observed after the sedimentation process. For this reason, for future scenarios for a greater flow demand, improvements are required in the flocculation processes, to increase the efficiency of turbidity and color removal at the outlet of the sedimentation chambers.