PECM Issue 21 2016 | Page 71

The new tanks are fitted with three-quarter bridge scrapers for the activated sludge process (ASP). A&J Fabtech also supplied GRP launders, a drop box, weir plates, a weir cleaning system, dipping scum box, slip rings, loss of rotation sensors, torque limiting sensors, and a scum concentration collection system. Refurbishing the existing tanks included removal of their existing three-quarter bridges and installation of new ones, while the Mckinney baffles were upgraded from 5m to 8.2m diameter to provide enhanced flow control in the effluent channel. As with the new tanks, a weir cleaning system, dipping scum box, slip rings, loss of rotation sensors, torque limiting sensors and scum concentration collection system have also been provided. The increased treatment capacity, especially in terms of secondary treatment processes, has been instrumental in reducing the ammonia levels in the final effluent that is discharged to the River Don. Under the European Freshwater Fish Directive, the treatment works is required to achieve a level of 3 mg/l or less of ammonia in order to comply. Since the refurbishment of Blackburn Meadows, there have been regular sightings of trout in the city centre reaches of the River Don. “It’s the first time such fish have been so far upstream in over 100 years, and is one of the key indicators of the project’s success” says Shaun Brosnan. “There are plans to reintroduce salmon too, something that would have been completely inconceivable just a few years ago.” www.ajfabtech.com