In order to make water sources safe for consumption or release back into the environment, water and wastewater treatment involves a number of procedures. Since untreated water may include dangerous bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that can lead to illness and pollution, water and wastewater treatment is crucial for maintaining public health and protecting the environment.
There are often numerous steps in the treatment procedure, including:
Coagulation and flocculation:
The process of coagulation involves mixing a chemical with water, usually a metal salt like aluminium sulphate or ferric chloride. The substance creates coagulant, which are positively charged particles that draw and bind negatively charged water pollutants like clay, silt, and other organic and inorganic materials.
After coagulation, the water is gently mixed to encourage the production of bigger particles known as flocs. Typically, flocculation takes place in a mixing tank, where the water is gently stirred to help the flocs expand.
The water that has been coagulated and flocculated is then allowed to sit in a tank of sedimentation, where the larger flocs condense to form sludge at the bottom of the tank. The water is then run through many filters to get rid of any contaminants left over after the sludge has been removed.
The removal of impurities and toxins that may have a detrimental influence on the environment and public health is accomplished through the coagulation and flocculation process, which is a crucial stage in the treatment of water and wastewater. Automation and optimisation of the coagulation and flocculation processes using control and monitoring systems, such as the MicroLogix 1400 PLC, can boost the consistency and efficiency of water treatment.
The MicroLogix 1400 PLC can be used to monitor the water level in the sedimentation tank in addition to regulating the sedimentation process. As necessary, the flow rate of the incoming water can be changed to maintain the appropriate water level. In order to make sure that the water meets the required quality standards, the PLC can also be used to monitor the quality of the clarified water as it exits the sedimentation tank and make necessary treatment adjustments.
Filtration:
In water and wastewater treatment facilities, the filtration process can also be managed and seen using the MicroLogix 1400 PLC. Before the water is delivered or released, filtration removes any leftover contaminants and particles, making it a key step in the treatment process.
To make sure that the water is passing through the filters at the proper rate, the PLC can be configured to monitor the flow rate of the water through the filters and modify the flow rate as necessary. The pressure and temperature of the water entering and leaving the filters may also be monitored using the PLC, and the filtration process can be changed as necessary to maintain the required pressure and temperature levels.
The backwashing procedure, which involves turning the water flow around to remove any accumulated particles and debris, can also be automated using the MicroLogix 1400 PLC. Based on the flow rate, pressure, and other factors, the PLC can be programmed to start the backwashing operation at the right moment and make sure that the process is completed successfully.
Disinfection:
In water and wastewater treatment facilities, the Rockwell Automation 1766-L32BXB MicroLogix 1400 PLC can also be utilised to regulate and observe the disinfection procedure. Disinfection, which removes any lingering bacteria, viruses, and other hazardous microbes from the water, is an essential stage in the treatment process.
The PLC can be set up to check the water’s concentration of disinfectants like chlorine, ozone, or ultraviolet light and modify the dosage as necessary to keep the levels there. In order to make sure that the water is being adequately disinfected, the PLC can also be used to monitor the flow rate of the water through the disinfection system and change the flow rate as necessary.
Additionally, the UV lamps and chlorine feed systems may be monitored for wear and tear using the MicroLogix 1400 PLC, which can then sound an alarm or alert when maintenance or repairs are required. The PLC can assist in ensuring that the water is adequately treated and that the disinfection system is working at its best by automating the disinfection process and monitoring the machinery.
Distribution:
A system of pipes is used to deliver the purified water to residences and businesses.
Similar methods are used in wastewater treatment, but there are also more steps like primary and secondary treatment where organic debris and nutrients are taken out of the wastewater.
The process of treating water and wastewater is normally done at specialised treatment facilities, where a range of tools and systems are employed. Automation and process optimisation can improve the effectiveness, uniformity, and dependability of the treatment operations. Such systems include control and monitoring systems like the MicroLogix 1400 PLC.
