An approach to controlling sludge age in the activated sludge process

Development of better design and control methods is an obvious way for improving plant operation and performance in an activated sludge process. A different approach to the control systems in the activated sludge wastewater treatment process is presented. This system is based on the control of the sludge age (Θc) and the microorganism concentration (MLSS) in the aerator, by adjusting the sludge recycle and wastage flow rates, respectively.