_O & M MANUAL - WEST LANE MOBILE HOME PARK

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Initial Operation The nature of the Treatment System does not permit the development of maximum treatment efficiency immediately upon placing the plant in operation. It is necessary to accumulate sewage solids and biological organisms in sufficient concentration to form good activated sludge before optimum conditions for efficient treatment will be obtained. This may require several days to several weeks of operation, depending on the volume and strength of sewage received. As very low flow and weak sewage frequently characterize the initial start-up period and delays the development of good activated sludge, the operator should make frequent checks of the following: 1. The blowers and motors should be checked frequently to make certain they are running smoothly and not overheating. 2. If the flow into the plant is light, it is suggested that the blower running time be held to a minimum and then increased as the sewage flow develops to design flow. Where the initial flow of sewage into the plant is very low, it may be desirable to limit the amount of air supplied by intermittent blower operation. While too much air is the condition most prevailing during the initial start-up, it is absolutely necessary to provide sufficient air supply to avoid septic conditions in the treatment plant. These conditions are characterized by a dark gray or black appearance in the aeration tank and generally by a "rotten egg" or obnoxious tank odor. 3. Check that the Airlift Pumps are operating continuously and are discharging sludge at a constant rate. In the event the airlifts are not discharging at a constant rate; a clogged unit is the probable cause and should be corrected immediately. The following measure should be taken to correct the problem: (a) Check Air Supply Lines to Airlift that all connections are tight and that air is entering Airlift Units. Open Air Regulating Valve to "FULL" position and if air is entering unit, a gurgling noise should be heard. If the unit is partially clogged the increased air pressure may free it. If unit is still clogged, close some of the Air Valves on Diffuser Header Assemblies in Aeration Tank, this will provide increased air pressure for the Airlift Units. (b) Cap discharge end of Airlifts, and open the air regulating valves to "FULL" position, close air valves on Diffuser Header Assemblies in Aeration Tank. The backpressure may force the blockage back through into the tank. If unit is cleared, air bubbles will be seen rising to surface at the airlift riser pipe. (c) Remove the plug in tee, which is located at the top of the Airlift and Rod Airlift Unit. Water pressure during this operation will also help to clean unit. (d) Should the above measures fail to clear clogging condition, remove units from tank for clearing. During the initial stall up period, the accumulation of sludge on the hopper sides in the clarifier tank is a common problem, which can be completely eliminated through a proper maintenance program on the plant. _ pcs;i�n%startup-Pre f i ninan-1-