Fine screen installation at Aarle-Rixtel WWTP
The Aarle-Rixtel wastewater treatment plant is the first treatment plant in the Netherlands to use a full-scale fine screen installation. This installation removes screened material, mainly cellulose fibres from toilet paper, at the beginning of the treatment process. The capacity of the treatment plant also had to be increased due to the increasing wastewater supply and possible stricter wastewater regulations in the future. Iv was responsible for carrying out the variant study and preparing the design and draft specification for the fine screen installation. The study focused on the total cost of ownership and finding the most efficient solution. Iv ensured that the installation was optimally integrated into the existing treatment process and met the stringent requirements of the Water Framework Directive.
Aarle-Rixtel wastewater treatment plant has the unique situation of having two identical treatment lines. The fine screen installation is built into one of the lines, which allows the impact of the fine screens on the operation to be closely monitored. Finding a solution that would increase treatment capacity while minimising cost and impact on the existing system was essential. In addition, Iv had to consider the potential benefits of the screened material, such as its use for biogas production and other applications. The project required a careful balance between technical innovation and practical feasibility.
The fine screen installation at the Aarle-Rixtel wastewater treatment plant delivers impressive results. The energy required for aeration has been reduced by 15%, sludge production reduced by 10%, and the plant’s capacity increased by 10%. The screened material, consisting mainly of cellulose fibres, can be used for biogas production or as a fibre source for various applications. This innovative project has demonstrated that fine screening technology is a robust and efficient addition to the treatment process, with no negative impact on final effluent quality or sludge dewatering.
Paul, managing director Water, would be delighted to discuss this with you! Get in touch via +31 88 943 3900 or send a message.
