Lawrence Quarles

african american wastewater operator taking notes

Why Flow Equalization Matters in Wastewater Treatment

Wastewater treatment is an essential process for ensuring clean and safe water. One critical component in this process is flow equalization. But what exactly does flow equalization do, and why is it so important in wastewater treatment systems? Flow equalization helps manage the variations in wastewater flow, ensuring that treatment plants operate efficiently and effectively. […]

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African American female wastewater Lab tech

How to Handle Seasonal Variations in BOD Loadings

What is BOD? Biological Oxygen Demand, or BOD, is a measure of the amount of oxygen that microorganisms will consume while decomposing organic matter in water. It is an important parameter in assessing water quality because high BOD indicates high levels of organic pollution, which can harm aquatic life. Elevated BOD levels can lead to

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African American female wastewater Lab tech

The Difference Between BOD and COD in Water Treatment

Have you ever wondered how water treatment facilities manage to clean our water so effectively? At the heart of this process are two critical measurements: BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) and COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand). These are essential in determining the quality of water and its suitability for use. Understanding the difference between these two can

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wastewater operators and engineers looking at blueprints

Membrane Bioreactors vs. Conventional Activated Sludge

Have you ever wondered about the differences between membrane bioreactors (MBRs) and conventional activated sludge (CAS) systems when it comes to wastewater treatment? Both technologies play essential roles in treating and purifying wastewater, yet they operate in distinctive ways with unique advantages and limitations. By understanding their key differences, you can make informed decisions about

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operator looking a water sample in a beaker

Understanding the Ecological Effects of Wastewater Discharge

Wastewater discharge has significant impacts on aquatic ecosystems, affecting the water quality, biodiversity, and overall ecological balance. When untreated or poorly treated wastewater is released into water bodies, it introduces a variety of pollutants such as nutrients, pathogens, heavy metals, and organic compounds. These pollutants can lead to eutrophication, a process where excessive nutrients cause

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