Lawrence Quarles

a wastewater operator pinching his nose

How to Tackle Odor in Wastewater Treatment

Odor problems can arise from a variety of sources, including industrial processes, wastewater treatment plants, landfills, and agricultural operations. These odors are often the result of the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemical compounds into the air. In industrial settings, these compounds can be emitted from manufacturing processes, chemical reactions, and storage […]

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wastewater operator sitting in a control room (3)

Overcoming Flow Variability in Wastewater Systems

Flow variability in wastewater treatment refers to the fluctuations in the volume and rate of wastewater entering the treatment plant. These fluctuations can be caused by a variety of factors, including weather patterns, industrial discharges, and population growth. The impact of flow variability on wastewater treatment can be significant, as it can lead to overloading

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Lab tech testing water sample

How Specific Oxygen Uptake Rate Impacts Wastewater Treatment

Have you ever wondered how scientists measure how effectively wastewater is being treated? One of the key metrics they use is the Specific Oxygen Uptake Rate (SOUR). It might sound a bit technical, but understanding SOUR can be crucial when it comes to the successful management and treatment of wastewater. Oxygen is a critical element

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operators on a clarifier

Return Activated Sludge vs. Waste Activated

Have you ever wondered about the precise differences between return activated sludge and waste activated sludge? It’s a topic that’s crucial for anyone involved in wastewater treatment management but can seem a bit daunting with all the technical jargon involved. Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense, clarify why it matters, and

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SCADA

Controlling Nitrification in Activated Sludge Systems

Have you ever wondered how wastewater treatment plants manage to clean water so effectively? One crucial process in these plants is called nitrification, a part of the nitrogen cycle that helps remove harmful ammonium from wastewater. But controlling this process can be a bit of a puzzle, especially in activated sludge systems. Understanding Nitrification Nitrification

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wastewater discharging into a river

Strategies to Reduce Eutrophication

Have you ever wondered what actions can effectively curb eutrophication in our water bodies? Eutrophication is a growing concern for ecosystems across the globe, posing a significant threat to aquatic life and water quality. Developing strategies to combat this process is crucial to maintaining healthy waterways and safeguarding our environment. Understanding Eutrophication Eutrophication occurs when

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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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