How To Reduce Upfront Costs When Designing Wastewater Systems

MAC Water Technologies often consults or Design-Builds Industrial wastewater systems. There are MANY different applications on this topic, however, the same fundamentals show up time and time again. This article will help you learn from other’s mistakes.

Salesmen Verse Engineering Sales

Salesmen wish to sell things and engineering sales wishes to consult the customer so they can make an educated decision. Most wastewater treatment equipment companies are salesmen-based. They know one product really well and how it works in perfect conditions, and you tell them what you want instead of them making recommendations with reasons why. If it doesn’t work the way you expected, it’s your fault. The salesman just took your order. Working with someone who can discuss the pros and cons of equipment is extremely important when it comes to wastewater and being able to make an educated decision. Find someone who understands processes, not just products.

Particle Count Distribution Testing

On many occasions a sediment filter can get installed and become the cause of a lot of problems. A Particle Count Distribution test is less than $400 and is full of valuable information. A Particle Distribution Count test shows how many particles are a specific size. This information allows you to accurately select the correct filtration strategy to implement.

COD and BOD Testing

COD stands for Chemical Oxygen Demand. This test helps measure organic pollutants in water samples to indicate your water quality.

BOD stands for Biochemical Oxygen Demand. This test helps by measuring the chemical oxidation of inorganic matter and the amount of oxygen consumed by microorganisms.

The difference in the two tests will estimate the amount of inorganic loading in water, which will help point towards what additional testing and/or processing strategies will work best for that specific application.

Dewatering Equipment

Selecting dewatering equipment is now like toothpaste shopping; there’s a LOT to choose from. While Filter Presses do have their useful applications, they are not the immediate go-to anymore. The Particle Count Distribution test is very helpful in selecting equipment and Auto cleaning screen technology has come a long way. The tighter the screen doesn't always equal the better dewatering process. Too tight of a screen will cause the particles to push through because there’s not enough room for the water to go through. And just because the auto strainer is significantly less expensive than most dewatering equipment doesn’t mean it isn't effective. Many customers don't  originally select this equipment because it doesn't cost enough to have the perception of being able to work properly. Keep it simple when looking at dewatering equipment.

NEED MORE HELP?

While there are many different things that can be done incorrectly, these are the top four areas we consistently see when mistakes are made. Consulting service by the engineers at MAC Water Technologies can help you save money and make your wastewater systems more efficient.