Research on Energy Savings through Floating DO Measuring Device in SBR Wastewater Treatment Method

Objectives : The objective of this study is to propose an optimal operational control method to ensure stable effluent water quality and reduce treatment costs in the SBR(Sequencing Batch Reactor) wastewater treatment process. In particular, the study aims to maintain the dissolved oxygen(DO) concentration required for microorganisms while reducing power costs associated with excessive aeration.Methods : To address issues with conventional fixed DO sensors, such as scum formation, inaccuracies caused by bubbles and strong flow velocities during aeration, and reduced reliability due to fluctuating water levels, a floating DO sensor was introduced to measure DO concentrations in real-time. Based on these real-time measurements, the optimal DO concentration required for microbial activity was calculated, and a system was designed to automatically control the airflow rate set value(SV) of the turbo blower.Results and Discussion : The application of a single-variable DO control method effectively reduced the power consumption required for aeration in the SBR aeration tank. This approach prevented energy waste caused by excessive aeration while maintaining the appropriate DO concentration needed for microbial activity. These results demonstrate that the proposed method improves the reliability and efficiency of the system.Conclusion : The real-time DO control method using a floating DO sensor enables energy savings and ensures stable effluent water quality in the SBR process. The proposed method overcomes the limitations of conventional fixed DO sensors, contributing to reduced power costs and improved process efficiency.