News

New Headworks Has Got the Grit June 15, 2022

The last few months have been very exciting at the Wastewater Treatment Plant No. 1. The installation of the new headworks has been ongoing and is now finished and fully operational.

What is the headworks? The headworks is the first step that wastewater goes through at the wastewater treatment plant. These machines are very important to the rest of the treatment process at the plant. The machines remove inorganic material and help reduce wear on the remaining process equipment.  This proper screening and debris removal is imperative to the entire wastewater system. Equipment in the headworks include pumps, bar screen, screening compactor, grit removal systems, and a grit washing system.

The bar screen is one of the most important parts of the wastewater treatment plant as it removes large solids, rags, and debris from the incoming wastewater. Items that are not organic can causes significant issues at the plant. Rags are one of the leading causes to pump malfunctions throughout the plant. The new screen has openings of 3/16”, which is a huge improvement from the headworks that was previously in place.

The grit system is also very important as it helps remove the sand, rocks, and other organic materials from entering the treatment process. If the grit is not removed at the beginning of the plant, the volume of grit will accumulate, reducing the plant’s capacity and decreasing the volume of the basins. Grit also wears on pumps and piping and reduces their expected life.

Please always remember to NOT put inorganic objects (such as feminine products, wipes, paper towels, condoms, rags, diapers, etc.) down the drains. Only toilet paper is degradable and anything else can cause problems throughout the collection system on its way to the treatment plant. Most equipment in the City is continuously monitored and alerts operators when there is an issue. You can help reduce the wear and tear on the equipment and unnecessary overtime costs by only disposing of toilet paper down the drain.