{"id":38410,"date":"2023-10-03T18:43:20","date_gmt":"2023-10-03T18:43:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hubbardhall.com\/?p=38410"},"modified":"2023-10-03T21:23:15","modified_gmt":"2023-10-03T21:23:15","slug":"when-to-take-a-closer-look","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hubbardhall.com\/proof\/featured-experts\/when-to-take-a-closer-look","title":{"rendered":"When to Take a Closer Look"},"content":{"rendered":"

Microscopic examination of mixed liquor can be a significant aid in the evaluation of the activated sludge process. The presence of various microorganisms within the sludge floc can rapidly indicate good or poor treatment. One of the operator\u2019s primary jobs is to provide a favorable environment to support bug life. Knowing when and how to use a microscope is one of the most important tools in an operator\u2019s toolbox to help provide this favorable environment.<\/p>\n

Looking around your wastewater lab, you may have noticed an old grade school quality microscope gathering dust in a forgotten corner. While this piece of equipment may not be a Cadillac, it can certainly be useful in observing basic mixed liquor characteristics. More sophisticated microscopes can show greater detail, but the important thing to remember is to use this tool to your benefit and not be intimidated. The cost of a good microscope is around 2,000 to 3,000 dollars. The grade school microscope in the corner of the room is a good start until you can upgrade to a phase contrast microscope for improved viewing clarity. Optional equipment such as a camera is also useful but not a necessity.<\/p>\n

The question is, when and how do I use this tool?<\/p>\n

For the most part, the answer is: regularly while the system is running properly. Looking at changes in the biology can reveal process problems before they are detected in effluent quality. These biological changes can be anything from poor floc formation, the appearance of various filaments, or the loss of higher life forms. These changes can indicate various conditions from long sludge age and low D.O. to high levels of FOG and potentially toxic substances in the influent.<\/p>\n

Being a visual tool, the microscope can help the operator give life to many of the abstract tests and calculations necessary for plant operation. Regular observations can reveal characteristics of system health, sludge age, changes in operational pressures, nutrient removal efficiency, influent loading, and is useful in remediation of filamentous organisms. Nothing grabs your interest like looking at your bugs on their level, and how they are thriving within your plant. The microscope helps to put the operator in the bugs\u2019 world.<\/p>\n

General usage for process control involves observing several key features.<\/p>\n