Dynamic Modeling of Primary Sedimentation

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Abstract
The paper describes the development of a simple, lumpedparameter model of primary sedimentation dynamics with reference to an intensive, 10‐day experiment at the Norwich Sewage Works in eastern England. The model quantifies successfully the interactions among essentially five state variables: total suspended solids, volatile suspended solids, total chemical oxygen demand (COD), soluble chemical oxygen demand, and ammonium‐N concentrations. In particular, the model provides insight into the settling characteristics of different substances in different forms of sewage, and it illuminates the capacity for soluble COD removal and ammonium‐N release in the sedimentation unit. It is concluded that specialized experimentation, with an appropriately fast sampling frequency of observation, is crucial in identifying wastewater treatment process dynamics.