Introduction:

The treatment of oily wastewater is a critical process that plays a pivotal role in
safeguarding the environment and ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory
standards. Oily wastewater, often generated from industrial processes, can pose
significant environmental hazards due to its high levels of oil and grease,
suspended solids, and potentially harmful contaminants. Effective treatment
methods are essential to remove these pollutants and reduce the impact of
discharged wastewater on surrounding ecosystems, particularly when it is intended
for discharge into rivers, lakes, or other natural bodies of water.

In this context, the preliminary treatment of oily wastewater serves as a crucial first
step in the overall wastewater treatment process. It involves the removal of large
debris, grit, and other coarse solids, which not only protects downstream
equipment from damage and clogging but also lays the foundation for subsequent
treatment stages to be more efficient and effective. By selecting the appropriate
screening and grit removal equipment, wastewater treatment facilities can better
prepare the wastewater for further processing, thereby enhancing the overall
treatment efficiency and ensuring the safety and integrity of the receiving water
bodies.

In this paper, we will delve into the significance of preliminary treatment in the
context of oily wastewater treatment. We will explore the different unit selection
options available and the necessary equipment required to achieve optimal results.
By understanding the intricacies of this essential step, water treatment
professionals and decision-makers can make informed choices when selecting
equipment and suppliers, ultimately contributing to a sustainable and
environmentally responsible approach to oily wastewater treatment. With an
emphasis on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to regulatory standards,
the following sections will guide readers through the critical considerations when
embarking on the journey of preliminary treatment for oily wastewater.

Case

Based on the provided data, it seems you have a sample of outlet oily wastewater
that needs to be analyzed according to specific criteria set by the Iraqi
Government. Here's a summary of the results:

1. pH: 8.5 (Specification: 6 - 9.5)

2. T.D.S. (Total Dissolved Solids) ppm: 251 (Specification: Less than 1500)

3. Conductivity (Cond) : 501 (Specification: Less than 3000)

4. Temperature: 28.2°C (Specification: Less than 35°C)

5. Dissolved Oxygen (D.O2) ppm: 1.6 (Specification: Larger than 5 ppm)

6. Turbidity FTU (Formazin Turbidity Units): 117 (Specification: 50 FTU

max.)

7. Oil ppm: 248.2 (Specification: Less than 10 ppm)

8. NO3 (Nitrate) ppm: Not specified, but it should be less than 50 ppm.

9. SO-24 (Sulfate): Not specified, but it should be less than 400 ppm.

10.Sal% (Salinity): Not specified, but it should be less than 4%.

11.Chloride (CL) ppm: Not specified, but it should be less than 600 ppm.

12.S.S (Suspended Solids) ppm: Not specified, but it should be less than 60
ppm.

13.COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) ppm: 160 (Specification: Less than 100
ppm)
 14.BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) ppm: 81 (Specification: Less than 40
ppm)

Based on the results, some parameters (Dissolved Oxygen, Turbidity, Oil, COD,
and BOD) do not meet the specified criteria set by the Iraqi Government. It
indicates that the wastewater sample requires treatment before being discharged
into the environment to meet the required standards. Further analysis and treatment
processes may be needed to comply with the regulatory guidelines.

Treatment method

To improve the quality of the outlet oily wastewater and meet the specified criteria
set by the Iraqi Government, you can consider implementing a combination of
treatment methods. Here are some treatment methods that can help address the
specific parameters that are not meeting the required standards:

1. Biological Treatment (for BOD and COD reduction): Biological

treatment methods such as activated sludge, trickling filters, or sequencing
batch reactors can be employed to degrade organic matter in the wastewater.
This will help reduce both the BOD and COD levels.

2. Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) (for oil removal): DAF is effective for
removing oil and grease from wastewater. It works by introducing fine air
bubbles that attach to the oil droplets, causing them to float to the surface,
where they can be skimmed off.

3. Aeration (for Dissolved Oxygen improvement): Implementing aeration

processes can help increase the dissolved oxygen levels in the wastewater.
This can be achieved through various methods such as diffused aeration or
mechanical surface aerators.
 4. Chemical Coagulation/Flocculation (for Turbidity reduction): Chemical
coagulants and flocculants can be used to facilitate the removal of suspended
particles, reducing turbidity in the wastewater. After coagulation and
flocculation, the particles can be removed through sedimentation or
filtration.

5. Membrane Filtration (for TDS and Conductivity reduction): Membrane

filtration processes like reverse osmosis or nanofiltration can effectively
remove dissolved solids and reduce conductivity from the wastewater.

6. Ion Exchange (for Nitrate, Sulfate, and Chloride removal): Ion exchange
processes can selectively remove specific ions like nitrate, sulfate, and
chloride from the wastewater, helping to meet the specified criteria.

7. Evaporation (for Salinity reduction): Evaporation techniques can be used

to concentrate the wastewater and remove water content, effectively
reducing salinity.

It's important to note that the treatment methods mentioned above can be applied
individually or in combination, depending on the specific composition and
characteristics of the wastewater. Before implementing any treatment method,
conducting a comprehensive wastewater characterization is crucial to determine
the most suitable treatment approach. Additionally, compliance with local
regulations and environmental standards should be ensured throughout the
treatment process.
Biological Treatment (for BOD and COD reduction

Biological treatment is a commonly used method to reduce BOD (Biochemical

Oxygen Demand) and COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) in wastewater. There are
different variations of biological treatment, but one of the most widely used
methods is the Activated Sludge process. Here's an overview of the Activated
Sludge process along with the necessary units and equipment:

1. Activated Sludge Process: The Activated Sludge process is a biological

treatment method that uses microorganisms to break down organic matter in the
wastewater. It involves the following steps:

a. Aeration Tank: In the aeration tank, the wastewater is mixed with a population
of microorganisms known as "activated sludge." The sludge is responsible for
breaking down the organic pollutants in the wastewater.

b. Aeration System: The aeration system provides oxygen to the microorganisms

in the aeration tank. This is typically achieved using fine bubble diffusers or
mechanical surface aerators. The oxygen allows the microorganisms to carry out
the biological degradation of organic matter, reducing BOD and COD levels.

c. Clarifier (Secondary Settling Tank): After the aeration process, the mixture of
treated wastewater and activated sludge enters the clarifier. Here, the heavier
sludge settles to the bottom, forming a sludge blanket, while the clarified water
overflows at the top.

d. Return Sludge Pump: A return sludge pump is used to recycle a portion of the
settled sludge back to the aeration tank. This process, called sludge recirculation,
maintains a sufficient population of active microorganisms in the aeration tank.
e. Sludge Treatment: The excess sludge that accumulates in the clarifier is
removed and sent for further treatment, such as thickening, dewatering, and
sometimes anaerobic digestion or incineration.

2. Equipment Necessary: To implement the Activated Sludge process for BOD

and COD reduction, the following equipment is necessary:

a. Aeration Tank: A large tank where wastewater and activated sludge are mixed
and aerated.

b. Aeration System: Fine bubble diffusers or mechanical surface aerators to supply

oxygen to the microorganisms.

c. Clarifier (Secondary Settling Tank): A separate tank where the settled sludge is
separated from the treated water.

d. Return Sludge Pump: A pump to recycle a portion of the settled sludge back to
the aeration tank.

e. Sludge Treatment Equipment: Depending on the volume of excess sludge

generated, equipment such as sludge thickeners, dewatering units, and sludge
treatment facilities may be required.

f. Monitoring and Control Systems: Instruments to monitor process parameters like

dissolved oxygen, pH, and sludge levels, as well as control systems to optimize
treatment efficiency.

It's important to design the system appropriately based on the characteristics of the
wastewater and the required treatment goals. Additionally, regular maintenance and
monitoring of the biological treatment system are essential to ensure its
effectiveness and compliance with regulatory standards.
Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) (for oil removal)

Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) is a widely used method for removing oil and
grease from wastewater. It works by introducing fine air bubbles that attach to the
oil droplets, causing them to float to the surface, where they can be skimmed off.
Here's an overview of the DAF process along with the necessary units and
equipment:

1. Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) Process: The DAF process involves the
following steps:

a. Mixing and Coagulation: Before entering the DAF unit, chemicals known as
coagulants are added to the wastewater to promote the formation of larger oil
droplets. The mixing process ensures proper dispersion of the coagulant throughout
the wastewater.

b. Pressurization and Dissolution: The wastewater is then pressurized and

saturated with air to form dissolved air in the water. This is typically achieved
using a specialized pump and air saturation vessel.

c. Release and Flotation: The pressurized water is released into the flotation tank,
where the sudden drop in pressure causes the dissolved air to come out of the
solution in the form of tiny air bubbles. These bubbles attach to the oil droplets,
forming oil-air aggregates that float to the surface of the tank.

d. Skimming: At the surface, the oil-air aggregates form a thick layer, which is
skimmed off and collected into an oil collection trough or chamber.

e. Effluent Outlet: The clarified water, with reduced oil content, exits the DAF
unit through an effluent outlet at the bottom or side of the tank.
2. Equipment Necessary: To implement the Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF)
process for oil removal, the following units and equipment are necessary:

a. Mixing and Coagulation Tank: A tank or chamber where the coagulant is

mixed with the wastewater to promote the formation of larger oil droplets.

b. Air Saturation Vessel: A vessel where the wastewater is pressurized and air is
dissolved into the water to create fine air bubbles.

c. Flotation Tank (DAF Tank): The flotation tank where the pressurized
wastewater is released, and the oil-air aggregates float to the surface.

d. Skimming Mechanism: A skimming mechanism, such as a rotating scraper or a

skimming flight system, to remove the floating oil layer from the surface of the
tank.

e. Oil Collection Trough/Chamber: A trough or chamber to collect the skimmed

oil for further treatment or disposal.

f. Effluent Outlet: An outlet at the bottom or side of the DAF tank to discharge the
clarified water with reduced oil content.

g. Chemical Dosing System: A system for dosing coagulants or flocculants into

the wastewater to aid in the oil removal process.

h. Air Compressor or Pump: An air compressor or pump to supply the

pressurized air to the air saturation vessel.

i. Monitoring and Control Systems: Instruments to monitor process parameters

such as flow rates, pressure, and oil content, as well as control systems to optimize
the DAF process efficiency.
It's important to select appropriate equipment based on the flow rate, oil
concentration, and other specific requirements of the wastewater being treated.
Regular maintenance and monitoring of the DAF system are necessary to ensure
effective oil removal and compliance with regulatory standards.

Treatment steps

To safely discharge treated wastewater into a river, a comprehensive treatment

process is necessary to meet the environmental standards and regulations. The
treatment requirements will depend on the characteristics of the wastewater and the
water quality standards set by the local authorities. Here is a general outline of the
steps involved in treating wastewater before discharging it into a river:

1. Preliminary Treatment: The preliminary treatment involves the removal of

large debris, grit, and other coarse solids from the wastewater. This step typically
includes screening and grit removal to protect downstream equipment from
damage and clogging.

2. Primary Treatment: In the primary treatment, the wastewater undergoes

physical processes such as sedimentation and/or flotation to remove settleable
solids and a significant portion of suspended organic matter. This process helps in
reducing the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Total Suspended Solids
(TSS) levels in the wastewater.

3. Secondary Treatment (Biological Treatment): Biological treatment is essential

for removing dissolved and colloidal organic matter, further reducing BOD and
COD levels. The activated sludge process (as described earlier) is commonly used
for this purpose, but other methods like sequencing batch reactors (SBR), extended
aeration, or attached growth systems can also be employed.
4. Tertiary Treatment (Advanced Treatment): Depending on the specific
discharge requirements and the quality of the receiving river, tertiary treatment
may be necessary. This stage involves advanced treatment processes to further
polish the wastewater. Common tertiary treatment methods include filtration,
chemical coagulation and flocculation, and disinfection (e.g., chlorination, UV
disinfection) to remove remaining contaminants and pathogens.

5. Nutrient Removal (if required): In some cases, nutrient removal may be

necessary to meet strict water quality standards. Nitrogen and phosphorus
compounds can cause water quality issues in receiving waters. Biological nutrient
removal (BNR) or chemical precipitation may be used to achieve the desired
nutrient reduction.

6. Monitoring and Testing: Throughout the treatment process, regular monitoring

and testing of the water quality parameters are essential to ensure the efficiency of
the treatment system and compliance with regulatory standards.

7. Environmental Impact Assessment: Before discharging the treated water into

the river, an environmental impact assessment should be conducted to evaluate the
potential effects on the river ecosystem and surrounding environment.

It is important to note that the specific treatment steps and their level of complexity
will depend on the initial characteristics of the wastewater and the discharge
standards set by the local environmental agency. Proper treatment and monitoring
are crucial to protect the river ecosystem and maintain water quality for both the
environment and downstream users. Always consult with environmental experts
and follow local regulations to ensure compliance with all necessary requirements.
Aeration (for Dissolved Oxygen improvement)

Aeration is a common and effective method for improving the Dissolved Oxygen
(DO) levels in wastewater. The process involves introducing air into the
wastewater to promote the transfer of oxygen from the air to the water. Here's an
overview of aeration for Dissolved Oxygen improvement, along with the unit
selection and necessary equipment:

1. Aeration Process: The aeration process can be achieved through different

methods, including mechanical aeration and diffused aeration:

a. Mechanical Aeration: In mechanical aeration, large mechanical devices, such

as surface aerators or propellers, are used to create turbulence and agitation on the
water surface. This promotes the oxygen transfer from the atmosphere into the
water.

b. Diffused Aeration: Diffused aeration involves introducing fine air bubbles into
the water using diffusers or porous media placed at the bottom of the aeration tank.
The fine bubbles increase the contact surface area between air and water,
enhancing the oxygen transfer efficiency.

2. Unit Selection: The choice of aeration unit will depend on factors such as the
size of the treatment facility, the specific oxygen requirements, and the
characteristics of the wastewater. Common aeration units include:

a. Surface Aerators: Surface aerators are mechanical devices that sit on the water
surface and use rotating propellers or impellers to create turbulence and entrain air
into the water.
b. Submersible Mixers: Submersible mixers are similar to surface aerators but are
installed below the water surface. They create circulation and mixing, promoting
oxygen transfer.

c. Fine Bubble Diffusers: Fine bubble diffusers release small air bubbles at the
bottom of the aeration tank. They provide efficient oxygen transfer due to the
increased bubble surface area.

d. Coarse Bubble Diffusers: Coarse bubble diffusers release larger air bubbles,
suitable for applications where high mixing intensity is required along with
aeration.

e. Jet Aerators: Jet aerators use a combination of water jets and air to enhance
oxygen transfer and mixing.

3. Equipment Necessary: The necessary equipment for aeration will depend on

the selected aeration unit. Generally, the equipment includes:

a. Aeration Units: Surface aerators, submersible mixers, fine bubble diffusers,

coarse bubble diffusers, or jet aerators based on the unit selection.

b. Air Compressor or Blower: A device to supply air to the aeration unit. The
capacity of the compressor or blower should match the oxygen demand of the
wastewater.

c. Air Distribution System: A network of pipes and valves to distribute air from
the compressor or blower to the aeration units.

d. Oxygen Sensors: Sensors to monitor and control the dissolved oxygen levels in
the water.

e. Control System: A control system to adjust the aeration rate based on the
dissolved oxygen levels and other process parameters.
f. Monitoring and Instrumentation: Instruments to measure and monitor various
parameters, such as flow rates, air pressure, and water quality.

Proper design, installation, and operation of the aeration system are essential to
ensure efficient oxygen transfer and to meet the required Dissolved Oxygen levels
in the treated water. Additionally, regular maintenance and monitoring are crucial
to maintain optimal aeration system performance.

CASE:water flow rate is 50 m3/day

To determine the size of the aeration equipment needed for a water flow rate of 50
m3/day, you should consider the oxygen transfer requirements, oxygen demand of
the wastewater, and the efficiency of the aeration unit. One critical parameter to
consider is the Oxygen Transfer Efficiency (OTE), which indicates how effectively
the aeration system transfers oxygen from the air to the water.

OTE is typically expressed as a percentage, and the actual oxygen transfer capacity
(OTC) of the aeration system is calculated by multiplying the OTE by the air flow
rate.

To estimate the required aeration capacity, you need to know the oxygen demand
of the wastewater, which is usually expressed as kg of oxygen per day or per unit
volume of water treated (kg/day or kg/m3/day). The oxygen demand depends on
the characteristics of the wastewater and its BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand)
level.

Without specific information about the BOD level of the wastewater, it's
challenging to give an exact answer. However, I can provide a general guideline for
estimating the aeration capacity based on common assumptions:

Assumptions:
  Assuming a moderate BOD level of 150 mg/L (milligrams per liter) in the
wastewater (for typical municipal wastewater).

 Assuming a typical oxygen demand of 0.2 kg O2/kg BOD removed (this

value can vary based on wastewater characteristics).

Estimation:

1. Calculate the total BOD loading: BOD loading (kg/day) = Flow rate
(m3/day) * BOD concentration (mg/L) * 0.001 (to convert mg/L to kg/m3)

2. Estimate the oxygen demand: Oxygen demand (kg/day) = BOD loading

(kg/day) * 0.2

3. Determine the required oxygen transfer capacity: OTC (kg/day) = Oxygen

demand (kg/day) / OTE (as a decimal, e.g., 0.25 for 25%)

4. Find the required air flow rate: Air flow rate (m3/day) = OTC (kg/day) /
(Oxygen concentration in air - Oxygen concentration in water)

Keep in mind that the actual equipment size and configuration might differ based
on specific wastewater characteristics, treatment goals, and the selected aeration
system. For precise sizing, it is recommended to work with an experienced
wastewater treatment engineer who can perform a detailed analysis and consider
other factors like aeration basin geometry, mixing requirements, and regulatory
compliance.

Preliminary Treatment with unit selection and equipment necessary

Preliminary treatment in wastewater treatment involves the removal of large

debris, grit, and other coarse solids to protect downstream equipment from damage
and clogging. Here's an overview of preliminary treatment, along with unit
selection and necessary equipment:
1. Screening: Screening is the first step in preliminary treatment, and it involves
the removal of large objects and solids from the wastewater. The main purpose of
screening is to protect pumps, valves, and other equipment from damage and to
prevent clogging in downstream treatment processes. There are two main types of
screens:

a. Bar Screens: Bar screens consist of vertical or inclined bars spaced to allow
wastewater to flow through while trapping larger objects and debris. The collected
debris is periodically removed and disposed of.

b. Fine Screens: Fine screens use smaller openings to remove finer solids and
debris from the wastewater. They are particularly useful in areas where smaller
particles are prevalent.

2. Grit Removal: Grit removal is the process of separating and removing

inorganic particles like sand, gravel, and grit that could cause abrasion and damage
to pumps and other mechanical equipment. There are two common methods for
grit removal:

a. Grit Chambers: Grit chambers use a controlled flow velocity to allow grit to
settle, while the lighter organic solids remain in suspension. The settled grit is
collected and removed for disposal.

b. Grit Cyclones: Grit cyclones use centrifugal force to separate grit from the
wastewater. The grit is then collected and removed for disposal.

3. Equipment Necessary: The necessary equipment for preliminary treatment

includes:

a. Bar Screens or Fine Screens: Depending on the type of screening required, bar
screens or fine screens should be installed to capture larger debris and solids.
b. Grit Chambers or Grit Cyclones: Grit removal equipment, such as grit
chambers or grit cyclones, should be used to separate and remove inorganic
particles from the wastewater.

c. Conveyors or Grit Augers: Equipment to transport and remove the collected

screenings and grit from the screening and grit removal units.

d. Wash Press or Compactor (Optional): In some cases, a wash press or

compactor may be used to dewater and compact the collected screenings for easier
handling and disposal.

e. Control System: A control system to automate the operation of the preliminary

treatment equipment and ensure proper functioning.

f. Monitoring and Instrumentation: Instruments to monitor and control flow

rates, levels, and other process parameters to optimize the preliminary treatment
process.

Proper preliminary treatment is crucial for protecting downstream equipment,

ensuring the efficient operation of subsequent treatment stages, and meeting
environmental regulations. The selection of specific equipment will depend on the
wastewater characteristics, flow rates, and the desired level of preliminary
treatment efficiency. Consulting with wastewater treatment experts is
recommended to design a preliminary treatment system tailored to your specific
needs.