Effluent Solid Separation

Removing solids from the effluent is an option to allow more effective downstream effluent management and is a requirement for some farms. There are a variety of benefits and considerations when deciding on solid separation and this will be different for every effluent system. Generally those farms that have a higher input of feed and / or off pasture facilities (i.e. feed pads) present  a greater need for solid separation. The common solid separation systems on farm are what we call ‘primary’ solid separation. These systems are designed to remove the majority of particles over 1mm in size. Solid particles less than 1mm in size, typically referred to as fine suspended solids, require secondary solid separation to remove them. These finer solids would normally only be removed for a higher green water quality or nutrient removal process.

 

Some of the benefits of solid separation include:

 

• Minimising blockages in pipes & irrigation equipment

• Green water recycling (washdown)

• Easier storage management – solids settling & crusting

• Enhancing storage capability

• Managing feed pad effluent

• Low application rate irrigation

• Reduce blinding of pasture/soil

• More efficient pumping

• Nutrient load management

 

SOLUTION OPTIONS:  – Mechanical Solid Separators, Passive Screen Solid Separators, Drying Beds, Weeping Walls, Pond Systems, Sediment Traps