- The technology is expected to allow the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) to enhance odour control, boost energy recovery, and reduce the plant’s environmental footprint.
WD News: The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and Cambi have announced an agreement for the installation of three thermal hydrolysis systems as part of the Biosolids Digester Facilities Project at the Southeast Treatment Plant in San Francisco.
The SFPUC is investing over USD 3 billion to upgrade and modernise the Southeast Treatment Plant – the city’s largest wastewater treatment facility – as part of a more extensive citywide Sewer System Improvement Program.
As per Cambi’s official statement, the Biosolids Digester Facilities Project is an essential component of the larger Southeast Treatment Plant upgrade and will replace and relocate the existing, outdated solids treatment facilities with more reliable, efficient, and modern technologies and facilities. The new digesters will use a state-of-the-art sludge treatment line using the company’s thermal hydrolysis systems.
“We are making generational investments at the Southeast Treatment Plant, our largest wastewater treatment facility,” said Dennis Herrera, General Manager of SFPUC. “We took great care in designing it to be a modern and efficient resource-recovery centre, improving operations and the well-being of employees and nearby residents.”
The use of thermal hydrolysis technology will allow SFPUC to produce higher quality ‘Class A’ biosolids. The nutrient-rich wastewater byproduct, known as ‘biosolids’, is used as a high-quality fertiliser. The higher classification will expand the byproduct’s beneficial uses.
In addition, Cambi technology allows SFPUC to enhance odour control and boost biogas output and energy recovery. Once operational, the new facilities will reduce the carbon and environmental footprint associated with biosolids management.
“Thermal hydrolysis provides greater security as biosolids regulations become increasingly stringent and restrictive,” said Eirik Fadnes, Cambi CEO.
The project is being carried out through a joint venture of MWH Constructors and Webcor Builders.
File photo: For illustration purpose only.
Source & Image Courtesy: Cambi
