Introduction
Mall De Goa, one of the largest shopping destinations in North Goa, faced significant challenges with its existing sewage treatment plant (STP). The old system was underperforming, failing to meet the necessary treated water quality standards required for reuse in the mall’s extensive landscaping. To resolve these issues, Mall De Goa partnered with Sustainable Biosolutions Pvt. Ltd. (SUSBIO) to install a new SBR (Sequencing Batch Reactor) STP. This case study details the problem, the solution provided by SUSBIO, the implementation process, and the results achieved.
Problem
The existing STP at Mall De Goa was not delivering the required quality of treated water, leading to several operational challenges:
- Substandard Treated Water Quality: The old sewage treatment plant could not produce water that met the standards necessary for reuse in landscaping, impacting the mall’s sustainability initiatives.
- Operational Disruptions: Frequent breakdowns and inefficiencies in the old STP caused disruptions, leading to higher operational costs and maintenance issues.
- Environmental Concerns: Inadequate sewage treatment posed potential environmental risks, which could harm the local ecosystem and tarnish the mall’s reputation.
Solution
To address these challenges, SUSBIO proposed the installation of an advanced SBR STP. This modified activated sludge process sewage treatment plant was designed to deliver high-quality treated water while enhancing operational efficiency.
Key Features of SUSBIO SBR STP
- Modified Activated Sludge Process: Provides efficient biological treatment, ensuring high standards of treated water quality.
- Enhanced Water Quality: Produces treated water suitable for reuse in landscaping and other non-potable applications within the mall premises.
- Automated Operation: Minimizes the need for manual intervention, reducing operational costs and improving system reliability.
- Space-Efficient Design: The compact and efficient design integrates seamlessly into the mall’s infrastructure, maximizing available space.
Implementation
Assessment and Planning
SUSBIO conducted a thorough assessment of the mall’s wastewater treatment needs, considering the shortcomings of the old STP. A comprehensive plan was developed to ensure a smooth transition to the new SBR sewage treatment plant.
Installation
The installation process included:
- Site Preparation: Preparing the site for the new SBR STP, including the careful decommissioning of the old sewage treatment plant.
- System Installation: Setting up the SBR system, ensuring all components were correctly installed and integrated with the mall’s existing infrastructure.
- Testing and Commissioning: Conducting rigorous tests to ensure the system’s performance, followed by commissioning and staff training to manage the new sewage treatment plant effectively.
Training and Support
SUSBIO provided extensive training for the mall’s maintenance team, ensuring they were well-equipped to operate the new sewage treatment plant. SUSBIO also established ongoing support and maintenance services to ensure the STP’s long-term success.
STP Installation Process Overview
Installing a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) requires careful planning and execution to ensure optimal performance and compliance with environmental standards. Here’s a streamlined version of the STP installation process:
1. Initial Assessment
The process begins with a thorough site inspection to evaluate water sources, wastewater load, space, and local regulations.
2. Design and Engineering
Based on the assessment, engineers design the STP system, choosing the appropriate treatment methods and creating detailed plans.
3. Site Preparation
The site is cleared, the foundation is laid, and utilities are installed for the STP components.
4. STP Equipment Installation
Components like tanks, pumps, and aerators are installed as per the design.
5. Testing and Calibration
After installation, the system is tested for functionality, including flow rate, treatment efficiency, and equipment calibration.
6. Post-Installation and Commissioning
A final inspection ensures the system meets regulations, followed by handover, training, and system activation.
STP Installation Timeline
- Initial Assessment & Design: 2-4 weeks
- Site Preparation & Foundation: 3-6 weeks
- Equipment Installation: 4-8 weeks
- Testing & Calibration: 1-2 weeks
- Commissioning: 1 week
Total Time: 2-3 months
Challenges in STP Installation
- Space Constraints: Choose compact or modular systems for limited space.
- Local Regulations: Work closely with local authorities to ensure compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Implement a proper sludge management plan.
- Environmental Impact: Conduct an environmental impact assessment before installation.
Efficient STP installation requires a clear understanding of the process, timeline, and potential challenges. By planning for space, regulations, waste disposal, and environmental concerns, installations can be smooth and successful, meeting both operational and environmental needs.
Results
The installation of the SUSBIO SBR STP at Mall De Goa resulted in significant improvements in the mall’s sewage treatment and disposal processes:
Superior Treated Water Quality
The SBR STP consistently produces high-quality treated water, meeting all regulatory standards and suitable for reuse in the mall’s landscaping. This has enhanced the mall’s sustainability efforts and reduced its environmental footprint.
Operational Efficiency
The automated SBR sewage treatment plant has significantly reduced the need for manual intervention, resulting in fewer operational disruptions and lower costs. The system’s reliability has ensured smooth and efficient wastewater management.
Cost Savings
By improving operational efficiency and reducing maintenance requirements, the SBR STP has delivered substantial cost savings for Mall De Goa. The high-quality treated water has also decreased the mall’s reliance on fresh water, further lowering costs.
Environmental Impact
The reuse of treated water in landscaping has significantly reduced the mall’s water consumption, contributing to environmental sustainability. The efficient sewage treatment process has also minimized the discharge of pollutants, protecting the local environment.
SBR vs MBR and MBBR: Quick Comparison
When selecting a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) for commercial properties like malls, hotels, or resorts, it’s essential to understand the differences between SBR (Sequence Batch Reactor), MBR (Membrane Bioreactor), and MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor) systems.
1. SBR (Sequence Batch Reactor)
Benefits:
- Cost-effective and ideal for smaller to medium-scale projects like malls and hotels.
- Handles fluctuating wastewater loads effectively, perfect for spaces with varying occupancy and usage.
- Simple operation and space-efficient, requiring minimal maintenance.
Limitations:
- Operates in batch mode, which may not be suitable for high, continuous wastewater flows.
2. MBR (Membrane Bioreactor)
Benefits:
- High-quality effluent suitable for strict discharge standards.
- Continuous operation for high-flow needs, ideal for large installations.
- Compact size for space-limited areas.
Limitations:
- Higher initial cost and complex maintenance due to membrane filtration.
- Energy-intensive.
3. MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor)
Benefits:
- Scalable for both small and large projects.
- Efficient wastewater treatment with lower operational costs than MBR.
Limitations:
- Limited filtration compared to MBR, may not meet strict standards.
- Requires more space than SBR.
SBR for High Fluctuations in Wastewater Load
SBR excels at handling fluctuations in wastewater load, making it ideal for malls, hotels, and resorts where occupancy and usage can vary greatly. It adjusts batch cycles to meet fluctuating wastewater demands without compromising treatment efficiency, ensuring cost-effective, reliable wastewater treatment.
Which System is Right for You?
- SBR is perfect for smaller to medium-scale projects with fluctuating wastewater needs.
- MBR is best for large installations requiring continuous treatment and high-quality effluent.
- MBBR is a scalable solution for medium to large systems with lower operational costs.
Choose SBR if you need cost-efficiency and flexibility for commercial properties with varying wastewater loads.
Conclusion
The installation of the SUSBIO SBR STP at Mall De Goa has revolutionized the mall’s wastewater management, addressing all the issues associated with the old sewage treatment plant. The new system delivers high-quality treated water, operational efficiency, and cost savings, while supporting the mall’s commitment to sustainability.
SUSBIO’s innovative approach to sewage treatment has ensured that Mall De Goa can maintain its status as a premier shopping destination, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly environment for its patrons. By choosing SUSBIO’s advanced sewage treatment plant technology, Mall De Goa has set a new standard for sustainable wastewater management in the retail industry.
