Challenges in Upgrading a Conventional Activated Sludge Plant in Maryland to a Membrane Bio Reactor (MBR) Facility

This paper includes the unique challenges and creative solutions for doubling the hydraulic capacity of a conventional activated sludge plant by retrofitting a four stage membrane bioreactor process within the existing footprint. Moreover, to meet future more stringent nutrient removal requirements to protect the Chesapeake Bay, the new facility can produce an effluent water quality of Total Nitrogen of 3.0 mg/L and Total Phosphorus of 0.3 mg/L. Other challenges included evenly distributing flows despite uneven configurations of the two parallel trains, the high concentrations of fiber produced by raw sewage grinder pumps, and energy efficiency considerations.