|
Waterloo BiofilterTM
Septic tank effluent pumped to the Waterloo BiofilterTM is distributed through 1" PVC SCH 40 pipes or equivalent flexible hose to a PVC manifold with downward facing helical nozzles which spray evenly over a wide area. larger systems have larger distribution pipes. Pressures of 10 - 15 psi are generated at the nozzle head.
The sprayed watewater percolates slowly down through the absorbent foam cube media. The media comes as 2-3" cubes and is piled randmony in custom sized baskets. Pumping of the wastewater in small volumes is important to treatment. The foam cubes should fill with wastewater but not overflow;otherwise wastewater will flow around the cubes, not through them, and short-circuit down to the bottom with poor treatment. Biomat discoloration typically occurs in the upper 2 feet of the filter media where most of the solids and organic matter are degraded with the lower serction of the filter attenuating bacteria and ammonium. The foam baskets are contained in pre-cast concrete tanks for below ground units and in insulated cedar sheds for above ground applications.
Residential units (concrete tanks and cedar sheds) are delivered onsite preassembled. In larger systems, the foam is free filled in the Waterloo Biofilter TM tank and is constructed onsite. Vents in the tank allow for fresh air to enter which is circulated using a fan. This improves aerobic treatment and facilitates nitrification. | 
