Draft Tube Channel Approach to Poultry Processing Wastewater Treatment

Authors:

J. L. Gruette - Manager

G. M. Westphal - Process Design Engineer

Mixing Equipment Co., Inc. 

The document details the design and performance of a poultry processing wastewater treatment system utilizing a draft tube channel oxidation ditch with LIGHTNIN draft tube aerators. It highlights the system’s ability to achieve efficient BOD removal, nitrification, and sludge management while meeting regulatory effluent discharge limits. The case study demonstrates how this cost-effective and reliable design addresses industrial wastewater challenges in the poultry industry.

Key Learnings

• Draft tube channel oxidation ditches provide effective treatment for poultry processing wastewater.
• LIGHTNIN draft tube aerators enhance oxygen transfer and mixing efficiency in biological treatment.
• The system successfully achieves BOD removal, nitrification, and denitrification to meet discharge regulations.
• Integral clarifiers and sludge recirculation improve process stability and effluent quality.
• Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) is an effective pretreatment step for solids removal.
• Proper system start-up and operation ensure long-term performance and reliability.
• Energy-efficient aeration design reduces operational costs compared to conventional systems.
• The case study demonstrates how tailored designs can address unique wastewater challenges in the poultry industry.