Biological Treatment Plant for Nitrogen Removal

Aerofloat was engaged to address contaminated stormwater and groundwater at a longstanding industrial site in Queensland. The site had ceased its manufacturing operations, which previously allowed onsite reuse of contaminated water. With strict environmental regulations and sustainability commitments in place, the client required a robust solution to treat the water onsite to ensure compliant discharge, supporting a green future for the site. Aerofloat’s expertise in custom-designed, proprietary wastewater treatment technologies made it the ideal partner for this critical environmental challenge.

Aerofloat designed and constructed a state-of-the-art biological treatment facility that uses a proprietary hybrid nitrification and denitrification process with SBR clarification to treat contaminated water onsite. The solution repurposed two existing stormwater lagoons and included the construction of three new tanks, creating a comprehensive biological treatment system.

The treatment process involves three key biological reactors: a nitrifying reactor, where ammonia nitrogen is converted into nitrate; an anoxic reactor, which facilitates denitrification by converting nitrate to nitrogen gas; and a sequence batch reactor (AeroSBR) that provides additional nitrification and denitrification, while also clarifying and decanting treated effluent free of solids. This staged biological process effectively removes nitrogen and other trace contaminants from the wastewater.

Following biological treatment, a multi-media filtration system further clarifies the effluent to ensure consistently low levels of suspended solids before discharge. To manage biosolids generated during the process, Aerofloat installed a belt press coupled with a robust chemical dosing system to condition the solids, facilitating efficient dewatering and safe disposal offsite.

The plant was designed to handle up to 1.1 million litres of wastewater per day, containing varying concentrations of nitrogen. The project’s success was enhanced by early coordination with subcontractors and procurement partners, as well as valuable input from experienced client site personnel, allowing the facility to be commissioned within six months of breaking ground.

Aerofloat continues to support the facility through its comprehensive Aftercare program, which includes a full-time site operator, sampling, regular servicing, remote monitoring and ongoing supply of treatment chemicals and spare parts. This ensures the plant remains fully optimised and compliant, with minimal disruption to operations. Aerofloat’s long-term commitment to site performance provides peace of mind and consistent treatment outcomes for the client.

Aerofloat’s treatment solution enabled the client to consistently meet stringent environmental discharge limits, ensuring long-term compliance and protecting surrounding waterways. The system’s biological process effectively removes nitrogen and trace contaminants, aligning with the client’s sustainability goals.

The automated process control and remote monitoring features enhanced reliability and enabled proactive maintenance, reducing operator workload and minimising downtime.

Complementing the system’s automation, Aerofloat’s Aftercare program provides additional assurance through expert support, including servicing, parts supply, and operational oversight. This combined approach ensures the plant continues to perform efficiently while supporting the client’s commitment to long-term environmental sustainability.