HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993 03 19 - TrihalomethaneCity of Sebastian
POST OFFICE BOX 780127 o SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978
TELEPHONE (407) 589-5330 o FAX (407) 589-5570
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE March 19, 1993
FROM : Richard B. Votapka, Utilities Director
TO : Trihalomethane File
SUBJECT : Meeting with Glenn Schuessler, Asst. Director,
Indian River County Environmental Health Dept.
Glenn told me that in his experience with trihalomethane
testing (THM), he found that the longer the water remains in the
distribution system, the higher the THM's seem to be. He plotted
this on a map of the GDU system where he had taken tests.
xv
Genual Development Utilities, Inc.
RECEIVED
AUG J 161993
(-T-Ooc
ITY CLERK:S
OFFICE
AN ATLANTIC GULF COMMUNITY CORPORATION SUBSIDIARY
2601 SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE
MIAMI, FL 33133-5461
(305) 859-4331
Ms. Kathryn M. O'Halloran
Acting City Manager
City of Sebastian
1225 Main Street
Sebastian, Florida 32958
Re: Trihalomethanes (THMs)
Dear Ms. O'Halloran:
Gr7U
Charles E. Fancher, Jr.
PRESIDENT
August 13, 1993
GDU makes the following proposals to the City of Sebastian to establish a framework for
addressing issues raised about allegations concerning the level of trihalomethanes CHWs)
in its treated water.
As the City staff is aware, GDU's water system in the City of Sebastian is not subject to
any regulatory requirement regarding the level of THMs in its treated water and GDU is
not currently required to take any actions concerning such levels. However, we understand
that there is nevertheless a public perception of a concern about this issue.
Consistent with our prior conversations with the City staff, the parties acknowledge that
GDU is entitled to recover from the customers of its Sebastian Highlands system all costs
incurred by GDU in addressing the THM issue. These include, but are not limited to, the
cost of developing a plan for addressing the issue, any increased operating expenses incurred
to address the issue, any capital expenditures incurred to address the issue, and a reasonable
return on any required investment by GDU. The initial concept is that these costs will be
recovered over a reasonable period of time in the form of a monthly "THM surcharge" on
customers' bills.
Based on these understandings, GDU is willing to work with the City to address these
concerns in the following manner:
1) Within 15 days after a final order is entered on GDU's pending application
for a rate increase, the City will appoint two representatives to work with GDU on
addressing the THM concerns.
'IN --
Kathryn M. O'Halloran
August 13, 1993
Page 2
2) Within 30 days after this proposal has been formally accepted by the City,
GDU will meet with the designated representatives of the City to establish the details of a
method for GDU to recover the costs of addressing the THM concerns over a reasonable
recovery period. As part of this step, the City will authorize GDU to implement a
surcharge or other mechanism to recover the project costs involved in Step 3 over a
reasonable period of time.
3) Within 45 days after the City has authorized GDU to implement such a cost
recovery mechanism, GDU will deliver an outline of a report prepared on possible methods
of addressing THM levels in its Sebastian Highlands system to the City's designated
representatives.
4) Within approximately 15 days after the delivery of that outline, GDU will
meet with the City's representatives to discuss the outline and to attempt to identify the next
step or steps to be taken in addressing the issue and the associated costs of such step or
steps.
5) GDU will have no obligation to proceed beyond Step 2 until the City has
taken official action to approve a surcharge mechanism and initial rates that will enable
GDU to recover from its customers over a reasonable recovery period the costs incurred to
that date. Similarly, GDU will have no obligation to proceed with any additional step
identified as a result of Step 4 unless and until adequate provision has been made by the
City for GDU's recovery of the cost of such step from its customers over a reasonable
recovery period.
GDU is looking forward to a cooperative effort with the City to address the public
perception of a concern about THM levels in a way that is cost effective to its customers.
Sincerely,
Ches E. Fancher, Jr.
CEF:gi
cc: Marilyn Swichkow, Finance Director
Richard Votapka, Utilities Director
Charles Ian Nash, City Attorney
CITY OF SEBASTIAN
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
DATE: July 21, 1993 TIME: 10:05 A.M.
[ ] CONFERENCE WITH
[x] TELEPHONE CONFERENCE WITH Scott Wheeler, 190 Empress Avenue,
Sebastian
SUBJECT: GDU Rate Increase
RESUME OF CONVERSATION: Scott called me to ask how he could
register a complaint in regard to the exorbitant rate increase
request by GDU. I told him that he'll have the opportunity to sign
up to speak at the public hearing held on August 18, 1993. I told
him that I could place him in contact with the City Clerk's office
and possibly they could pre -register him to speak at the hearing.
Scott told me that he doesn't drink the water ever since he read
about the carcinogens in it. I explained to him that -his chances
of getting cancer from THM's were 1 in 10,000 people if he drank 2
liters of water every day for the next 70 years. He also told me
that his neighbors won't drink the water because of carcinogens,
even though they smoke.
He told me that he had done some checking and GDU water rates were
the highest in Florida. I told him that Indian River County's
rates were higher, and asked Scott if he had read the article in
the Press Journal today. He said he hadn't. I referred him to the
article which had rate comparisons of GDU now and in the future,
and Indian River County.
He mentioned that he had to pay for flood insurance on his lot and
that his lot did not f lood out during the March 14 and March 21 100
Year rainstorms. I told him that there was a waiver or exemption
form one could obtain and gave him Nancy Errett and Michelle
Gentile's phone number at the County Administration Building.
Nancy is at the Emergency Management Dept. and Michelle is in
Engineering.
He thanked me and said he'Al wait until the 18th of August.
ORIGINATED BY:
z FILE 1+1WOVES
R
CITY OF SEBASTIAN
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
DATE: July 22, 1993 TIME: 10:00 a.m.
[x] CONFERENCE WITH Mr. and Mrs. Newton Young from Miami, FL
[ ] TELEPHONE CONFERENCE WITH
SUBJECT: THM's and Utility Rates re: The GDU System
RESUME OF CONVERSATION: Mr. Young and his wife came into my
office. They said they were from Miami and were interested in
buying an existing house located on Del Monte Road east of East
Street. They said they were concerned about two things regarding
the City water: 1) Is the drinking water safe to drink because of
the THM's in it? 2) What about the utility rates?
I explained to them that General Development Corporation serves
that particular area with water, not the City. GDU has a franchise
from the City to serve customers in that area with potable water.
I then explained to them about trihalomethanes (THM's). I told the
Newton's that THM's consist of four organic compounds. The limit
set by the EPA is 100 ppb. However, I informed them that through
my research I found that the reason EPA doesn't require GDU to
control THM's is because their system serves only 1,200 people.
Only systems with more than 10,000 people are required to provide
THM control. The risk factor is such that if a person drank 2
liters of water per day for 365 days for the next 70 years, that
person would have a 1 in 10,000 chance in getting cancer. I told
them that they would have a better chance of being struck by
lightning (1 in 9,100) in the State of Florida. I told them that
I was on the GDU system and drink the water. I think it is good
water. I retrieved the THM file and let them look at the 1992
results. The 1993 results were not in the file for some reason.
Basically, I told them that there was not much difference between
the this year's and last year's test results.
They then asked me about utility rates, specifically,will they go
UP? I told them that they will. I informed the Youngs that GDU
had filed for a rate increase. They wanted to know if the rates
would double. I told them that my bill for 7,000 gallons on the
GDU proposed rates would jump from $49.17 to $103.59. This
Page 2 of 2
July 22, 1993 Conference with Mr. & Mrs. Young
proposed increase was more than double. I showed Mr. Young my bill
where I had calculated the proposed GDU rate increase and the
current County billing. It showed a 111% increase. I did tell
them that the City has scheduled a public hearing in regard to the
GDU rate increase on August 18, 1993. I told the Youngs that our
financial consultant, Rachlin & Cohen, was reviewing the GDU rate
increase. According to our Finance Department, GDU would not be
able to justify the type of increase they are seeking. Most
probably, an increase in rates would be granted buy certainly not
as much when compared with the increase GDU has proposed.
I told them that the City is trying to buy the GDU system, but we
cannot conclude the agreement because GDU wants one half million
dollars more. If the City had bought the GDU system at our
offering price, our rates would have been lower than Indian River
County's rates. However, the City's rates would be higher than the
current GDU rates.
The Young's thanked me and left about 10:30 a.m.
ORIGINATED BY: � /'•
COPY T0:
1174(*11-9�ltd A;C�
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: July 1, 1993
FROM: Richard Votapka, Utilities Director
TO: Trihalomethane (THM) File
SUBJECT: New EPA Guidelines for the THM Maximum Contaminant Level
(MCL)
As instructed by EPA on March 16, 1993, I dutifully called EPA on
June 1, 1993 to ask about the new EPA guidelines for the THM
maximum contaminant level and effective date for mandatory
requirement for THM control for all systems. I was told that the
guidelines were delayed until December 1993. I am to call 1-800-
426-4791 the EPA Drinking Water Hotline on December 30, 1993 for
further information. EPA feels that the guidelines will be
finalized by this date. Also, the guidelines will not only involve
THM's but other DBP's (Disinfection By Products) as well.
CITY OF SEBASTIAN
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
DATE: March 16, 1993 TIME: 4:30 PM
[ ] CONFERENCE WITH:
[ X ----I TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH: EPA Drying Water Hotline
SUBJECT: Tri -amines
RESUME OF CONVERSATION:
I called the EPA Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791). I asked
if EPA had any practical consumption comparison as to equating how
much water would an individual have to drink with a certain level
of THM' s in it to cause cancer. I was told that only the numerical
thresholds are the acceptable guidelines now. EPA does not have
any comparison to the 100 UG/L (micrograms per liter) for total
trihalomethanes.
I was also told to call back in the beginning of June, 1993. By
then the proposed rule changes for THM' s will be established by EPA.
ORIGINATED BY: f IS. V vie
COPY TO
T
RESEARCH &TECHNOLOGY
Evaluating Alternative
Disinfectants for THM
Control in Small Systems
Anthony G. Myers
A pilot -plant study was conducted at two water utilities to evaluate alternative disinfectants—
ozone, hydrogen peroxide, chlorine dioxide, chloramines, and potassium permanganate—for
trihalomethane (THM) control and to determine the impact of their use on small water
systems. Air stripping and activated carbon were also evaluated. Combinations of alternative
disinfectants reduced THMs to a range of levels from approximately 160.ugA using chlorine
to 80 pg/L (chlorine-monochloramine) or <54A (ozone-monochloramine). The costs of
incorporating various process modifications into small water systems were estimated.
Many cities are assessing their ability
to meet an anticipated lower maximum
contaminant level (MCL) for trihalo-
methanes (THMs). Others are motivated
by professional standards or consumer
pressure to provide water with the lowest
practical THM concentrations as a result
of concerns about possible health effects.
When techniques for lowering THMs
are being evaluated, other water quality
concerns such as adequate disinfection
and lower lead levels must also be
considered. This article presents the
results of a pilot -plant study conducted
to determine THM reduction options for
two small (2-4 mgd) water utilities.
The cities of Macon and Moberly, Mo.,
obtain their water supply from surface -
water reservoirs. The conventional pro-
cess flow schemes for their treatment
plants are shown in Figures 1 and 2.
Raw water characteristics are summa-
rized in Table 1. The practice of chlo-
rinating raw water at these plants re-
sulted in THM concentrations in the
distribution system much greater than
the current MCL of 100 jug/L (>200
µg/L), but both utilities have taken steps
to reduce THM levels in their drinking
water. Changing the point of chlorina-
tion, adding potassium permanganate to
the raw water, and optimizing the
coagulation process for THM precursor
removal produce drinking water that
meets the current THM standard. Dis-
tribution system THM concentrations
were reduced by >50 percent using these
techniques. Similar THM precursor
removals with coagulation have been
JUNE 1990
observed elsewhere.' However, if the
THM standard was lowered to <50 µg/L
or a water utility set a lower water
quality goal, the current THM control
program would not consistently produce
water that would be in compliance.
A pilot -plant testing program was
conducted to evaluate additional means
of THM reduction. The program was
designed to screen a variety of treatment
alternatives in a relatively short time.
Optimization of each alternative was
not attempted; instead, the relative
effectiveness and cost of each treatment
were determined to help water utilities
producing 2-4 mgd anticipate require-
ments to meet a range of potential THM
standards.
Conducting the study before new
regulations are in place has several
advantages. Water treatment processes
such as granular activated carbon (GAC)
adsorption, ozonation, and monochlor-
amine require a relatively long period of
time for evaluation of their effectiveness
and impact on the water system. The
current compliance schedule for THMs
may not allow adequate time for testing
and implementation of a treatment
alternative if studies are delayed. In
addition, cost and performance data from
the pilot studies can be considered by
regulatory agencies when they are de-
veloping regulations.
The pilot study evaluated various
combinations of ozone (O�, hydrogen
peroxide (H2O2), monochloramine
(NH2C1), chlorine (C12), potassium per-
manganate (KMnO4), and chlorine diox-
ide (C1O2) for their effectiveness in
reducing THMs when integrated into
the existing treatment processes. The
effectiveness of GAC and powdered
activated carbon (PAC) in the removal of
THMs and THM precursors was also
Extended tests are recommended before a
new treatment method is implemented.
evaluated. Equipment requirements and
cost estimates were prepared for the
treatment alternatives investigated.
Methods and materials
Pilot plant. Two-week pilot -plant
studies were conducted at the Macon
water treatment plant (plant 1) and the
Moberly water treatment plant (plant 2)
in August and September 1988. The
pilot -plant processes are shown in Figure
3. The basic components and design
criteria are listed in Table 2.
The mobile pilot plant is housed in an
8- x 34 -ft (2.4- x 10.4-m) trailer. Water
from the treatment plant's raw -water
supply was piped to the pilot plant's
ozone contact chamber where it flowed
by gravity through the static mixer,
flocculation basins, primary settling
basin, and into the secondary settling
basin. Two peristaltic pumps in parallel
transferred water from the secondary
settling basin into dual -media (plant 1)
or sand (plant 2) filters and GAC filters.
The final'disinfectant was added to the
GAC effluent to match the disinfectant
residual in the dual -media or sand filter
effluent.
Filter effluent turbidity was monitored
by a turbidimeter.* Both filter effluent
turbidity and head loss data were sent to
a computer for automatic collection.
The hydraulic characteristics of some
processes in the pilot plant were similar
to those of the full-scale plants at design
flow rate. However, mixing, flocculation,
and settling could not be matched exactly
because of physical constraints in the
pilot plant. Water plant process infor-
mation is shown in Table 3. Pilot -plant
settled -water quality from each stage
was similar to that of the full-scale
treatment plants.
Chemical addition. All chemicals except
,03 were fed in liquid form through
peristaltic or diaphragm metering
pumps. Chemical dosages (Table 4) were -
adjusted by varying the pump speed or
dilution of chemical stock solutions. All
dosages were set so that adequate disin-
fectant concentration and contact time
(CT), as defined by the Surface Water
Treatment Rule, would be achieved.
Liquid alum was diluted from 44 per-
cent to approximately 1 percent solution.
Alum was added to the raw water for
particle coagulation and THM precursor
removal. The dosage matched that re-
quired in the full-scale plant and was
kept constant throughout each treatment
alternative.
Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was added
to the primary basin effluent to adjust
the pH. The finished -water pH was 8.0
in plant 1 and 7.5 in plant 2. The pilot -
plant pH was similar to that required in
the full-scale plant to produce stable,
noncorrosive water. The finished -water
*Ratio X/R, Hach Co., Loveland, Colo.
second upttow
Polalum CIMIRer (stebU Wlo (PH �usttn em
Kmno cottectlon
sump Cls I
Raw- un
water pumps First upnow
resereotr etuffler with
mixlna wen
Figure 1. Process schematic for plant 1
TABLE 1
Characteristics of raw water
e
a.a,w.n
� storeae
'Anthrectte, sHlalf-
arJce
sand Pumps
Parameter
Plant 1
Plant 2
Total hardness -mg as CaCO3/L
95-100
120-130
Total alkalinity-mgas CaCO3/L
80-90
110-120
pH
8.0-8.2
7.6-7.8
Temperature -°C
25
28
Turbidity-ntu
10-12
2-4
254 -nm UV absorbance
0.11-0.13
0.11-0.13
TABLE 2
Characteristics of pilot plant
Process
Flow Rate
gpm
Contact Time
mitt
Hydraulic Loading
Rate
gpm/sq ft (m/min)
Ozonation
1
10
5(13.1)
Static mixing
1
2s
2
Flocculation
1
44
2
Primary settling*
1
49
0.8 (2.3)
Secondary settling
1
500
U.08 (0.2)
Filtrationt
0.15
11
1.7 (3.9)
GAC filtration$
1 0.15
13
1.7 (3.9)
*36 in. of Calgon F300,.3 in. of gravel
tLamella plate settler
$Plant 1 used 30 in. of 0.45 -mm sand and 4 in. of gravel; plant 2 used 12 in. of 0.8 -mm anthracite, 12
in. of 0.4 -mm sand, and 3 in. of gravel.
TABLE 3
Characteristics of water treatment plants at design flow rate
Characteristic
Plant 1
Plant 2
Design flow rate-mgd (m3/min)
4.3 (11.3)
5(13.1)
Rapid mix time -min
2
Flocculation time -h
2
2
Primary settling detention time -h
3.5
4.5
Secondary settling detention time -h
3.5
4.5
Filtration gpm/sq ft (m/min)
1.9 (4.3)
2.0 (4.6)
Clearwell detention time -h
3
4
78 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
Alum
Polymer
Ftoccutatbn
Rapid basin 1
KMtn04 mix 1
Cpumps
Sugar Creak I.ake
Lime Cl2 F
seating
babn 2 Filters
Settling
basin 1
Floxulatlar
Rapid burin 2
mix 2
Cl,
Ctear-
Wet well well
Iigh-serrbce
I
umps
Distribution
system
Figure 2. Process schematic for plant 2
OAC
Figure 3. Pilot -plant processes filtration
150
120
Ia
A 90
X
i;
60
G2 clog KUnOrPAC 03 O3-H2O2
Raw -Water Disinfectant
Figure 4. Terminal THM results for plant 1
pH was kept relatively constant for each
treatment alternative and was measured
with a pH meter.*
The source of C12 was bleach. In alter-
natives that used free C12, the C12 dosage
produced a 2-3-mg/L residual in the
filtered water; this was consistent with
full-scale plant operation. The applied
C12 dose was 3-10 mg/L and varied with
the treatment alternative and the loca-
tion of C12 addition.
Solid ammonium chloride was used as
the source of ammonia. Ammonia dosage
was based on a weight ratio of C12 to
ammonia -N of approximately 3:1 to
produce NH2C1.
C102 was prepared from a stabilized
C102 solutionj hydrochloric acid, and
bleach. It was added as liquid at approx-
imately 600 mg/L stock. Applied C102
doses were limited to 1.5 mg/L to mini-
mize concentrations of C102 and by-
products in the finished water.
03 was generated in the pilot trailer
and added through a porous diffuser
stone to the bottom of a cylindrical
contact column. Raw water was fed to
the top of the column and flowed counter-
current to the 03 for efficient mixing and
contact. The 03 concentration in the air
was approximately 1 percent. The trans-
ferred 03 dose of 2 mg/L was based on
providing CT values for adequate disin-
fection. Ozone transfer efficiency was
approximately 70 percent. Optimization
of the 03 dosage for enhanced coagulation
was beyond the scope of the project.
H2O2 dosage was based on a weight
ratio of H2O2 to 03 of 0.5:1. The H2O2
solution was injected into the raw -water
line a few feet upstream of the 03 con-
tactor. H2O2 solution was stored in an
opaque container to reduce degradation.
KMn04 was not added to the plant
raw -water line when other disinfectants
were being tested but was added when
pilot tests required it. The 2-mg/L dose
was based on laboratory KMnO4-demand
tests and plant operation experience.
PAC$ was added as a slurry at 0.7
percent solution. The 20-mg/L dose was
based on previous jar tests for 254 -nm
UV absorbance reduction and practical
limits for operational costs.
Sampling and analysis. The main pa-
rameter for determining the effectiveness
of a treatment alternative was three-day
terminal THM (term -TW. Filter and
GAC effluent samples from each treat-
ment alternative were collected in glass
bottles with PTFE seals, stored in the
dark, and held in contact with the final
disinfectant for three days at 25°C.
Sample pH was 8.0 at plant 1 and 7.5 at
plant 2, which matched actual plant
conditions. System detention time was
estimated at three days based on plant
operational data. After three days, so -
*Model 44700. Hach Co., Loveland, Colo.
tlnternational Dioxide Inc., Clark, NJ.
$WPL, Calgon Corp., Pittsburgh, Pa.
JUNE 1990 ANTHONY G. MYERS 79
dium thiosulfate was added to each
sample.
Samples were analyzed for THM by
liquid -liquid extraction (method 501.2,
US Environmental Protection Agency).2
Total hardness was measured by EDTA
titration according to method 314B in
Standard Methods,3 and total alkalinity
was measured by acid titration (method
403 in Standard Methods3). Ultraviolet
254 absorbance (254 nm) was measured
through a 1 -cm cell by a spectrophotom-
eter* after the sample was filtered
through 0.8 -mm filter paper. Chlorine
dioxide was analyzed by the DPD method
(Standard Methods, 401C3) and 03 by the
indigo blue method. Free and total
chlorine were analyzed by the DPD
colorimetric method (method 408E in
Standard Methods).
Treatment alternatives. Treatment al-
ternatives were chosen to meet a range
of potential THM standards. Capital and
operating costs vary with the required
THM level and the treatment alternative
selected. Eleven separate treatment al-
ternatives were evaluated (Table 5).
Alternative disinfectants -oxidants were
added at various stages of the conven-
tional treatment process. A strong pre-
disinfectant-preoxidant was desired in
the full-scale plants to reduce biological
growths in the open clarifiers and to
improve filter run times. The common
elements in each treatment alternative
were process equipment, alum dosage,
sodium hydroxide dosage, and flow rate.
The variables were the disinfectant
chemicals used.
A GACt filter-adsorber was operated
in parallel with a dual -media filter at
plant 1 and a sand filter at plant 2 for
each treatment alternative. Virgin car-
bon was installed in the GAC filter.
After the pilot tests were completed, the
GAC had been in use for the equivalent
of five to six days of continuous operation
(180 gal/ib [1.5 m3/kg] GAC). The GAC
column and filter columns received the
same influent. No estimates of the time
to breakthrough and operational costs
for GAC could be determined during
pilot -plant studies because of the short
testing period.
Subsequent tests were conducted with
a GAC column to determine THM and
THM precursor removal effectiveness.
In these tests, Cl2 was added to the
secondary effluent of plant 1 at a dose of
2 mg/L, which reduced biological activ-
ity. After approximately 10 s of contact
time, the water passed through a 4 -in. -
(10.2 -cm-) diameter by 3 -ft- (0.9-m-) long
column of GAC. The GAC column was
operated at 2 gpm/sq ft (4.6 m/min) and
was backwashed once every three days.
Influent and effluent samples were
spiked to 6 mg chlorine/L so that a
residual of at least 0.5 mg/L was present
after three days. Effluent samples had
higher C12 residuals at the beginning of
TABLE 4
Chemical dosages
Chemical
Dosage—mg/L
Plant 1
Plant 2
Aluminum sulfate • 18 H2O
50
30
Sodium hydroxide
15
9
Chlorine
2-8
2-10
Monochloramine
2-3
2
Chlorine dioxide
1.5
1.5
Ozone
2
2
Hydrogen peroxide
1
1
Potassium permanganate
2
2
PAC
20
20
200
160
40
CI, CIO, KMnOCPAC 03 v' -"2%J=
Raw Water Disinfectant
Figure S. Terminal THM results for plant 2
300
250
Q200
i
150
A
a
zy
9 100
10 20 30 40 Time—days 50
Figure 7. Terminal THM results for GAC pilot test
80 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
TABLE 5
THM results
300
250
200
1S0
100
50
0
0 20 40 so so 100 120
Ttma–n
Figure & Rate of formation of THMs in raw water
0.10
0.08
0.06
0.04
0.02
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Time --days
Figure S. Ultraviolet absorbance results for GAC pilot test
the test. Samples were analyzed for
THMs after three days.
Resufts
Filter effluent samples were collected
and analyzed for three-day term-THM
for each of the 11 treatment alternatives.
Term-THM results for both plants are
listed in Table 5 and shown in Figure 4
for plant 1 and Figure 5 for plant 2.
Run 1. The objective of run 1A was to
determine the THM concentration if no
THM control measures were used, thus
establishing a baseline for comparison
with the other treatment alternatives.
Chlorine was used as the preoxidant-
disinfectant and final disinfectant. In
alternative 1A, C12 was added to the raw
water at a dose of 8-10 mg/L. A C12
residual was present throughout the
treatment process, and the filter effluent
contained 2-3 mg chlorine/L. The three-
day term-THM concentration was 152
µg/L at plant 1 and 177 µg/L at plant 2.
These were similar to full-scale plant
term-THM concentrations without THM
control measures.
In alternative 111, ammonia was added
to the filter effluent to form NH2Cl. The
three-day term-THM concentrations
were 88 Ag/L at plant 1 and 98 µg/L at
plant 2. When free C12 is the distribution
system disinfectant, >40 percent of the
term-THM could be formed in the dis-
tribution system, assuming that little
THM formation occurs after the addition
of ammonia.
Ammonia could be added earlier in the
treatment process to reduce the THM
concentration further. However, ade-
quate contact time with a disinfectant
that is stronger than NH2C1 must be
ensured, as outlined in the Surface Water
Treatment Rule. The THM formation
rates were rapid when C12 was added to
the raw water of both plants (Figure 6).
The THM concentration was 78 µg/L at
both plants after 30 min of contact with
free C12. Raw -water THM formation rate
curves are shown in Figure 6 for plants 1
and 2. A better alternative would be to
use a raw -water oxidant other than C12,
and possibly to add C12 after settling,
when THM precursors are reduced.
The GAC effluent had three-day term
THM concentrations of 9 µg/L at plant 1
and 20 µg/L at plant 2 with free C12 as
the final disinfectant (alternative 1A).
With NH2C1 as the final disinfectant
(alternative 111), the GAC filter effluent
had a three-day term-THM concentration
of 3 µg/L at plant 1 and 2 µg/L at plant 2.
Although the term-THM concentrations
in water that was treated with GAC
were low for all alternatives, the GAC
system was not in operation long (equiv-
alent to five or six days of continuous
*Model 110, Hitachi, American Scientific Products, Deer•
field, ill.
tFittrasorb-300 (0.& 1.0 -mm e.s.), Calgon Corp., Pittsburgh,
Pa.
JUNE 1990 ANTHONY G. MYERS 81
Primary
Three -Day Term-THM—µg/L
Treatment
Raw
Water
Basin
Effluent
Filter
Effluent
plant 1
Plant 2
Alternative
Treatment
Treatment
Treatment
GAC
Filter
GAC
Filter
IA
C12
Cl2
9
152
20
177
1B
C12
NH(I
3
89
2
98
2A
C1O2
C12
C12
9
93
9
86
2B
C1O2
C12
NH2C1
3
54
2
51
3A
03
C12
C12
11
85
9
85
3B
03
C12
NH2C1
1
59
1
45
3C
03
NH �1
NH2C1
1
3
2
10
3D
03-H2O2
CIZ
C12
9
59
14
101
3E
OrH2O2
C12
NH2C1
1
32
2
48
4A
KMnO4
C12
C12
7
87
6
114
4B
KMnO4
C12
NH2Cl
1 1
41 1
2 1
60
300
250
200
1S0
100
50
0
0 20 40 so so 100 120
Ttma–n
Figure & Rate of formation of THMs in raw water
0.10
0.08
0.06
0.04
0.02
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Time --days
Figure S. Ultraviolet absorbance results for GAC pilot test
the test. Samples were analyzed for
THMs after three days.
Resufts
Filter effluent samples were collected
and analyzed for three-day term-THM
for each of the 11 treatment alternatives.
Term-THM results for both plants are
listed in Table 5 and shown in Figure 4
for plant 1 and Figure 5 for plant 2.
Run 1. The objective of run 1A was to
determine the THM concentration if no
THM control measures were used, thus
establishing a baseline for comparison
with the other treatment alternatives.
Chlorine was used as the preoxidant-
disinfectant and final disinfectant. In
alternative 1A, C12 was added to the raw
water at a dose of 8-10 mg/L. A C12
residual was present throughout the
treatment process, and the filter effluent
contained 2-3 mg chlorine/L. The three-
day term-THM concentration was 152
µg/L at plant 1 and 177 µg/L at plant 2.
These were similar to full-scale plant
term-THM concentrations without THM
control measures.
In alternative 111, ammonia was added
to the filter effluent to form NH2Cl. The
three-day term-THM concentrations
were 88 Ag/L at plant 1 and 98 µg/L at
plant 2. When free C12 is the distribution
system disinfectant, >40 percent of the
term-THM could be formed in the dis-
tribution system, assuming that little
THM formation occurs after the addition
of ammonia.
Ammonia could be added earlier in the
treatment process to reduce the THM
concentration further. However, ade-
quate contact time with a disinfectant
that is stronger than NH2C1 must be
ensured, as outlined in the Surface Water
Treatment Rule. The THM formation
rates were rapid when C12 was added to
the raw water of both plants (Figure 6).
The THM concentration was 78 µg/L at
both plants after 30 min of contact with
free C12. Raw -water THM formation rate
curves are shown in Figure 6 for plants 1
and 2. A better alternative would be to
use a raw -water oxidant other than C12,
and possibly to add C12 after settling,
when THM precursors are reduced.
The GAC effluent had three-day term
THM concentrations of 9 µg/L at plant 1
and 20 µg/L at plant 2 with free C12 as
the final disinfectant (alternative 1A).
With NH2C1 as the final disinfectant
(alternative 111), the GAC filter effluent
had a three-day term-THM concentration
of 3 µg/L at plant 1 and 2 µg/L at plant 2.
Although the term-THM concentrations
in water that was treated with GAC
were low for all alternatives, the GAC
system was not in operation long (equiv-
alent to five or six days of continuous
*Model 110, Hitachi, American Scientific Products, Deer•
field, ill.
tFittrasorb-300 (0.& 1.0 -mm e.s.), Calgon Corp., Pittsburgh,
Pa.
JUNE 1990 ANTHONY G. MYERS 81
operation) and was not anticipated to be
near breakthrough.
Run 2. The objective of run 2 was to
determine THM levels when C102 was
used as the primary oxidant -disinfectant
and both C12 and NH2Cl were used as
final disinfectants. In alternative 2A,
C102 was added to the raw water and C12
was added to the primary basin effluent
to produce a free C12 residual through
secondary clarification and into the
finished water. Three-day term-THM
concentrations were 93 ug/L in -plant 1
and 86 µg/L in plant 2 with dual -media
and sand filtration. With GAC filtration,
three-day term-THM concentrations
were 9 µg/L at both plants.
Alternative 213 was similar to 2A except
that NH2Cl was formed in the filter
effluent. Three-day term-THM concen-
trations were 54 µg/L with dual -media
filtration at plant 1 and 51 µg/L with
sand filtration at plant 2. With GAC
filtration, term-THM levels were 3 µg/L
at plant 1 and 2 µg/L at plant 2.
Additional tests were conducted under
similar conditions to those used for
alternative 2A except that Cl2 was added
to the filter effluent instead of to the
primary basin effluent. Chlorine dioxide
was still added to the raw water. Three-
day term-THM concentrations were
similar to those of the previous tests in
which C12 was added to the primary
basin effluent, indicating that little THM
precursor removal occurred during sec-
ondary settling and filtration.
The C102 demand of the raw water
left a C102 residual of only 0.1 mg/L after
0.5 h of contact time. Because C12 addition
to the primary basin (versus the filter
effluent) did not increase three-day
term-THM when Cl2 was the final disin-
fectant, a longer C12 contact time in the
plant would be desirable for disinfection.
Run 3. Run 3 was performed to deter-
mine THM levels when 03 was used as
the primary oxidant -disinfectant and
both C12 and NH2Clwere used as final
disinfectants.
In alternative 3A, 03 was added to the
raw water and C12 -was added to the
primary basin effluent. Three-day term-
THM concentrations in both plants were
85µg/L with dual -media and sand filtra-
tion and 9-11 µg/L with GAC filtration
in plants 1 and 2, respectively. Because
03 dosage was not optimized for THM
reduction, lower THM levels might have
been achieved at a different 03 dosage.
Ozone optimization, however, was be-
yond the scope of the project.
Ammonia was added to the filter
effluent in alternative 313 and to the
primary basin effluent in alternative 3C
to determine THM levels with various
free Cl2 contact times. In alternative 313,
three-day term-THM concentrations
were 59 µg/L at plant 1 and 45 µg/L at
plant 2 with dual -media and sand filtra-
tion. With GAC filtration, the three-day
TABLE 6
Chemical treatment costs
*10 years at 8 percent
Estimated
Estimated
Estimated
§Based on three-month replacement period, no regeneration, existing filter boxes
Amortized
Annual
Total
Costs of alternative disinfectants
Capital Cost*
O&M Cost
Cosh
Chemical
Dose
$/1,000gal
$11,OOO9al
$/1,000gal
Treatment
mg/L
($/ms)
($/m3)
($/ms)
Ammonia
1
0.007 (0.002)
0.006 (0.001)
0.013 (0.003)
Potassium
to filter influent, NH2Cl added to finished water
permanganate
2
0.005 (0.001)
0.025 (0.006)
0.029 (0.008)
Chlorine dioxide
1.5
0.010 (0.003)
0.053 (0.014)
0.063 (0.017)
PAC
20
0.005 (0.001)
0.083 (0.022)
0.088 (0.023)
Ozone
2
0.130 (0.034)
0.012 (0.006)
0.151(0.040)
Ozone-H2O2
2/1
0.138 (0.036)
0.037 (0.010)
0.175 (0.046)
Air stripping$
0.124 (0.033)
0.046 (0.012)
0.170 (0.045)
GAC§
0.034 (0.009)
0.913 (0.242)
0.947 (0.250)
*10 years at 8 percent
tsum of amortized capital and operating costs
*Includes new pumping and piping modifications
§Based on three-month replacement period, no regeneration, existing filter boxes
TABLE 7
Costs of alternative disinfectants
Potential
Estimated
THM Standard
Total Cosh
'U91L
Disinfectant Alternative*
$11,000 gal ($/m3)
50
Ammonia added to chlorinated finished water
0.013 (0.003)
25
KMnO4 added to raw water, C1O2 added
0.105 (0.028)
to filter influent, NH2Cl added to finished water
5
03 added to raw water, NH2Cl added to settling
0.164 (0.043)
basins
*Combined with conventional treatment (rapid mix, coagulation -flocculation, settling, filtration)
tCosts are for additional chemicals, 0&M equipment, and storage -feed equipment only.
term-THM concentration was 1 µg/L at
both treatment plants.
In alternative 3C, NH2C1 was added to
the primary basin effluent and an NH2Cl
residual was maintained through filtra-
tion. Ozone was added to the raw water.
Three-day term-THM concentrations
were 3 µg/L in plant 1 and 10 µg/L in
plant 2 with dual -media and sand filtra-
tion and 2 µg/L in both plants with GAC
filtration. Low THM concentrations were
expected because free C12 was not
present.
Hydrogen peroxide was added before
ozonation in alternatives 3D and 3E in an
attempt to enhance oxidation of THM
precursors in the raw water and reduce
finished -water THM concentrations.
Alternative 3D was similar to alternative
3A except that H202 was added along
with 03. Chlorine was added to the
primary settling basin effluent, and a
free chlorine residual was maintained
through filtration. Results showed three-
day term-THM concentrations of 59 µg/L
at treatment plant 1 and 101 µg/L at
plant 2 with conventional filtration. The
GAC effluent term-THM concentration
was 9 µg/L at plant 1 and 14 µg/L at
plant 2.
Alternative 3E was similar to alterna-
tive 3D except ammonia was added to the
filter effluent to form an NH2Cl residual.
Filter effluent term-THM concentrations
for both plants (32 and 48 µg/L) were
approximately half that of alternative
3D in which a free C12 residual was
maintained after filtration. The GAC
effluent term-THM concentration was
1-2 µg/L at both plants.
Run 4. Run 4 was similar to the existing
water treatment plant practice of adding
KMn04 (2 mg/L) to the raw water, alum
coagulation, pH adjustment, and disin-
fection with C12. It was different in that
20 mg PAC/L was added to the raw
water to enhance removal of THM pre-
cursors. The THM precursors were
removed by oxidation, adsorption, and
coagulation. In alternative 4A, C12 was
added to the primary settling basin ef-
fluent and a free C12 residual was carried
through filtration. Three-day term-THM
concentrations were 87 µg/L in plant 1
with dual -media filtration and 114 µg/L
in plant 2 with sand filtration. These
THM concentrations were not signif-
icantly less than those for the full-scale
water plant. Although PAC produced
some term-THM reduction, significant
decreases in THM levels are not antici-
pated. After GAC filtration, term-THM
concentrations were 7 µg/L for plant 1
and 6 µg/L for plant 2.
Alternative 4B was similar to alterna-
tive 4A except that ammonia was added
to the filter effluent. Three-day term-
THM concentrations were 41 µg/L in
the dual -media effluent of plant 1 and 60
µg/L in the sand filter effluent of plant 2.
Adding ammonia at the end of the
treatment process reduced term-THMs
82 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
by approximately 50 percent. The GAC
effluent contained 1-2 µg THMs/L.
Current plant operation does not
typically use PAC, but KMn04 is added
to the raw water and C12 is added to the
filter influent. Previous THM results
along with the pilot -study results indi-
cate that a free C12 contact time of 3-4 h
in the clearwell could produce THM
concentrations <50 µg/L with the exist-
ing water plant operation. This suggests
that adding ammonia after the clearwell
or to the high -service discharge line
could provide adequate disinfection and
THM levels <50 ug/L.
Filtration. Supplementary data on head
loss and turbidity were collected from
the dual -media, sand, and GAC filters.
Optimization of filter performance was
not an objective of the pilot -plant tests.
Because pilot -plant operation was in-
termittent, filter runs were not carried
to terminal head loss. Filter runs were
typically terminated after 8-12 h of
operation. During that time, effluent
turbidity averaged 0.1-0.2 ntu and was
similar with dual -media, sand, and GAC
filtration. Filter head loss reached 1-2 ft
(0.3-0.6 m) and was slightly less through
the GAC filter. GAC was an effective
filter medium for turbidity reduction
under the conditions of the pilot test.
254 -nm UV absorbance. Ultraviolet ab-
sorbance (254 nm) was measured with
the raw water, filter effluent, and GAC
effluent for each alternative. In some
cases, 254 -nm UV absorbance indicates
the level of THM precursors present in
the water.' Raw -water 254 -nm UV ranged
from 0.11 to 0.13 in both plants. Filter
effluent 254 -nm UV ranged from 0.02 to
0.05, and that for GAC effluent was near
zero. 03 pretreatment was more effective
in oxidizing compounds that absorb light
at a UV wavelength of 254 nm. A typical
254 -nm UV measurement for filtered
water treated with 03 was 0.02. The
results, however, did not indicate lower
THM levels for 03 pretreated water
when chlorine was used as a disinfectant,
as shown in Figures 4 and 5. This
suggests that, although 254 -nm UV
absorbance may be useful in comparing
the THM formation potentials of raw
waters, oxidation or selective adsorption
of organic precursors may alter 254 -nm
UV absorbance so that the treated water
absorbance may not be indicative of
THM formation potential.
GAC pilot test. The extended GAC pilot
test was conducted at plant 1 from
February to May 1989. Three-day term-
THM results are shown in Figure 7.
Influent three-day term-THMs averaged
237 µg/L, and term-THM reduction
averaged 44 percent over the 90 -day test
period. Because C12 was in contact with
the influent for only 10 s before GAC
treatment, GAC functioned mainly for
THM precursor removal, not for THM
removal. The GAC effluent term-THM
concentrations were >100 µg/L after
only three weeks of operation.
The 254 -nm UV was also measured for
the GAC influent and effluent, and re-
sults are shown in Figure 8. Increasing
effluent 254 -nm UV absorbance indicates
reduced GAC capacity for 254 -nm UV -
absorbing compounds and indicates, to
some degree, increasing THM levels.
Discussion
Using C12 as the final disinfectant and
03, C102, or KMn04 as the primary
oxidant -disinfectant produced three-day
term-THM concentrations of 69 to 114
Ag/L. It would be difficult to meet a 50-
µg/L THM standard with these disin-
fectants and existing water plant pro-
cesses. However, three-day term-THM
concentrations were reduced by 40-60
percent with the alternative primary
disinfectants compared with using C12
as the primary and final disinfectant.
Pilot -plant testing was done when
THM concentrations are historically
highest. Average annual THM values
would be lower than those given here.
However, the intent was to determine
THM reduction effectiveness for the
most difficult -to -treat water.
Using NH2C1 as the final disinfectant,
adding C12 to the primary basin effluent,
and using 03, C102, or KMn04 as raw
water oxidants -disinfectants produced
three-day term-THM concentrations of
30-60 µg/L. This represents a term-
THM reduction of 60-82 percent com-
pared with using chlorine as the primary
and final disinfectant. A 50-Ag/L THM
standard could be met using these
treatment schemes and the existing
water plant processes.
The finished -water THM concentra-
tions may be lowered further by reducing
the C12 contact time. However, previous
results show that even with a 1-h C12
contact time in filtered water, THM
concentrations were approximately 20-
30 Ag/L. Adequate disinfection should
be the first priority. Strong disinfectants
like 03 can shorten C12 contact time or
eliminate the need for C12 altogether and
still provide adequate disinfection.
To meet much lower THM standards,
the use of C12 may need to be eliminated.
One method would be to use 03 as the
primary disinfectant and NH2Cl as the
final disinfectant. This was tested in
alternative 3C, for which three-day term-
THM concentrations were 2-3 pg/L.
Another option could be addition of
KMn04 to the raw water, C102 to the
filter influent, and NH2C1 to the finished
water. Although this alternative was
not tested, THM concentrations would
be expected to be low because C12 is not
present. Adequate disinfection with C102
and acceptable disinfection by-product
concentrations would have to be ensured.
Preozonation did not significantly
reduce term-THMs compared with the
use of C102 or KMn04 when both Cl2 and
NH2C1 were used as final disinfectants.
In another study, C102 used as a pre -
oxidant was found to decrease THM
precursor concentrations by more than
10 percent only when TOC concentra-
tions were <4 mg/L. , Some investiga-
tions found THMs to decrease with the
use of 03,6,7 whereas others found in-
creases in THM levels with the use of 03
and C12 or NH2C1 as final disinfectants. 8.9
Varying results may be caused by differ-
ences in the organic composition of the
water and the formation of THM pre-
cursors after ozonation.10 In some cases
the presence of bromide produces a
higher concentration of brominated
THMs after ozonation.11 Results from
this investigation showed little difference
in brominated THM species with or
without ozonation. Brominated THM
concentrations were between 10 and 20
percent of total THMs.
A 30 percent reduction in term-THM
concentration was achieved at plant 1 by
using H202 with 03 compared with 03
alone. However, term-THM concentra-
tion increased with H202 and 03 at plant
2. Some studies have shown THM
reduction using H202 and 03,12 whereas
others have shown little or no change.10
Granular activated carbon filtration
produced three-day term-THM levels of
6-20,ug/L when C12 was used as the final
disinfectant. The nonabsorbable fraction
of THM precursors (approximately 2-10
percent of raw water precursors) would
make it difficult to meet a standard of 10
µg THMs/L even with virgin GAC. If
NH2C1 were used as the final disinfectant
after GAC, THM levels could be very low
if THMs did not form upstream of GAC
or THM breakthrough did not occur.
Adequate disinfection must be verified
when using NH2C1 after GAC treatment.
Additional GAC pilot tests were carried
out to determine the capacity of GAC
when a chlorinated secondary settling
basin effluent is treated. Although re-
sults indicate that an average of 44
percent THM reduction may occur dur-
ing three months of operation, low THM
levels would be difficult to achieve and
costs would be high. The high costs of
GAC for THM reduction have been noted
by others.13 Studies have shown signif-
icant breakthrough of THMs in fixed
bed adsorbers after 10 weeks of opera-
tion.14 Chloroform was the least strongly
adsorbed of four THM species.
Air stripping is another treatment
alternative for removing THMs after
they form. Although air stripping was
not pilot tested, a simplified analysis of
effectiveness can be performed from the
available data. The pilot -plant results
indicate that with raw -water chlorina-
tion, approximately 50 percent of the
three-day term-THMs would be formed
during the 20- to 24-h period in the plant
and the other 50 percent in the distribu-
JUNE 1990 ANTHONY G. MYERS 83
tion system (Figure 6). Assuming that
air stripping is the final treatment
process, C12 is the final disinfectant, and
95 percent THM removal can be accom-
plished with air stripping, the remaining
THM formation potential could still
produce 80-90 µg/L term-THMs in the
two water supplies studied. Air stripping
does not remove most THM precur-
sors.Is.ls Other investigators found that
>90 percent THM removal could be
achieved with air stripping.Is Removal
of THMs by air stripping decreases as
the amount of brominated THM species
increases. Chloroform accounted for >80
percent of the total THM concentration
in the two water supplies studied.
Using NH2C1 as the final disinfectant
after air stripping would produce much
lower term-THMs. But THM levels
would depend on the removal effective-
ness of air stripping, and adequate disin-
fection with NH2C1 would have to be
demonstrated. One last consideration is
that raw -water chlorination may produce
undesirable by-products not easily re-
moved by air stripping.
Cost of treatment alternatives
Capital and operating costs were
estimated for each treatment method
tested. A summary of capital, operating,
and total costs (amortized capital plus
operating costs) is shown in Table 6.
Capital cost estimates are for a water
plant designed for a maximum flow rate
of 4 mgd (10.5 m3/min). The operating
and maintenance (0&M) cost estimates
are based on an average -day demand of
1.5 mgd (3.9 m3/min) and are for addi-
tional chemicals, energy, and equipment
0&M only.
Combinations of the various chemical
treatment methods could be grouped
into a treatment alternative and the
costs determined by adding the costs of
the individual chemical treatment meth-
ods given in Table 6. Chlorine was not
included because most treatment plants
have chlorination facilities. Some cost
benefits of alternative disinfectants were
not quantified. For example, 03 may
decrease C12 and alum chemical costs."
These benefits will vary with different
water sources.
Table 7 shows some potential treat-
ment alternatives for meeting various
THM standards. As indicated, costs
increase steeply as the MCL for THMs is
lowered. In the two water plants studied,
a 50-µg/L THM standard could be met
by adding ammonia to finished water at
a cost of $0.013/1,000 gal ($0.003/m3).
Potassium permanganate, chlorine diox-
ide, and ammonia may be needed at
various points in the treatment process
to meet a 25-µg/L or lower THM standard
at a cost of $0.105/1,000 gal ($0.028/m3).
A low THM standard of 5 µg/L or less
may require 03 and NH2C1 at a cost of
$0.164/1,000 gal ($0.043/m3). The cost-
effective alternative for a particular
water plant and THM standard must be
determined on a case-by-case basis.
Summary and conclusions
The conclusions of the pilot study are
based on a limited amount of data. How-
ever, the following general results of the
study may help smaller water utilities
prepare to produce water with lower
THM concentrations.
• Eliminating raw -water chlorination,
using an alternative primary disinfec-
tant, and optimizing coagulation for
THM precursor removal are a good first
step in reducing THMs. However, if C12
is used as the final disinfectant, THM
precursor removal with conventional
treatment may not be adequate to reach
required THM levels.
• Using NH2C1 instead of C12 as the
final disinfectant is a relatively inex-
pensive method of THM reduction, but
full-scale tests should be conducted to
determine whether it is an acceptable
distribution system disinfectant. Tests
may include using NH2Cl for one year
and monitoring for coliforms, hetero-
trophic plate count, and disinfectant
residual in an isolated portion of the
distribution system. Appropriate public
notification must also be carried out.
• Lower THM standards may require
combinations of disinfectants besides
chlorine.
• Treatment costs rise steeply as
lower THM levels are desired.
• Granular activated carbon can be
effective for removing THM and THM
precursors, but costs may be prohibitive
for small water systems.
• Air stripping may be effective for
THM removal if NH2C1 is an acceptable
distribution system disinfectant. Tri-
halomethanes may continue to form
following air stripping if C12 is used as
the final disinfectant.
• Water treatment plants must be
evaluated individually to determine the
appropriate approach for reducing THM
concentrations. Extended pilot- or full-
scale tests are recommended before
implementation of a new treatment
method.
Acknowledgment
The author thanks Macon Municipal
Utilities and the city of Moberly, Mo., for
making this project possible and for
their help and cooperation throughout
the project. Analytical assistance from
the St. Louis Water Department is also
appreciated. Comments and suggestions
from Roger Yorton, Bill Bellamy, Bob
Chapman, and Alan Scrivner at CH2M
HILL Inc. are appreciated.
References
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Trihalomethane Precursors by Coagu-
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Intl. Sym. on Ozone Technology, Intl.
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Preozonation on the Formation of Tri-
halomethanes. Ozonews, 6:3, Part 2 (1979).
10. JACANGELO, J.G. ET AL. Ozonation: Assess-
ing Its Role in the Formation and Control
of Disinfection By -Products. Jour.
A WWA, 81:8:74 (Aug. 1989).
11. DORE, M. ET AL. Interactions Between
Ozone, Halogens, and Organic Com-
pounds. Ozone Sci. & Engrg., 10:53 (1988).
12. WALLACE, J.L. ET AL. The Combination of
Ozone -Hydrogen Peroxide and Ozone -UV
Radiation for Reduction of Trihalometh-
ane Formation Potential in Surface Wa-
ter. Ozone Sci. & Engrg., 10:103 (1988).
13. LYKINS, B.W. ET AL. Granular Activated
Carbon for Controlling THMs. Jour.
A WWA, 80:5:85 (May 1988).
14. Chlorination By -Products: Production
and Control. KIWA Communication 74.
AWWARF, Denver, Colo. (Jan. 1986).
15. SYMONS, J. M. ET AL. Removal of Organic
Contaminants From Drinking Water
Using Techniques Other Than Granular
Activated Carbon Alone: Progress Report.
USEPA, Cincinnati, Ohio (1979).
16. SINGLEY, J.E. ET AL. Trace Organics
Removal by Air Stripping. AWWARF,
Denver, Colo. (1980).
17. WAGNER, R. & ELEFRITZ, R.A. Ozonation
for Effective THM Control. Public Works
Magazine (Apr. 1983).
About the author:
Anthony G. Myers is
an environmental en-
gineer in the Water
Supply and Treat-
ment Division of
CH2M HILL Inc.,
310 W. Wisconsin
r► Ave., P.O. Box 2090,
Milwaukee, WI 53201. He is a graduate
of Michigan Technological University,
Houghton (BS), and the University of
Illinois, Urbana (MS), and is member of
A WWA and WPCF.
84 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
Evaluation of Treatment
for Removing Giardia Cysts
Jerry E. Ongerth
The removal of Giardia cysts by three small (0.01- to 0.57-mgd) treatment plants—one with
conventional filtration, one with in-line filtration, and one with diatomaceous earth
filtration—was studied. Turbidity and cyst removals for each were compared with those of
parallel pilot filters (1 gpm) seeded with Giardia cysts and with and without optimization of
chemical treatment. Cyst removal efficiencies ranged from about 40 to 99 percent. Design and
operating deficiencies likely contributed to the observed treatment performances. Major
deficiencies included lack of or poor optimization of chemical treatment, on-off cycles of filters
without backwashing, absence of operator control of backwashing, and no filtering to waste.
Giardiasis is the most prevalent water-
borne disease in the United States.
Outbreaks generally occur in small water
systems that use surface water without
filtration. Several outbreaks have oc-
curred, however, in water systems that
employ complete treatment or at least
simple filtration. In some instances in
which complete treatment or filtration
was employed, incorrect design, installa-
tion, or operation of the processes may
have contributed to the loss of system
integrity. In other instances, no apparent
problem could be detected nor could
cysts be recovered from the water.
Inspection of water treatment plants
associated with outbreaks of giardiasis
has shown that physical defects in plant
construction or lack of effective operation
or maintenance frequently results in
increased potential for cyst passage. At
Camas, Wash., an inspection of the
multimedia pressure filters revealed
significant loss of media and mounding
of support gravel.' This, combined with
less -than -optimum chemical condition-
ing, could have resulted in cyst passage.
In one plant at Berlin, N.H.,2 pressure
filters had uneven media distribution,
mud masses, and media clogging; sepa-
ration of media from chamber walls; and
malfunctioning of the air -scour system.
Also at Berlin, at a newer, conventional
gravity filtration plant, a construction
defect was found in a common wall
between settled- and filtered -water areas.
This could have permitted cross -con-
tamination of finished water by Giardia -
containing raw water.
At Reno, Nev., comparisons made
between samples of finished water from
JUNE 1990
one plant with direct filtration (without
sedimentation) and from a second plant
with only coagulation and sedimentation
(without filtration) showed that under
some conditions more cyst -size particles
were found in the filtered water than in
the water receiving only chemical treat-
ment and sedimentation.'
Effective cyst removal can be achieved
by properly operated granular media
filtration of various designs and opera-
tional configurations. Tests show, how-
ever, that some filter passage (2 to 8
percent of cyst -size particles) occurs in
normal operation under conditions of
heavy cyst loading.4 This may occur in
all types of filters. Tests indicate that
slow sand filtration is particularly effec-
*A full report on this project is available from the AW WA
Research Foundation, 6666 West Quincy Ave., Denver, CO
sons.
JERRY E. ONGERTH 85
tive for removal of cysts and cyst -size
particles from low -turbidity water.5-7
Tests with diatomaceous earth (DE)
filters suggest that they also are effective
for cyst removal.8.9
Raw water that is cold and has low
turbidity and alkalinity is hard to coag-
ulate and filter to achieve efficient
turbidity removal.4.6.10 Filtered water
characteristically has a higher -than -
average turbidity when granular media
filtration is at one of the following three
operating stages: (1) immediately follow-
ing backwash, (2) at the end of the filter
cycle just prior to backwash, and (3)
depending on circumstances, when sig-
nificant changes in flow rate, turbidity,
or chemical treatment occur during a
filter run. 11-13 Turbidity removal is typi-
cally low following backwash as the
filter bed becomes reconditioned by the
chemically conditioned water passing
through it. The period may last from a
few minutes to an hour or more. Poorer -
quality water produced in this period
has led to the practice of wasting the
filtered water during the reconditioning
period. Pilot -scale tests indicate that
cyst -size particles may pass through
filters in relatively large numbers during
this period.4.6,8
Increased effluent turbidity at the end
of a filter run may result in passage of
cysts and cyst -size particles.4.6.8 Some
work indicates that cysts migrate
through a filter bed as a function of filter
run length and chemical conditioning. 4.6
Short-term increases in filter effluent
turbidity associated with discontinuities
in flow rate and major changes in tur-
bidity or chemical conditioning have
also been shown, in pilot studies, to
result in increased passage of cysts or
cyst -size particles.8
The primary objective of this project
was to investigate and evaluate full-
scale water treatment plants, at normal
water quality and operating conditions,
for the removal of Giardia lamblia cysts.
The project focused on the design char-
acteristics of water treatment processes
considered critical in cyst removal and
on operational practices that affect cyst
removal. Disinfection was not included
in this investigation.
Methods
Approach. Three types of treatment
were studied: (1) a 0.51-mgd conventional
treatment plant (operated without addi-
tion of coagulant chemicals) at commu-
nity A in Washington, (2) a 4-mgd
pressure -gravity in-line filtration plant
at community B in California, and (3) a
0.085-mgd DE filtration plant at com-
munity C in Washington. A slow sand
filtration plant was examined in a
companion project sponsored by the
AWWA Research Foundation.14
Two-week field studies at each plant
included (1) monitoring the full-scale
TABLE 1
Design speeifieiations for pilot plant components
Component
Type
Size
Detention
Time
Loading
Rapid mix
In-line, static
10 -in. x 1 -in. diameter
2s
1 gpm
Flocculator
Paddle, tapered
3 eachat 13 gal,
3 x 13 min
1 gpm
variable -speed
G = 0-1500
Sedimentation
Rectangular, upflow
3.25 cu ft, 12 x 24 x
23 min
3,165 gpd/sq ft
with tube settlers
20 in. at 30°
5 min
Filters
Multimedia, depth
0.2 sq ft
5 gpm/sq ft
varies
Backwash
2.5 gpm with
air
Controls
Automatic -manual for
0-10 gpm
backwash, manual
needle valve for flow
rate
Alum
Backwash water
disposal pond
Crystal Creek pipeline
xculstloe Sedimentation Fitter
section "cum
Spent backwash
Flocculation Sedimentation
section section
Flow control orifice
Flash mix
Fitter
I
I
I
I
I
I
Backwash
storage resenoir — Distribution
system
Figure 2. Schematic diagram of community A's full-scale treatment plant
100
eo
Bo
40
20
Et
Backwash
4/9 4/10 4/11 4/12 4/13 4/14 4/18 4/18 4/17 4/18
Dab -1985
Figure 4. Turbidity removal perfor-
mance for full-scale plant in commu-
nity A
Fubtw N waste
bac�'icwt ash
to wash
— I — — — Dlstrlbtttbn
Fitter 4 storage
reservoir
community B
Fitter 3
polymer supply tank
Fln.r 2 I I
I 1
I esckwash
Filter 1 water
L — — — — disposal
pond
`Screen chamber
From t___N
Gray Eagle Creek
Figure 6. Schematic diagram of community B's full-scale treatment plant
86 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
TABLE 2
Chemical conditioning used in operation of pilot plant I in community A
Date
Run
Number*
Time
Chemical and Dose
pH
4/12
1
11:25 a.m.
Alum -10.5 mg/L
6.6
2
1:10 P.M.
Alum -10.5 mg/L
6.5
3
2:10 p.m.
Alum -10.5 mg/L
6.9
4
2:50 p.m.
Alum -14.8 mg/L
6.4
5
4:45 p.m.
Alum -14.8 mg/L
6.2
4/16
6
5:30 p.m.
Calgon 233 as filter aid -0.33 mg/L, plus
6.5
alum -10.4 mg/L
7
4:10 p.m.
Calgon 233, as filter aid, only-
6.5
0.0245 mg/L
8
6:00 p.m.
Calgon 233 as filter aid -0.024 mg/L,
6.5
plus alum -10.4 mg/L
8A
10:00 P.M.
Calgon 233, as filter aid, only -0.033 mg/L
6.5
4/17
9
9:00 a.m.
Alum -16.5 mg/L
6.5
4/18
10
4:00 p.m.
Alum -14.5 mg/L
6.5
*See Figure 5
0.6
Raw water
-- Filtered water
0.5
0.4 ANN,
a
t
1,
0.3
c
0.2 My
0.1
ttactcwasn
Backwash Backwash
0.0 ,
4/5 4/6 4/7 4/8 4/9 4/10 4/11 4/12 4/13 4/14 4/15 4/16 4/17 4/18
Date -1985
Figure 3. Raw- and filtered -water turbidities for full-scale plant in community A
0.6
oil) a I
IN �� I
Backwash
& 0.3 II
Influent i ! J�
•»«»
pilot atter 1
(chemical treatment
optimization)
0.1
-- Pitot filter 2
(no chemical treatment) ? ?♦ ♦ ♦♦ �v
Run 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 8 10
oo
4/5 4/6 4/1 4/8 4/9 4/10 4/11 4/12 4/13 4/14 4/15 4/18 4/17 4/18
Dale -1985
Figure S. Raw- and filtered -water turbidities for pilot filters in community A,
showing effect of chemical conditioning
plant for cyst removal and treatment
performance; (2) operation and monitor-
ing of the pilot plant to supplement the
cyst removal and performance data from
the full-scale plant and to determine
optimum chemical treatment conditions;
and (3) a sanitary survey of the water-
shed and the treatment plant. Sampling
for Giardia focused on periods associated
with turbidity passage through the fil-
ters: (1) during filter conditioning im-
mediately after backwash, (2) imme-
diately before backwash as turbidity
breakthrough or time -limit criteria were
reached, and (3) during mid-cycle, under
normally peak efficiency operation, when
performance was affected by flow rate
changes or off -on cycles.
Optimization of chemical treatment
was carried out with one of two parallel
pilot -plant treatment trains. Turbidity
removal was examined as a function of
pH and of alum and polyelectrolyte
concentrations. Giardia cyst removal
and turbidity were monitored after the
optimal conditioning dosage had been
established.
Measuring performance. Treatment
plant performance was measured by the
continuous monitoring of raw- and fil-
tered -water turbidity, periodic particle
counts of raw and filtered water, and
periodic enumeration of Giardia cysts in
raw and filtered water. The effectiveness
of chemical conditioning was evaluated
by comparing the full-scale plant per-
formance with pilot -plant performance
under optimum conditions.
Sampling. Turbidity of the raw and
filtered water of both the full-scale and
pilot plants was monitored continuously.
Samples for cyst enumeration were
collected from sampling taps at the
turbidimeters in 20-L plastic. buckets.
Samples for particle counts were col-
lected in 20 -mL counting vials* at the
sampling taps. Samples for Giardia
enumeration were collected (1) imme-
diately following backwash at the start
of the filter -conditioning period, (2) just
prior to backwash when the filters were
most heavily loaded with particulates,
and (3) during mid-cycle under normal
filter operating conditions.
Analyses. Giardia cyst concentrations
were determined by membrane filtration
with selective cyst concentration15 and
immunofluorescence assay cyst iden-
tification.16 Raw- or filtered -water sam-
ples of from 10 gal (40 L) tn 120 gal (480 L)
were filtered under a 20 -in. -Hg (10 -psi)
vacuum through a 293 -mm -diameter, 5-
µm -pore -size polycarbonate membrane.t
Particles, including Giardia cysts, were
recovered from the filter membrane by
the method of DeWalle.8 Recovered
particles were concentrated by centrif-
uging and decanting and were then
•Coulter Electronics. Hialeah. Fla.
Muclepore, Pleasanton, Calif.
JUNE 1990 JERRY E. ONGERTH 87
TABLE 3
Community A -Giardia cyst removals in Pilot treatment trains with and without chemical conditioning
Pilot
Sampling
Sample
Cyst Concentration-number/gal
Overall
Removal
Cyst
Removal
percent
Plant
Sedimentation
Filter
Train
Date
Number
Influent
Effluent
Effluent
percent
Comments
I (chemical optimization)
4/17
16,18
527
13
98.0
0-15 after backwashing
1.1
95
19
1.5
99.7
15-30 after backwashing
20
28
0
1.1
30-45 after backwashing
24,25,26
527
0.6
99.9
4/18
28
0.03
0.9
99.8
0-15 after backwashing
6/10
31
29
7.2
71
0
5-30 after backwashing
30
2nd 10 gal
0
30-45 after backwashing
12.5
31
3rd 10 gal
0
33
45-60 after backwashing
22.3
7
40
528
6/11
0
15
45
528
42
0
25.2
37
528/750
347
38
660/750
21.1
94
2 (without chemical
4/09
1,2,3
426
362
41
90.3
0-15 after backwashing
conditioning)
4
Negative control = 0
130
69.0
15-30 after backwashing
18.0
5
194
54.0
30-45 after backwashing
6
2 (without chemical
6/5
292
31.0
45-60 after backwashing
4/12
14,13,12
202/650
185
54
73.0
13
1st 10 gal
15
519/650
18.2
9
2nd 10 gal
4/17
16,17
527
91
16
3rd 8.5 gal
7
27
650
143
78.0
6/6
10
4/18
39
33
11
34
41
528
27
97.0
0-15 after backwashing
8.1
75
42
153
71.0
15-30 after backwashing
80
1st 10 gal
44
20
155
70.0
30-45 after backwashing
2nd 10 gal
44
21
73
86.0
45-60 after backwashing
46,47
1 20
1 12
79
4th 10 gal
TABLE 4
Giardia cyst removals in Pilot treatment trains in community B with and without chemical conditioning
Pilot Train
Date
Sample
Number
Influent Cyst
Concentration
number/gal
Effluent Cyst
Concentration
number/gal
Cyst
Removal
percent
Comments
1(with chemical
6/8
24
3.8
84
optimization)
25
0
>99
26
1.1
95
27
24
28
1.1
95
29
0.03
>99
30
0.03
>99
1st 10 gal
6/10
31
7.2
71
2nd 10 gal
32
12.5
48
3rd 10 gal
33
22.3
7
4th 10 gal
6/11
37
15
42
25.2
6/12
47
347
49A
21.1
94
49s
50
Negative control = 0
6/13
53
18.0
84
54
27
2 (without chemical
6/5
3
20
conditioning)
4
17.5
13
1st 10 gal
5
18.2
9
2nd 10 gal
6
16.8
16
3rd 8.5 gal
7
6/6
10
22.8
33
11
34
6/7
14
8.1
75
19
6.8
80
1st 10 gal
20
16.0
53
2nd 10 gal
21
11.1
67
3rd 10 gal
22
7.3
79
4th 10 gal
6/11
35
13.4
61
36
17
44
6.5
62
1st 20 gal
45
18.8
2nd 20 gal
6/12
46
11.0
35
3rd 24 gal
6/13
51
Negative control = 0
55
34
3.5
1 89
88 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
formalin -fixed, refrigerated, and shipped
by overnight express to the California
Department of Health Services Labora-
tory for processing as described by
Riggs.16In summary, the Riggs procedure
consists of centrifuging the concentrated
particles on 40 percent potassium citrate,
rinsing, and filtering the final cyst -con-
taining particles onto a 25 -mm -diameter,
5 -µm -pore -size polycarbonate mem-
brane.* The particles were stained by a
fluorescein -labeled, polyclonal, guinea
pig anti -Giardia antibody. The stained
filters were mounted on glass slides and
examined by ultraviolet illumination
microscopy at 100 or 250X to enumerate
the Giardia cysts.
Turbidities were monitored using a
turbidimetent Particles in the Giardia
cyst size range (5-20 µm) were counted
using an electronic particle counter.$
Temperature was measured using a
certified glass capillary mercury ther-
mometer. The pH was measured using a
meter with a combination electrode.§
Sanitary survey. Sanitary surveys were
conducted to evaluate factors related to
the presence of Giardia cysts in the raw
water and to their removal (or nonre-
moval) in treatment. The surveys were
divided into four categories: (1) the
watershed, (2) water quality history, (3)
plant physical description, and (4) plant
operation.
Pilot plant
To ensure that useful data would be
obtained on Giardia cyst removal, a
mobile pilot plant was taken to each
plant site and was modified to provide
physical and operating conditions as
much as possible like those of the full-
scale plant. Heat -inactivated G. lamblia
cysts were added to the pilot -plant in-
fluent to allow the monitoring of cyst
removal. The pilot plant (Figure 1) con-
sisted of two parallel, hydraulically
independent, complete treatment trains,
each of 1-gpm capacity, housed in a 10 ft
X 32 -ft mobile trailer. Design specifica-
tions of the pilot -plant components are
summarized in Table 1.
The clear acrylic filters were 6 in. in
diameter and 8.3 ft long. Piping provided
for downflow filtration and backwash
with air scour and hydraulic surface
wash. The filters had flanged ends
permitting the media to be changed to
meet individual treatment plant specif-
ications. The 6 -in. -diameter filters (0.2
sq ft) were designed for a normal operat-
ing flow rate of 1 gpm or 5 gpm/sq ft.
One of the two pilot treatment trains
was used to simulate operation of the
full-scale plant. The other pilot treat-
ment train was operated under identical
physical conditions but with altered
chemical conditioning to assess its effects
on cyst removal. Inactivated G. lamblia
cysts were fed continuously to the in-
fluent of the pilot treatment trains.
A 0.93 -sq ft pilot DE filter** was used
during field investigations at community
C. The pilot filter package included a
single filter leaf with housing, tanks,
and pumps for precoat and body feed and
for control of the filtration rate.
Field investigations and results
Community A. Physical characteristics
of plant. This plant, located in the foot-
hills of the Cascade Mountains, served a
population of 1,100 people. Source water
was an impoundment of about 30 acre -ft
(10 mil gal) on a small stream draining a
watershed of about 100 acres.
The plant was a 400-gpm conventional
facility, though during this study and
for many months preceding it, no condi-
tioning chemicals were applied. Principal
components included an influent flow-
meter, chemical feed facilities and injec-
tion pumps, a static in-line flash mixer,
and two parallel 200-gpm treatment
modules, each with a baffled flocculation
section, a sedimentation section with
tube settlers, and dual -media gravity
filters (Figure 2). The media design
included 12 in. of graded gravel (3 in.
each of #1, #2, #3, and #4);16 in. of sand
(3 in. of F5, 2 -mm effective size [es]; 3 in.
of F9,1 -mm es; 10 in. of F16,0.45 -mm es
with 1.5 uniformity coefficient [uc]); and
18 in. of coal (C10, 0.9 -1.0 -mm es with
1.5 uc). Backwash was controlled auto-
matically on a timed cycle.
The plant was designed for constant -
head, declining -rate operation regulated
by a float -controlled throttling valve on
the filter effluent line. Observation of
plant operation indicated a constant
cycling of the water surface of approx-
imately 3 -in. rise and fall. Because of
limited storage capacity, the plant runs
continuously for long periods of time
during warm summer days to meet
demand. During the night and when the
weather is cool, only intermittent opera-
tion is required. Thus, much of the year,
typical operation includes numerous
on-off cycles between backwashes.
Plant performance. Investigations
were conducted from Apr. 1 to Apr. 18,
1985. Plant monitoring records from
mid -1981 through 1984 showed turbid-
ities were typically low from November
through March. Turbidities increased
almost continuously from spring through
fall. Although raw -water turbidity varied
between 0.25 ntu in winter and 0.7 ntu
in the fall, turbidity of the filtered water
was consistently about 0.1-0.2 ntu less
than that of the raw water. Filtered -
water turbidities ranged from 0.12 to
0.58 ntu on a monthly average basis.
The lack of a more consistent filtered -
water turbidity was due partly to the
practice of not applying coagulating
chemicals. The operator rationalized this
on the grounds that the filtered -water
turbidity generally met nominal drinking
water standards.
From April 1 to 18, plant production
averaged about 160 gpm. Because the
plant can operate only at the fixed rate of
400 gpm, it was filtering for about 40
percent of the time. Filtration occurred
during five to eight periods per day,
ranging in length from 1 to 2 h. The
plant backwashed five times during the
period of observation, on April 1, 5, 9, 12,
and 18. Raw -water turbidity ranged
from 0.25 to 0.5 ntu (Figure 3). Finished
water was consistently about 0.2 ntu
below the raw -water turbidity. As in-
dicated by the turbidity removal ef-
ficiency, overall treatment performance
ranged from 45 to 70 percent except for
periods immediately following back-
wash (Figure 4).
Eleven samples from the full-scale
plant were analyzed for Giardia cysts,
two of raw water and nine of finished
water. Cysts were found in one of the
two raw water samples at approximately
0.25 cyst/L. Cysts were found in seven of
the nine filtered water samples, ranging
from 0.012/L to approximately 0.25/L.
Cyst concentrations were generally
highest in filtered -water samples taken
immediately following backwash.
The concentration of cyst -size particles
in raw and finished water ranged from
100 to 500/mL and had a positive corre-
lation to turbidity. Particle concentra-
tions in the filtered -water samples were
15 to 70 percent lower than in the raw
water. The removal of cyst -size particles,
however, did not appear to be closely
related to turbidity removal.
Pilot plant. Fresh filter media were
washed and installed on April 1. The
pilot -plant influent line was connected
to the full-scale plant influent line on
that date, and the pilot plant was oper-
ated without monitoring, other than
flow rate adjustment, until April 5.
Monitoring of influent and effluent
turbidity began on April 5, and addition
of Giardia cysts to the pilot plant began
on April 9. Detailed pilot -plant monitor-
ing was conducted alongwith monitoring
of the full-scale plant from April 9
through 18. During operation the pilot -
plant flows were maintained at 1 gpm,
which resulted in a clarifier overflow
rate of 3,165 gpd/sq ft, a detention time
of 23 min, and a filtration rate of 5
gpm/sq ft, approximately equal to those
of the full-scale plant. Pilot -plant opera-
tion was tied directly to that of the full-
scale plant by connecting the pilot -plant
raw -water supply line to the main plant
supply line downstream of the influent
shut-off valve. Therefore, the pilot plant
operated for the same five to eight periods
per day as the full-scale plant, each
period ranging from about 1 to 2 h.
*Nuclepore, Pleasanton, Calif.
tModel 1720A or 2100A, Hach Co., Loveland, Colo.
$Model Z131, Coulter Electronics. Hialeah, Fla.
§Model 100, Orion Research, Cambridge, Mass.
**JM Corp., Denver, Colo.
HINE 1990 JERRY E. ONGERTH 89
Pilot filter 2 was operated exactly like
the filters of the full-scale plant, with no
chemical conditioning, and was back -
washed manually when the community
plant was backwashed. Pilot filter 2,
operating with new media (identical to
those of the full-scale plant), was inca-
pable of reducing the turbidity of the
feedwater (Figure 5). In fact, the fresh
filter media, although prewashed, con-
tinued to release fines, which contributed
to an effluent turbidity consistently
higher than that of the raw water.
Pilot filter 1 was used to establish
optimal chemical conditioning combina-
tions and to determine the treatment
performance capabilities of the plant,
including cyst removal, when operated
with chemical conditioning. Chemical
treatment evaluations were made for 10
separate runs on April 12,16,17, and 18
(Table 2). Performance of this pilot filter
was significantly better than that of the
full-scale plant for several of the condi-
tioning combinations (Figure 5).
Giardia cysts were fed continuously
to pilot filters 1 and 2 at concentrations
ranging from 500 to 750 cysts/L. A total
of 37 samples and controls were collected
from the two pilot filters for Giardia cyst
enumerations. Cyst removals observed
for pilot filter 2 ranged from 31 to 90.4
percent (Table 3). Cyst removal efficiency
during mid -run operating conditions
averaged about 75 percent (samples 12
and 27). Continuous samples collected in
consecutive 15 -min operating periods
beginning immediately following back-
wash indicated lower removal efficiency
during the initial 60 min. The somewhat
higher removal observed in the initial 15
min following backwash was likely due
to the volume of cyst -free backwash
water remaining in the filter column,
which became part of the sample.
Chemical conditioning. Several
combinations of alum, with and without
pH control, and polyelectrolyte used as a
filter aid were tested to determine their
effects on turbidity and cyst removal
(Table 2). Use of alum alone at about 10
mg/L or in combination with the nonionic
polyelectrolyte used as a filter aid at 0.03
mg/L significantly improved turbidity
removal and filter stability. At optimal
pretreatment, filtered -water turbidity
ranged from 0.03 to 0.07 ntu (Figure 5).
Giardia cyst removal by pilot filter 1
during optimal chemical conditioning
ranged from 98 to >99 percent. Eleven
samples of filtered water were collected
during chemical addition; cysts were
found in four, at a relatively low concen-
tration, during the initial 30 min follow-
ing backwash. No cysts were found in
the samples collected after the 30 -min
period (Table 3).
Sanitary survey. A survey of the
watershed and treatment plant identified
several factors that indicated the likely
presence of Giardia cysts in the raw
water and the potential for cyst carryover
into the finished water.
The watershed is a small, heavily
wooded basin drained by an unnamed
creek flowing into the raw -water im-
poundment. The watershed provides an
unmanaged and relatively secluded
animal habitat. Evidence of beaver and
muskrat was found at various locations.
Dense undergrowth and the absence of
litter suggest that sources of Giardia are
likely animal rather than human.
Several physical features provided an
opportunity for contamination. The
clearwell is directly beneath the floor
slab of the treatment units. Spent back-
wash water is collected in a sump formed
by the floor slab and concrete wall sec-
tions between the two parallel treatment
modules. A crack in the floor slab would
permit passage of the backwash water
directly into the clearwell. Drainage from
the road adjacent to the plant can
percolate into the ground beside the
subgrade clearwell. A wooden privy
serving the plant stands at the corner of
the plant building. Leakage from it would
present a serious source of contamination
should the concrete plant walls develop
cracks into the interior.
Several factors of plant operation
contribute to the potential for passage of
Giardia cysts. The plant is operated by
one person who has multiple mainte-
nance responsibilities in the community.
He spends an average of one hour per day
at the plant. Most significant, however,
is the complete absence of chemical
conditioning, although chemical feed
equipment and coagulants are on hand.
The hydraulic control scheme causes
the plant to cycle on and off from five to
eight times in a 24-h period. This imposes
hydraulic shocks on the clarifers and
filters, whose performance is already
compromised by the lack of chemical
pretreatment. The backwash cycle is
initiated automatically by a timer.
Therefore, backwashing normally occurs
when the operator is not present to
observe its effectiveness. Backwash
conditions are thus never adjusted.
Community B. Physical characteris-
tics of plant. The plant served a recrea-
tional community in the mountains
northeast of Sacramento, Calif. The sys-
tem had 600 service connections. Winter
use was about 0.29 mgd (200 gpm). Peak
demand in summer months was 2.9 mgd
(2,000 gpm). The climate was typical of
the western mountains, little different
from communities A and C.
The raw -water source was a creek,
which drained a watershed of about 7 sq
mi. The intake was at a small diversion
dam near the treatment plant. Annual
water temperatures ranged from <4°C
to between 15 and 20°C. Water in the
creek at the plant intake was soft, with
low alkalinity and total dissolved solids
and neutral pH.
The treatment plant employed dual -
media filtration with addition of polymer
as a filter aid. It was considered an in-
line filtration plant, having addition of
chemicals but no mixing for coagulation
other than pipeline turbulence and no
settling prior to filtration. The plant had
four filters, each with two independent
cells (Figure 6). The filters were in
closed, horizontal, cylindrical steel tanks,
6 ft in diameter by 24 ft long. Filter
media included 9 in. anthracite, 0.6-0.8
mm es, 1.85 uc; 12 in. sand, 0.45-0.55
mm es, 1.45-1.55 uc; 6 in. fine gravel; 9
in. medium gravel; and 6 in. coarse
gravel. The plant could operate under
gravity feed or under pressure from
parallel 1,900-gpm centrifugal pumps.
Plant capacity under gravity flow was
from 2.0 to 2.6 mgd (1,400 to 1,800 gpm).
Design capacity with pumping was 4.0
mgd (2,800 gpm), corresponding to a
filtration rate of 5.3 gpm/sq ft. The
listed nominal filtration rate was 3.75
gpm/sq ft, corresponding to a total plant
capacity of about 2.8 mgd (2,000 gpm).
Plant operation. Raw water flowed
in an open channel from the diversion
dam to a screen chamber, then by pipe to
the plant, for gravity or pressure filtra-
tion. The pumps were used primarily
during peak demand in the summer. A
cationic liquid polymer* was pumped
into the filter supply line about 20 ft
upstream of the filters. The polymer
concentration used was 0.25-0.5 mg/L.
The only mixing was from turbulence in
the filter face piping.
During the winter, when the total
water demand averaged 200 gpm, only
two filters were used with gravity feed.
Two filters operating in this mode
produced about 800 gpm. Thus, the
plant operated in off and on cycles con-
trolled by switches that sensed the water
level in the finished -water reservoir.
With a 200-gpm demand, the plant
operating cycle was about 1 h on and 4 h
off , or about five complete cycles per day.
When the demand exceeded 800 gpm, all
filters were operated by gravity until
pumped flow was required. Regardless
of the number of filters in operation or of
the operating mode, the production was
matched to demand by the level controls
in the distribution reservoir. The filters
under gravity flow were essentially op-
erated with constant head and declining
rate. When operating under pump pres-
sure, the mode was increasing head,
declining rate. As head loss across the
filters increased, increased pumping
head decreased output as dictated by the
pump's head -discharge curve. The fil-
tered water flowed by gravity to the
finished -water distribution reservoir.
Filters were backwashed once a week
during low -use periods and about once
every four days during high -use periods.
08102, Naloo Chemical Co., Oak Brook, III.
90 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
0.5
Raw water
0.4
0.3
Filtered water
0.2
1
0.1 �►-1.�1ww....`-- `Z� r-�•-.�-�
Flail backwsSh Backwash Backwash
0.0
6/3 6/4 615 6/6 6/7 618 819 6/10 6/11 6/12 6/13 W14
Date -1865
Figure 7. Raw- and filtered -water turbidities for full-scale plant in community B,
June 3-14, 1985
The backwash cycle was actuated
manually, and backwashing was carried
out by a preset, timed sequence of
automatic valve manipulation. The two
cells of an individual filter were back -
washed separately, in sequence. Back -
washing of filters was usually staggered,
i.e., on different days, to maintain
production continuity. Backwashing of
an individual filter cell took about 6 min.
When a newly backwashed filter was
returned to service, filtered water was
wasted for 5 min. This was controlled
automatically.
Plant performance. Field work was
conducted from June 1 through June 14,
1985. Water temperature during the
study ranged from 12°C at night to 17°C
in the afternoons.
According to plant records, raw -water
turbidity was typically low, averaging
<0.5 ntu annually. Recorded peak tur-
bidity was as high as 10 ntu. Filtered -
water turbidity varied with the raw -
water turbidity, averaging between 0.1
and 0.2 ntu. Turbidity removal efficiency
ranged between 50 and 70 percent. This
study was conducted during a period of
low runoff and low raw -water turbidity.
Total water production from June 6 to
14 was 1.1 x 106 gpd. Thus, the average
production over this period was about
800 gpm on a continuous basis. However,
with the plant operating in pumped -
pressure mode using all four filters, the
production rate was measured at about
1,900 gpm. This means that the plant
averaged just over 13 h of production per
day from June 6 to 14. In fact, the
production period increased gradually
from a minimum of about 4 h June 6 to a
maximum of 14.5 h June 13-14. The
plant production cycle during the study
period was typically alternating on and
off periods of approximately equal length
ranging from about 0.5 to 2 h, resulting
in 8 to 12 cycles per day. The cycling
frequency was strictly a function of the
plant production rate, storage tank
volume between the high and low float -
switch elevations, and water demand.
Plant performance during the study was
indicated by the record of raw- and
filtered -water turbidities (Figure 7).
Raw -water turbidity averaged about 0.3
ntu with brief periods as low as 0.2 ntu
and as high as 0.4 ntu. The turbidity of
filtered water averaged about 0.09 ntu
with little variation other than that
associated with backwash. Turbidity
removal efficiency was consistently
about 70 percent except for lower re-
movals observed immediately following
backwash (Figure 8).
Analysis for Giardia cysts was con-
ducted on 18 samples from the plant, 5 of
raw water and 13 of filtered water. Cysts
were found in 3 of the 5 raw -water
samples and in 7 of the 13 filtered -water
samples. Based on a recovery efficiency
of 20 percent, raw -water cyst concen-
trations were uniformly about 0.3 cyst/L,
and filtered -water cyst concentrations
were between 0.03 and 0.07 cyst/L. In a
set of four effluent samples taken at 15 -
min intervals immediately following
backwash, the cyst concentration de-
creased from 0.9/1, to 0.5/1, to 0.1/L to
0/L. No cysts were found in a second set
of samples from the preceding backwash
period.
The concentration of cyst -size particles
found in the raw water ranged from
about 250 to 500/mL (x = 362, s =126, n =
5). Filtered -water particle concentrations
ranged from about 40 to 240/mL (x =110,
s = 52, n =14). The removal efficiency of
cyst -size particles calculated from paired
values of raw and filtered water ranged
from about 50 to 90 percent (x = 64
percent, s = 34 percent, n = 6). Based on
the limited number of observations made,
100
60
40
20
1= 0 6/4 6/5 6/6 6/7 8/5 6/9 6/10 8/116112 6/13 8/14
Date -1985
Figure S. Turbidity removal perfor-
mance for full-scale plant in commu-
nity B
the concentrations of cyst -size particles
in raw and filtered water appeared closely
related to corresponding turbidity mea-
surements (Figure 9). The removal effi-
ciency for cyst -size particles, which
averaged 64 percent, was comparable to
the observed turbidity removal effi-
ciency, which averaged about 70 percent.
Pilot plant. Pilot -plant piping and
control connections were madeJune 1-3.
Following polymer addition, pressurized
raw water was piped directly to pilot
filter 2. Raw water for pilot filter 1 was
taken upstream of polymer addition.
New filter media were installed to match
those of the full-scale filters. The eleva-
tion of the filter media surface in the
pilot filters was within a few inches of
the full-scale plant media surface. Power
for operating the cyst feed and supple-
mental chemical feed pumps was taken
from the raw -water supply pump control
circuit of the full-scale plant. Accord-
ingly, pilot -plant flow cycling was closely
matched to that of the full-scale filters.
Flow through the pilot filters began June
3, accompanied by continuous turbidity
monitoring. Pilot filter 2 was operated as
a model of the full-scale plant throughout
the study. Pilot filter 1 was used for
testing chemical -conditioning schemes.
The flow rate used for each pilot filter
was 0.7 gpm, corresponding to the full-
scale plant's filtration rate of 3.5 gpm/sq
ft. Pilot filter 2 was backwashed manu-
ally for 6 min at the same time that the
full-scale plant filters were backwashed.
Pilot filter 1 was backwashed as needed.
Raw -water turbidities for the full-scale
plant and the two pilot filters were
identical. The filtered -water turbidity of
pilot filter 2 decreased continuously over
the period of observation from about 0.2
ntu to 0.13 ntu (Figure 10). Performance
was not as good as that of the full-scale
plant (Figure 8). This was likely a result
JUNE 1990 JERRY E. ONGERTH 91
0 Fall -scale plant 0 6
O Pilot plant 2
• Pilot plant 1
0.4 0.4
0 0 Influent
c 0.3 • 000 ? 0.3
ILI Raw water Pilot titter 1 i
9 ---------------------------
0.2 Filtered water 0.2 r "'•
0.1 0% O 0.1 • pilot titter 2 Nalco
titaQatfloc 6330
O O 6102 2cow
33
0.0 0.0
0 100 200 300 400 600 6/3 6/4 6/6 8/6 6n hie Gro 6/10 8/11 6/12 6/13 W14
Cyst-St:e Particles—number/mL
Figure 9. Relationship between cyst- °at' -'sem
size particles and turbidity in com- Figure 10. Raw- and filtered -water turbidities for pilot filters in community B,
munity B June 3-14, 1985
of the use of new filter media in the pilot
plant.
Giardia cysts were fed continuously
to pilot filter 1 and pilot filter 2 at
concentrations ranging from 200 to 500
cysts/L. A total of 38 samples, including
5 positive and negative controls, was
collected from both of the pilot filters
and then analyzed to determine Giardia
cyst concentrations. Some problems were
experienced with cyst breakup (i.e.,
fragmentation). Based on hemacytometer
counts, the cyst feed concentration
should have been between 1,000 and
2,500 cysts/mL. Upon analysis of positive
controls, only approximately 10 percent
of the expected concentration of whole,
intact cysts was found. Estimates of the
total number of cysts recovered based on
cyst fragments found were comparable
to the expected number of cysts. The
fragmentation of cysts, however, should
have affected filter influent and effluent
concentrations similarly. In fact, frag-
mentation might be expected to bias the
effluent samples to the low side more
than the influent samples, tending to
overestimate cyst removal. With this in
mind, the influent and effluent cyst
concentrations for the seeded pilot plant
are summarized in Table 4.
Cyst removal efficiency observed for
pilot filter 2 was relatively low, averaging
64 percent (s = 24, n = 4) for four samples
not taken immediately following back-
wash. Cyst removal observed for pilot
filter 1 was significantly higher than for
pilot filter 2. The average removal,
including three samples taken imme-
diately following backwash, was 79.5
percent (s = 28.6, n =11). Excluding the
three low postbackwash removal values,
the average cyst removal in the filter
subjected to additional chemical condi-
tioning was 93.6 percent (s = 6.3, n = 8).
As was observed in samples collected in
the full-scale treatment plant, cyst pas-
sage to the finished water appeared
greater in the initial 30-60 min following
filter backwash.
Chemical conditioning. Several
chemical conditioning combinations
were used, with various dosages of alum
and cationic polymers. Flash mixing of
the chemical coagulants was provided in
pilot plant 1, but no flocculation. Using
between 10 and 16 mg alum/L in com-
bination with the polymer used in the
full-scale plant produced filtered -water
turbidity of 0.06-0.20 ntu (Figure 10).
Use of polymers (at 0.3 mg/L) did not
produce finished water significantly
different from the current plant treat-
ment. When alum was used as the
coagulant for pilot filter 1, cyst removal
was higher than with the polymer
treatment scheme used at the full-scale
plant and duplicated in pilot filter 2.
Sanitary survey. The sanitary survey
of the watershed and treatment facility
identified features that are pertinent to
the potential presence of Giardia cysts
in the raw water and to the potential for
cyst carryover into the filtered water.
The watershed is attractive and heav-
ily used for outdoor recreation. The
habitat throughout the watershed is
suitable for a wide range of wildlife.
Near the center of the watershed, the
creek passes through a 100+ -acre marsh
where there is evidence of beaver.
The plant does not have a full-time
operator but receives careful attention
on a daily basis. Three features of the
plant's design and operation were iden-
tified as contributing to potential cyst
passage: (1) The on and off cycling of
filter operation imposes hydraulic shocks
from 8 to 12 times per day or 50 to 75
times between backwashings; (2) the
filters are completely enclosed, prevent-
ing routine observation of media condi-
tion, particularly during backwashing;
and (3) the physical design provides
neither flash mixing nor coagulation,
thus drastically limiting flexibility for
chemical conditioning. Upon inspection
of the medium in one filter through an
access hatch, it appeared to be clean and
in good condition, both on and below the
surface.
Community C. Physical characteristics
of plant. Community C was a ski resort
about 50 mi east of Tacoma, Wash. Peak
water demand, on winter weekends,
was about 85,000 gpd (60 gpm). Winter
weekday and summer usage was <1,000
gpd. The raw -water sources were two
small creeks that drain adjacent steep
mountainsides.
Community C had a 0.085-mgd (60-
gpm) DE filtration plant. Principal com-
ponents of the plant include a flowmeter,
precoat-body feed tank, pressure filter,
turbidimeter, automatic control system,
and associated pumps, valves, and piping
(Figure 11). The filter had a surface area
of 60 sq ft and operated at a nominal rate
of 1 gpm/sq ft. Filtered water flowed into
two 50,000 -gal steel tanks.
Plant operation. Water production
was controlled by level sensors in the
finished -water tanks. When the tanks
were full, a 10-gpm recirculation pump
was started and water was recirculated
through the filter to prevent loss of filter
cake from the filter leaves. The end of a
filter cycle was determined by the head
loss across the diatomite cake. Cycles
were as short as a day during peak -
demand or high -turbidity periods but
could be as long as two or more weeks
when demand was low. Cleaning re-
quired plant shutdown and removal of
the filter cake by automatic and manual
operations. Visual inspection of the
septum to ascertain completeness of cake
release was not practical because of the
configuration of the filter (Figure 11)
and the confined stacked septum ar-
rangement. A new cycle was initiated by
pumping a DE slurry through the filter
to deposit a precoat cake of about 0.2
lb/sq ft of filter area.
92 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
After the precoat was applied, normal
)peration began. The precoat-body feed
tank was refilled, and DE for body feed
was added. Flow to the filter was started
along with the body feed pump to provide
20 mg/L of diatomite in the raw water.
The filter operated continuously until
the filter cycle was terminated for clean-
ing. A brief (about 1-2 s) pressure transi-
tion occurred when the operating mode
changed from normal filtration to recir-
culation and again when normal fil-
tration was reinitiated.
Performance of full-scale and pilot
plants. Field investigations were con-
ducted from May 20 to 24 and from July
29 to Aug. 2,1985. The field investigation
was planned for a single week. The
second week was scheduled after an
interruption in the supply line made it
impossible to operate the main plant at
design capacity.
Limited observations of the full-scale
plant and of the pilot filter, operated in
parallel with the full-scale plant, were
made on May 23 and 24. Raw -water
turbidity varied from 1.3 to 2.8 ntu, and
the filtered -water turbidity of the full-
scale plant varied from 0.33 to 0.5 ntu.
Both decreased between successive mea-
surements made on May 23 and 24. No
Giardia cysts were found in a single 11 -
gal raw -water sample or in two 50 -gal
filtered -water samples taken in this
period from the full-scale plant.
Using 0.2 lb/sq ft of precoat* and 20
mg/L of body feed, the pilot filter was
operated at a flow rate of 1 gpm/sq ft for
24 h. Cyst addition was then initiated at
a rate of 6,800/gal. During the first 6 h,
the turbidity removal increased from 60
to 75 percent (Figure 12). In three suc-
cessive samples of the pilot filter effluent,
concentrations of 14,18, and 23 cysts/gal
were found. These concentrations cor-
respond to about 99.7 percent cyst re-
moval. Observations were terminated at
this point because the raw -water supply
was interrupted.
The full-scale plant and the pilot filter
were monitored again between July 29
and August 2. During this period water
use was at a very low level, so the full-
scale plant was operating in recirculating
mode for all but brief periods. The raw -
water turbidity, which was recorded
continuously between July 31 and August
2, varied between 0.1 and 0.2 ntu except
for peaks of 0.6-0.7 ntu corresponding to
periods of rainfall. During two brief
periods of normal filtration by the full-
scale plant, raw -water and filtered -water
turbidity were, respectively, 0.22 and
0.06 ntu or 73 percent removal, and 0.12
and 0.05 ntu or 58 percent removal.
During the latter period, a 90 -gal sample
of raw water and 120 gal of the full-scale
plant filtered water were processed for
Giardia cysts. Cysts were present in
both samples, corresponding to a con-
centration of 0.13 cyst/gal in the raw
water and 0.02 cyst/gal in the filtered
water.
Filtered -water turbidity observed dur-
ing operation of the pilot filter between
July 31 and August 2 was typically
0.03-0.06 ntu. Higher turbidity was
observed in the filtered water during the
initial period of filtration following
completion of the precoat. The concentra-
tion of cysts in filtered water from the
pilot unit appeared higher during the
initial filtration period.
The concentration of cyst -size particles
in the raw -water samples ranged from
about 260 to 1,600/mL. Corresponding
filtered -water particle concentrations
ranged from about 180 to 550/mL. Based
on the limited observations made, the
concentration of cyst -size particles ap-
pear closely related to turbidity. The
removal efficiencies of turbidity and
cyst -size particles were more closely
related than was observed during the
study at community A.
Sanitarysurvey. The sanitary survey
of the watersheds and treatment plant
indicated conditions conducive to the
presence of Giardia cysts in the raw
water and the potential for passage of
cysts or cyst -size particles into the fin-
ished water.
The watersheds, two small basins of
about 100 and 300 acres, are alpine in
character, partially forested with fir and
hemlock, with a partially grassy mead-
ow. The habitat is suited principally for
small mammals and rodents. Deer and
elk may be present in midsummer
months. The watersheds are readily
accessible to humans in both summer
and winter.
Two features of the plant may have
contributed to cyst passage. First, the
plant did not use a filter -to -waste cycle.
This presented a limited opportunity for
cyst passage in the initial volume of
water in the treatment system after a
new filtration cycle was initiated. The
second potential for cyst passage was
associated with the transitions between
normal filtration mode and low -demand
recirculation mode.
Discussion
Giardia cyst removal. Giardia cyst re-
moval efficiencies for the two granular
media filtration plants were calculated
to be between 70 and 90 percent. A
reduction in cyst concentration of ap-
proximately one log is significantly less
than reported by others. Previous pilot
studies using waters of differing char-
acteristics with a range of coagulant
dosages, mixing intensities, and floccu-
lation conditions have achieved cyst
removal efficiencies between 99 percent
(two logs) and 99.9 percent (three
logs).4.7.17These studies have shown that
with in-line filtration, direct filtration,
and conventional treatment, coagulant
selection and dosage can affect cyst
removal by one log or more. The cor-
respondence of cyst removal efficiencies
observed in this study between full-scale
and pilot filters, and the significantly
higher cyst removal efficiencies observed
in pilot filters operated with optimized
chemical conditioning were similar to
the observations of others. Thus, it is
confirmed that effective chemical condi-
tioning increases cyst removal efficiency
by at least one order of magnitude.
It is also clear from observations at the
community A and B plants that filtered -
water turbidity is a useful parameter for
estimating cyst removal only if water is
properly chemically conditioned. Al-
though the filtered -water turbidity at
both plants was consistently 0.1 ntu or
less, Giardia cysts were found in more
than half of the filtered -water samples.
This is consistent with the observations
of Al -Ani et al,"' with low -turbidity water
like that in this study, indicating that
cyst removal efficiency depends on tur-
bidity reduction.
The irrelevance of filtered -water tur-
bidity by itself as a parameter useful in
controlling filtration for removal of
Giardia cysts is not understood by some
water treatment operators and regula-
tory agencies. The relatively low turbid-
ity of filtered waterin community A was
the initial basis for not using chemical
coagulation. It was also the basis for not
exploring other potentially more effec-
tive chemical combinations and seasonal
adjustments at community B. Clearly,
optimization of chemical conditioning,
with seasonal adjustments correspond-
ing to changes in water quality and
temperature, is an essential feature of
making effective use of the capital
invested in water treatment hardware.
Filter operating conditions. The variation
in and control of filtration rate are major
aspects of filter operation, with the
potential for a significant impact on
Giardia cyst removal. The adverse effects
of variations in filtration rate on filter
performance are well documented.12
Increased passage of Giardia cysts
through filters in response to changes in
filtration rate has been documented in
previous pilot studies.4.10 In this study,
data on cyst concentration and turbidity
in the filter effluent were examined to
assess the potential effects of changes in
filtration rate, which were significant
features of the operation at each of the
treatment plants.
Two major factors contributed to flow
rate changes at the community A plant:
(1) the on-off cycles (5 to 8 per day or 30
to 50 between backwashing) used to
match plant production to reservoir
capacity and system demand, and (2)
filtration rate control by a throttling
valve on the filter effluent line regulated
by a float on the water surface above the
"Hyflo Super -Cel. JM Corp.. Denver. Colts.
JUNE 19% JERRY E. ONGERTH 93
filter. During filtration, the head on the
filter fluctuated (cycled continuously)
over a 2- to 3 -in. range within a period of
about 10 min.
At community B, three factors con-
tributed to flow rate changes: (1) the
on-off cycles (8 to 12 per day or 50 to 75
between backwashing) used to match
plant production to system demand and
storage capacity, (2) declining filtration
rate with no automatic filtration rate
control, and (3) variations caused by the
conditions of discharge from the filters
to the finished -water reservoir. Dis-
charge from the filters is restricted,
depending on the water surface elevation
in the reservoir. The effect is significant,
reducing filter output into a nearly full
reservoir by more than 20 percent. These
changes are slow, however, occurring
over a period of hours and are much less
detrimental than rapid changes.
At community C, three factors con-
tributed to changes in filtration rate: (1)
alternation between filter production and
recycle modes, required to match pro-
duction to storage and demand and to
retain the filter cake on the septum; (2)
declining -rate, constant -head filtration
in production mode, and (3) discharge
against the variable water surface eleva-
tion of the finished -water reservoir.
An examination of the filtered -water
turbidity record for each plant showed
that during the initial period of a filter
production cycle between backwashes
(i.e., the initial period of filtration follow-
ing restarting without backwashing),
only slight changes resulted. Giardia
cyst analyses of samples corresponding
to filter restart periods were positive in
most cases, but cyst concentrations were
not distinguishable from those in other
filtration periods. The lack of clear indi-
cations of adverse effects on performance
of the unquestionably troublesome op-
erating conditions may reflect the gen-
erally poor to mediocre performance.
Previous work clearly shows the
adverse effect of flow rate changes on
the release of accumulated particles from
a filter. Cleasby et al lz have demonstrated
that the balance between forces tending
to retain particles in a filter and those
tending to dislodge particles is delicate
and easily tipped in favor of the dislodg-
ing, contributing to particle migration
through the filter. Further, they de-
scribed the magnitude of the effects
resulting from changes in filtration rate
as directly proportional to the magnitude
of the change and its abruptness.
In this study, the limited evidence of
adverse performance resulting from
severe changes in flow rate can most
likely be attributed to the low turbidity
of the raw waters and to the relatively
small amount of solids accumulated in
the filters. The consistent appearance of
Giardia cysts in the filtered water can be
interpreted, at least in part, as evidence
teQAMV rslre 4—Body food pump
S—ptmal tNd pump
6—Reotrculatlon pump
7—Alr rent
6 -Filter vasal
9—Finished-water tim
t0—Dtstrlbutlon reservoir
Figure ii. Schematic diagram and hydraulic profile of community C's full-scale
treatment plant
of a flow rate change effect, and can
possibly also be attributed to poor or no
coagulation. In this study, the removal
efficiency of cyst -size particles was
relatively low compared with that re-
ported by others.4•10 This may also be
due, at least in part, to flow change
conditions imposed on each of the plants
in this study, as well as to the water -
conditioning practices.
Filter backwashing. Effects of filter
backwash practices on treatment per-
formance are apparent in data on treat-
ment performance (turbidity, particle
counts, and cyst concentrations) and in
visual observations. (This discussion
does not apply to the DE filter at com-
munity C.) Conditions for effective
cleaning of the filter media through
backwashing were least favorable at
community A, where backwash was
carried out on a preset time cycle, oc-
curring strictly as a function of head loss
and without the operator present for
observation. The author observed that
the backwash water was still visibly
turbid at the end of the pretimed back-
wash cycle. This is illustrated by the
record of turbidity in filtered water
immediately following backwash (Figure
3). Not only was the turbidity elevated in
this period, but the break-in period was
unusually long, undoubtedly due in part
to the lack of chemical conditioning. The
absence of more severe effects from poor
backwashing on media condition at
community A is likely due to the lack of
chemical conditioning and to the low
turbidity of the raw water. Without
conditioning chemicals, particle accumu-
lation in the filter depends entirely on
natural interparticle forces and biological
activity. The filter bed can, in a way, be
seen as an extension of the stream bed.
Inspection of the filter media at commu-
nity A, in fact, revealed attached aquatic
organisms more characteristic of slow
sand filter conditions.
Observations at community B indi-
cated more normal operating conditions.
The media had a clean, uncoated ap-
pearance. Backwashing was conducted
with an operator present to observe the
clarity of the spent backwash water as it
was discharged into the disposal pond.
The condition of the media, however,
cannot be monitored routinely because
of the enclosed pressure -vessel filters.
Filter -to -waste practice. In this study,
only community B practiced filter to
waste and only for 5 min. As data from
the pilot filter show, this is far too short.
Because Giardia cysts are resistant to
disinfection, filtering to waste is par-
ticularly important to maximize cyst
removal by filtration.
Turbidity records for filtered water at
the community A and B plants and from
the pilot filter at community C show
that the period of elevated turbidity
extends over the first hour of filtration
following backwash. Concentrations of
Giardia cysts found in filtered water at
each plant were highest during the initial
15 min of filtration following backwash.
Elevated cyst concentrations in samples
from the unconditioned or less than
optimally conditioned full-scale or pilot
filter runs extended for as much as an
hour after filter run initiation. In pilot -
filter runs with optimal conditioning,
the filter break-in period was reduced
94 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
PM tun stat at 1:40 p.m.. lst reading at 1:45 pm.
1.5 Raw want-� .10,000
I �
1.0 � r
I I 1.000
I I a
i I
Start Terminate is
I �
0.5 ° '0 +meter turefdity I 100
I °\o
0 I 10
1200 1400 1500 1500 2000 2M
Time of Day
Figure 12. Turbidity and Giardia cyst removal by pilot diatomaceous earth filter
in community C, May 24, 1985
significantly. In pilot -filter runs at
community C, higher cyst concentrations
were found in samples taken in the
initial 15 min of filter operation than in
later samples (Figure 12). Too few sam-
ples were taken from the full-scale plant
in community C to determine whether
its characteristics might be similar.
The observations presented here
clearly indicate the potential for passage
of Giardia cysts through filters of various
types and operating characteristics dur-
ing the initial period of filtration follow-
ing backwash. The period of higher
potential cyst passage can be as long as
an hour in filters operating without
chemical conditioning or with poorly
optimized chemical conditioning. This
emphasizes the need for a filter -to -waste
period in which Giardia are likely to be
present in the raw water. It also high-
lights the importance of effective chem-
ical conditioning if the filter -to -waste
period is to be of a practical duration,
e.g., 15 min as opposed to 1 h.
Other design considerations. The filter
media design, the raw -water turbidity,
and the chemical conditioning scheme
are important factors in determining the
particle storage capacity of a filter, the
turbidity reduction capability, the rate
of head loss accumulation, character-
istics of the filter relative to turbidity
breakthrough, and terminal head loss.
The community A plant had 18 in. of
0.9 -mm coal over 16 in. of sand, including
10 in. of 0.5 -mm, 3 in. of 1 -mm, and 3 in.
of 2 -mm sand. The community B plant
had 9 in. of 0.7 -mm coal over 12 in. of
0.5 -mm sand. In previous work, Cleasby
et all!' observed that in comparison with
filters used by Tate"" containing 20 in. of
1.1 -mm coal and 20 in. of 0.5 -mm sand,
their pilot filters containing 14 in. of 1.4 -
mm coal over 20 in. of 0.5 -mm sand
exhibited one log removal fewer cyst -
size particles than those of Tate 0.5 log
versus 2.5 log removal).
Studies of Giardia cyst removal in
pilot -scale in-line filters, reported by Al -
Anil" and by Mosher,t% were conducted
using a media design consisting of 22 in.
of 1.0 -mm coal over 10 in. of 0.5 -mm
sand. This relatively conservative de-
sign, in conjunction with effective chem-
ical conditioning, contributed to the
observed 2+ log cyst reduction efficiency
corresponding to periods of effective (>90
percent) turbidity reduction. In compar-
ison, the community B filter medium is
relatively shallow although the coal size
is smaller in partial compensation. Media
design at communities A and B may
have contributed to the observed per-
formance characteristics. The number
of major factors affecting performance
at those plants, however, make it vir-
tually impossible to determine the rela-
tive importance of each.
Other design factors at one or more of
the plants that may have contributed to
cyst passage into the filtered water
include (1) a common wall separating
raw (or spent backwash) and filtered
water, and (2) the potential for contam-
ination of the finished water in the
clearwell by sanitary wastes or surface
runoff. Furthermore, at the community
C plant, the lack of redundancy in design
and the possibility of power failure dur-
ing periods of demand present the po-
tential for direct bypassing of the plant.
Other operating factors. At community
A, the operations staff was one person—
responsible not only for the plant but for
all other aspects of water system opera-
tions and maintenance, including the
dam, reservoir, chlorination, pumps,
wells, distribution system, and refuse
collection. Time available for plant
maintenance and operation was limited
to about 30 min twice a day. The obvious
conclusion is simply that it is not
reasonable to expect a community of this
size and character to provide the level of
operator skill, training, and attention
required to assure consistently effective
performance of a conventional treat-
ment plant. Accordingly, an alternative
means of providing water of suitable
quality should have been selected. This
is the logical responsibility of the de-
signer and of the regulatory agency (and
the community).
Giardia cysts in source water. Giardia
cysts were found in the raw water at
each treatment plant, with concentra-
tions ranging from 0.13 to 0.3 cyst/L.
These concentrations are comparable to
cyst concentrations found in other simi-
lar water sources elsewhere in the
Cascade and Sierra Nevada mountains."'
The three watersheds had distinctly
different physical features but each was
typical in its own way of broad areas of
western mountain watersheds. The cyst
concentrations found do not appear to be
unique. The presence of cysts in Cali-
fornia mountain watersheds has been
reported by Riggs"i and Suk."" Cyst con-
centrations are likely to be significantly
lower than in streams below domestic
wastewater discharges, which typically
have relatively high concentrations of
Giardia cysts.2324 In fact, cyst concen-
trations reported for the Youghiogheny
River in northern West Virginia and
southwestern Pennsylvania, influenced
by upstream secondary treatment plant
effluents, ranged from 0.03 to 12/L,
assuming 10 percent recovery.
It appears prudent to expect Giardia
cysts to be present in even relatively
remote water sources. Accordingly,
source -related factors can be identified
that may be of significance to water
treatability and to minimizing cyst
concentrations in filtered water. Cysts
originate in fecal material at high con-
centrations, about 106/g.2, From the
assumption that cysts may enter a
stream in fresh feces, it follows that a
small steep watershed with an unim-
pounded in -stream diversion, as at
community C, has the potential for con-
veying water with the highest (though
more likely short-term) cyst concentra-
tions to the treatment plant. Impound-
ments, increasing tributary area, and
increasing stream flow rate would all be
expected to favor lower and more uniform
cyst concentrations. However, in some
locations impoundments might provide
JUNE 1990 JERRY E. ONGERTH 95
more habitats for beaver and muskrat
and lead to more cysts.
Conclusions
• Giardia cyst contamination is likely
to be appreciable even in relatively re-
mote, high-quality raw -water sources.
Accordingly, water treatment processes
should be operated to provide effective
cyst removal at all times. Special atten-
tion must be given to chemical pretreat-
ment for granular rapid sand filters.
• The effectiveness of casually oper-
ated filtration processes for removing
Giardia cysts is relatively poor and is
approximately equal to the turbidity
reduction efficiency. Thus, when treat-
ing raw water with naturally low tur-
bidity, <1 ntu for example, simply
meeting the often -used turbidity goal of
0.5 ntu will not ensure effective cyst
removal. Operators, design engineers,
and state regulatory agencies must
understand and deal with this. Man-
agement philosophy should be to produce
drinking water with the lowest attain-
able turbidity.
• Giardia cyst removal by filtration
of well -conditioned water resulting in 90
percent or better turbidity reduction
will produce effective cyst removal of 99
percent or more. Accordingly, monitoring
water -quality conditions and adjusting
chemical conditioning to maintain op-
timal coagulation are essential to con-
sistent cyst control.
0 Where turbidity reduction efficiency
is <90 percent, Giardia cyst concentra-
tions are likely to be relatively high in
the filtered water produced immediately
following backwash. This condition may
persist for up to an hour. In well -condi-
tioned waters, the period will be shorter.
Accordingly, an appropriate period of
filtering to waste or other procedures
such as preconditioning backwash water
or gradually increasing filtration rates
from zero to the normal operating value
should be considered.
• Changes in flow rate, particularly
the practice of using on-off cycling
between backwashings, should be
avoided to reduce the potential for the
passage of cysts into filtered water.
• It is unrealistic to expect poorly
trained part-time plant operators to be
able to maintain the optimum chemical
conditioning required to assure con-
sistently effective Giardia cyst removal
in small, relatively inflexible water
treatment plants.
• If small plants are unable to achieve
performance levels described in this
study to ensure cyst removal, super -
chlorination with prolonged contact
times or another equally effective disin-
fection procedure may be necessary as a
short-term measure. Ultimately, such
plants need improved operation.
• Diatomaceous earth plants must
recirculate (during periods of nonpro-
duction) to keep the media on the septum.
Given the control problems facing small
rapid sand plants (to match production
to use) and the problem of dislodging
accumulated particles if the filters are
turned repeatedly off and on between
backwashes, it might be advantageous
to recirculate in these plants to maintain
flow conditions.
Acknowledgment
This study was funded in part by the
AWWARF with participation by the
University of Washington, the California
Department of Health Services, and the
Seattle Water Department. The assis-
tance of Henry J. Ongerth in preparation
of the final manuscript was indis-
pensable. Successful completion of the
project would not have been possible
without the skillful work of Joegir
Engeset in operating the pilot plant and
of Lynn Salter in preparation of the
manuscript. The contributions of com-
munities A, B, and C through their
respective representatives, Jim Bogart,
Harvey West Jr., and Greg Durban, made
the project possible.
References
1. KIRNER, J.C.; LITTLER, J.D.; & ANGELO,
L.A. A Waterborne Outbreak of Giardiasis
in Camas, Washington. Jour. AWWA,
70:1:35 Oan.1978).
2. LIPPY. E.C. Tracing Giardiasis Outbreak
at Berlin, New Hampshire. Jour. A WWA,
70:9:512 (Sept. 1978).
3. NAVIN, T.R. ET AL. Case -Control Study of
Waterborne Giardiasis in Reno, Nevada.
AmcricanJorrrnal Epidemiolony, 122:2:269
(1985).
4. LOGSDON, G.S. ET Al.. Alternative Filtra-
tion Methods for Removal of Giardia
Cysts and Cyst Models. Jour. AWWA,
73:2:111 (Feb. 1981).
5. BFI.I.AMY, W.D. FT AI.. Removing Giardia
Cysts With Slow Sand Filtration. Jour.
AWWA, 77:2:52 (Feb. 1985).
6. CLEASBY, J.L.; HILMoI;, D.J.; & DIMITRA-
coPoULos, CJ. Slow Sand and Direct In-
line Filtration of a Surface Water. Jour.
AWWA, 76:12:44 (Dec. 1984).
7. PYPF.R, G.R. Slow Sand Filter and Package
Treatment Plant Evaluation Operating
Costs and Removal of Bacteria, Giardia,
and Trihalomethanes. Proj. Rept., Coop.
Agreement CR809284010. Drinking Wa-
ter Res. Lab., USEPA, Cincinnati, Ohio
(1985).
8. DFWAu.F, F.B.; ENGESET.J-; & LAWRENCE.
W. Removal of Giardia lamblia Cysts by
Drinking Water Treatment Plants. Proj.
Rept., Grant R806127. Drinking Water
Res. Div., USEPA, Cincinnati, Ohio
(1982).
9. LANGE, K.P. ET AL. Diatomaceous Earth
Filtration of Giardia Cysts and Other
Substances. Jour. AWWA, 78:1:76 (Jan.
1986)
10. ENGESET, J. & DEWALLE, F.B. Removal of
Giardia lamblia Cysts by Flocculation
and Filtration. Proc. 1979 AWWA Ann.
Conf., AWWA, Denver, Colo. (1979).
11. Committee Report. The Status of Direct
Filtration. Jour. AWWA, 72:7:405 (July
1980).
12. CLEASBY, J.L.; WILLIAMSON, M.
BAUMANN, E.R. Effect of Rate ChangK---"
Filtered -Water Quality. Jour. AWN,
55:7:880 (July 1963).
13. AMIRTHARAJAH, A. & WFTSTF.IN, D.P. Int.
tial Degradation of Effluent Quality Dur-'.
ing Filtration. Jour. AWWA, 72:9:518
( Sept. 1980).
14. SFFLAUS. T.J.; HF.NDRICKs, D.W.; & JAN.
ONIS, B.A. Design and Operation of a
Slow Sand Filter. Jour. A WWA, 78:12:35
( Dec. 1986).
15. LUcH•rEl., D.L.; LAWRENCE. W.P.; & DF-
WAI.I.F, F.B. Electron Microscopy of
Giardia lamblia Cysts. Appl. Envir.
Microbio!., 40:4:821 (1980).
16. RIGGs, J.L. Use of Immunofluorescence
for Detection of Giardia lamblia Cysts
00*centrated From Drinking Water.
Final Proj. Rept. Contract 52-83.
AWWARF, Denver. Colo. (1985).
17. MOSHER, R.R. & HENDRICKS, D.W. Rapid
Rate Filtration of Low -Turbidity Water
Using Field -Scale Pilot Filters. Jour.
A WWA, 78:12:42 (Dec. 1986).
18. AL -ANI, M.Y. ET AL. Removing Giardia
Cysts From Low -Turbidity Waters by
Rapid Rate Filtration. Jour. AWWA,
78:5:66 (May 1986).
19. CLEASBY, J.L. ET AL. Effective Filtration
Methods for Small Water Supplies. Coop.
Agreement CR808837-01-0 Proj. Rept.
Drinking Water Res. Div., USEPA,
Cincinnati, Ohio (1984).
20. TATE, C.H.; LANG, J.S.; & HUTCHINSON,
H.L. Pilot -Plant Tests of Direct Filtra-
tion. Jour. AWWA, 69:7:379 (July 1972).
21. ONGERTH, J.E. Giardia Cyst Concentra-
tions in River Water. Jour. AWWA,
81:9:81 (Sept. 1989).
22. SUK, TJ.; RIGGS, J.L; & NELSON, B.C.
Water Contamination With Giardia in
Back -Country Areas. Proc. Natl. Wil-
derness Res. Conf.: Current Res. Forest
Service, USDA, S. Tahoe, Calif. (1986).
23. Fox, C J. & FITZGERALD, P.R. Presence of
Giardia lamblia Cysts in Sewage and
Sewage Sludges From the Chicago Area.
Waterborne Transmission of Giardiasis
(W. Jakubowski and J.C. Hoff, editors).
USEPA, Cincinnati, Ohio. (1979).
24. SYKORA, J.L. ET AL. Monitoring of Water
and Wastewater for Giardia. Proc. 1986
WQTC, AWWA, Denver, Colo.
25. FAUBERT, G.M. ET AL. Comparative
Studies on the Pattern of Infection With
Giardia spp. in Mongolian Gerbils. Jour.
Parasitol., 69:802 (1983).
About the author:
4 Jerry E. Ongerth is
an assistant professor
in the Department of
Environmental
Health, University of
Washington, Seattle,
WA 98185. Ongerth
is a graduate of the
University of California, Berkeley (BS)
and the University of Michigan, Ann
Arbor (MS and PhD). His work has been
published by Applied and Environmental
Microbiology, Journal of Clinical Micro-
biology, American Journal of Public
Health, and Journal WPCF, as well as
JOURNAL AWWA.
96 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL AWWA
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CITY OF SEBASTIAN
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
DATE: March 22, 1993 TIME: 4:45 P.M.
CONFERENCE WITH:
[ X ] TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH: Joe McNamara of the DER
SUBJECT: Trihalomethanes (THM's)
RESUME OF CONVERSATION: Robb McClary and I called Joe from Robb's
Office. Robb explained that Mayor Powell had spoken to Mr.
McNamara. He had informed the Mayor that the City of Sebastian
could impose stricter requirements on its own water treatment
system in order to implement THM control. Robb told Joe that GDU
is still operating their system in Sebastian. Joe said that
Florida State Law images the Federal Law unless the State wants to
make the Florida law more stringent. Joe McNamara said that he
thought the counties and the cities in Florida could enact an
ordinance that was more stringent than the DER rules, especially if
they owned the treatment plants. Robb told Joe that the existing
franchise agreement the City has with General Development Utilities
states that the water quality and quantity should be in accordance
with DER Rules and Regulations. If the City now passed a new
ordinance requiring GDU to install a THM control system at their
plant, the City would violate its own franchise agreement.
Consequently, the City would most likely end up in court being sued
by GDU. Joe McNamara said that he hoped he didn't give any false
hope to Mayor Powell by suggesting that the City could impose more
rigorous standards in regard to the City-GDU situation.
Robb asked Joe about the logic behind the fact that EPA does not
require water systems having 10,000 or fewer customers to institute
THM control. Joe said that there may not be any logic to it. He
said that the EPA standard for MCL purposes is based on a person
drinking 2 liters of water per day for 70 years. He said that we
could write to the Secretary of the DER. He would ask for our help
in requesting THM control for small systems. We could also call
the American Cancer Society, AWWA, and National Health Institute.
ORIGINATED BY: //ZX444//j,- 4z..p V i'; I.'1n4r—Dlrc,dor
COPY TO
ILLkN G'' ASSOCIATIES, INC.
engineers, hydrogeologists, surveyors & management consultants
April 19, 1993
Mr. Richard Votapka, P.E.
Utilities Director
City of Sebastian
P.O. Box 780127
Sebastian, Florida 32978-0127
Subject: Public Notice for Ammoniation System
Dear Mr. Rich:
HAI #92-023.06
aC- � •;eg3
�tC5 `��,
Attached is a copy of the General Development Utilities, Inc. (GDU) Public Notice, which
was folded and put into the bills as a bill stuffer to all the customers of the GDU system.
Also, this notice was printed in the newspaper for local distribution twice prior to the
conversion to the ammoniation system. The first time it was put into the newspaper was one
month prior to conversion, and the second was two weeks prior to conversion. The notice was
also published in the Palm Bayer, which is the City's newspaper. The City cooperated with
GDU at the time in disseminating this notice.
In an effort to have as many things accomplished in a rapid manner, I am providing you a
copy of the notice such that you can rework it to your satisfaction and coordinate the public
notification activities which would be required in conversion from a free to a combined
chlorine residual.
Thank you for your time and consideration of the above matter.
Very truly yours,
Hartman & Associates, Inc.
ieral C. an, P.E.
President
GCH/ch
C20/Votapka.gch
Attachment
cc: Hal Schmidt, HAI
201 EAST PINE STREET - SUITE 1000.ORLMXDO. FL 32801
TELEPHONE (407) 839-3955 - FAX (407) 839-3790
PRINCIPALS: JAMES E. CHRISTOPHER • CHARLES W. DRAKE • GERALD C. HARTMAN - MARK 1. L[:KE -.MARK A. RYNNING • HAROLD E. SCH,MIDT. JR.
a
PUBLIC NOTICE
TO. OWNERS OF TROPICAL FISH AND OPERATORS OF MEDICAL
DIALYSIS FACILITIES:
General Development Utilities is advising owners of tropical fish and operators of med-
,ical dialysis facilities and other chlorine -sensitive processes that current procedures to test
'for and remove chlorine from the Port Malabar water supply system may no longer be
effective.
In early March, 1983 General Development Utilities will modify its water treatment
process in order to comply with new state and federal regulations. The modification involves
changing disinfectants from chlorine to chloramine. As used in public water supplies,
chloramine is, like chlorine, harmless to humans but can adversely affect some aquatic
species and certain chlorine -sensitive processes such as dialysis.
Problems arise because test procedures used to detect and measure chlorine may -not
indicate the presence of chloramine. Also, the technique of "aging" water to dissipate
chlorine before use in aquariums is not advisable, because chloramines are more persistent
than chlorine.
Water disinfected with chloramine can be used safely for all applications if certain
Precautions are followed.
General Development Utilities urges its customers who may be affected by this change
to seek advice from professional aquarists or medical authorities competent to give such
advice.
On the positive side, chloramines will provide longer lasting protection against water-
borne disease organisms without the strong taste and odor of chlorine. Further, chloramine
will not produce chloroform and other by-products which are potential human carcinogens.
Please watch your local daily newspaper for the date in which the change to chloramines
will occur, or call our local office at 723.2877 if you have any questions.
Feb., 1983
General Development ,y
litilrtim Inc.
Customer Relations Department
Pbr<- `i"i m s/� CoKt7P_oL
Palm Bay Utility Corporation Booster Pump Station
Ammoniation System Addition Equipment List
Provided by Blankenship and Associates, Inc.
1. Capital Controls Company, Inc. Flow Proportioning Ammonia Gas Pressure Feeder Model
# 4611A
— 50 PPD gas flowmeter capacity
— 4 — 20 mAdc controller signal
— check valves coupled to 1 1/2—inch corporation cock with diffuser with rubber sleeve
— IPS threaded corporation cock
— 2— cylinder manifold
— 120 Vac, 60 Hz, Single Phase power
— interconnecting piping, manual isolation valves, and appurtenances from cylinder
manifold to cabinet
— interconnecting piping with manual isolation (ball) valve from cabinet to union outside
of enclosure
2. Blankenship and Associates, Inc. Equipment Enclosure — model BA— 505 with standard
options and/or the following (all power items should be wired to breaker box ready to use)
— 10—inch Dayton Model 2C819 exhaust fan, mounted and wired to breaker and switch
— safety chains and mounting hardware for 4 ammonia cylinders (mounted)
— automatic thermostat, 30-110 degrees, switched
— 1000—Watt heater unit
— dual electronic scale for ammonia cylinders, mounted and ready to use
— ammonia detection and alarm system with audible alarm and extenal light, mounted
and wired to breaker, ready to use
Note : Switches and breakers shall be located outside enclosure and shall be rated NEMA 4X.
Provided by Other Contractors or PBUC
3. 84" x 84" concrete pad for enclosure, (see plans)
— holes drilled for enclosure—mounting with internal flange and expansion anchors
4. Concrete sidewalk to enclosure for transport of ammonia cylinders (see plans)
5. Interconnecting piping (1—inch PVC) and appurtances from union at outside of enclosure
to corporation cock at feed point
6. Electrical conduit and wiring from power source to breaker box in enclosure
Bulletin A1.14610A.2
SERIES 4610A G
AMMONIA GAS PRESSURE FEEDER, CAPITAL CONTROLS
FLOW PROPORTIONING TYPE COMPANY, INC
Capital Controls Series 4610A represents state of the art In automatic
proportioning control of anhydrous ammonia gas feeding for water/
wastewater treatment. The modular dispensing system provides the
user with remarkable flexibility in configuring the components for
maximum operator convenience and operating safety. Four feed
capacities are available for feeding anhydrous ammonia up to 250
PPD (5 kg/h) Into open vessels or pipelines against pressure up to 10
psig (0.7 bar).
The Series 4610A system has been human engineered for ease of
operation, observation, control, and service.
Basic Feed System
The dispensing system is comprised of
four gas regulating, metering, control,
and application components.
The anhydrous ammonia gas pressure
reducing valve with gas flow rate in-
dicator is located at the gas source. It
may be direct cylinder mounted, wall
mounted on the gas valve of a single or
multiple cylinder manifold, or on the
gas discharge valve of a bulk storage
tank. Ammonia gas at source pressure
enters through the inlet valve and filter
assembly. Gas pressure is reduced
and controlled to approximately 20
psig (1.4 bar). Low pressure gas is con-
veyed from the pressure reducer to the
floor cabinet mounted metering and
rate controls. In the floor cabinet the
ammonia gas flow is metered and its
flow rate automatically controlled by a
linear modulating valve. The automatic
valve features local manual valve ad-
juster. The floor cabinet instrument
panel houses the ammonia gas pres-
sure gauge, dosage adjustment, and
gas flow indicator. The position of the automatic gas flow control
valve In the floor cabinet is controlled locally with a manual rate ad-
juster, or automatically from the controller which is mounted where
most convenient for operator observation and system safety. The
electronic controller receives the flow signal and adjusts valve posi-
tion. Lights illuminate to show valve operation, power, and no flow
conditions. From the floor cabinet, the low pressure gas is conveyed
to the check valve and gas diffuser assembly located at the applica-
tion point. The gas is diffused into the water or wastewater through
an expandable rubber sleeve which automatically removes
precipitate that forms on the diffuser In water containing hardness.
A spring loaded diaphragm check valve prevents backflow of water.
Flow Diagram
General Specifications
Model Information Code
MODEL o a a ❑ ❑
Floor Cabinet Anhydrous Ammonia
Gas Pressure Feeder L Capacity
Flow ProportioningControl 1 - 50 PPD (1 kglh)
2 -100 PPD (2 kg/h)
3 - 250 PPD (4.8 kglh)
FEED CAPACITIES
*Rigid pipe to be Schedule 80 PVC threaded or solvent weld.
CHECK_ VALVE DIFFUSER
Model Open Channel or
Maximum Capacity
Flowmeter Capacity
Model Number
PPD (Metric)
PPD (metric)
4611A
50 PPD (1 kg/h)
50 PPD (1 kg/h)
diffuser with rubber sleeve.
tubing or 114" thread.
20 PPD (0.4 kglh)
4612A
100 PPD (2 kg/h)
100 PPD
4613A Gasdrtlet connection for
one (1) diffuser with rubber
PPO (1 kg/h)
sleeve.
pipe.
20 PPD (0.4 kg/h)
4613A
250 PPD (5 kglh)
250 PPO (4.8 kg/h)
a Gas Pressure Regulator with
100 PPD (2 kglh)
1. Yoke Assembly
6. Manual Exhaust Valve
50 PPD 0 kglh)
Accuracy—within f 4% of maximum flow capacity
TUBING CONNECTIONS
8.25" (8 m) 318" Plastic Pressure
Model Number
Maximum Capacity
Pressure Vent'
4611A
50 PPD (1 kglh)
318" tubing WIN
4612A
100 PPD (2 kglh)
112" pipe WIN
4613A
250 PPD (4.8 kglh)
112" pipe 318"
Went from regulator (1) and exhaust valve (1).
PRESSURE LINE SIZE.REQUIREMENTS
Type of
Pressure
Maximum
Diameter of Pressure Line Line
Feed Rate
100'(30 m) 2001(61m)
500'(152m) Material
50 PPD (1 kglh)
318" 318"
112" Tubing or
Rigid Pipe
100 PPD (2 kglh)
112" 112"
314" Rigid Pipe
250 PPD (4.8 kg1h)
112" 314"
1 " Rigid Pipe
*Rigid pipe to be Schedule 80 PVC threaded or solvent weld.
CHECK_ VALVE DIFFUSER
Model Open Channel or
Number Tank Type
Pipeline Type
4611A Check valve and diffuser
Check valve coupled to
with rubber sleeves. Gas
1112 ff corporation cock with
Inlet connection for 318"
diffuser with rubber sleeve.
tubing or 114" thread.
4612A Check valve and diffuser
Check valve coupled to
and each with rubber sleeves. 1112 " corporation cock with
4613A Gasdrtlet connection for
one (1) diffuser with rubber
112" thread or solvent weld
sleeve.
pipe.
Shipping Weight -200 lbs (90 kg)
Standard Equipment" (AIL Models)
a Gas Pressure Regulator with
1. Yoke Assembly
6. Manual Exhaust Valve
2. Gas Supply Indicator
7.25" (8 m) 318" Vent Tubing
3. Pressure Relief Valve
8.25" (8 m) 318" Plastic Pressure
4. Gas Filter
Tubing (Model 4611A Only)
5. Vent and Pressure
9. 12 Lead Gaskets
Connections*
10. One (1) Set Spare Parts
'Models 4612A and 4613A provide, in addition to threaded gas pressure con-
nections, spare adaptors for solvent weld gas pressure piping connection.
EUROPEAN HEADQUARTERS
Crown Quay Lane • Sittingbourne • Kent ME 10 3JG • U.K.
Tel: 0795.76241 • Telex: 965636 CAPCO G
IN BELGIUM
Rue de Mont 31 • B-6330 Sombreffe • Belgium
Tel: 071-889122 • Telex: 51601 CAPCO B
b. Remote Controller
c. Floor Cabinet with
1. Automatic Valve with Local Manual Valve Adjuster
2. Metering and Rate Controls
3. Gas Pressure Gauge
d. Check Valve with Expandable Rubber Sleeve Diffuser Assembly{Patented)
Electrical Requirements
a. 120 Vac, 60 Hz, Single Phase c. 100 Vac, 50 Hz, Single Phase
b. 240 Vac, 50 Hz, Single Phase d. Power Consumption: 50 watts
Wiring—power and signal wires broght to remote mounted controller.
Signals to Controller
a. 4-20 mAdc c. 1050 mAdc e. 0-5 Vdc
b. 1.5 Vdc d. 0.20 mAdc
Options
a Anhydrous ammonia cylinder manifold (recommended with Model 4611A,
required with Models 4612A and 4613A unless feeder is mounted on an
ammonia storage tank vapor discharge valve)
Dimensions t
sEXHAUST �p
{---�
VALVE EXHAUST VALVE ON TEE
w
Wo
Le
1
wiwaw�
u"
aerx wwt AiiLlaT _
io�oaaows
IORK0010UlT `� _
MALLOKAIIQ � 1q
rouNsuo sw�o�r �
e
1plMliLMJ1IRN0.A0I1ldir� 1�R1�Ot1�® ��— O
AMMONIA OAK a/fYKe.OrKN tNANML Oe TANK
T Kraoa,enw oeoiauarwras /
—71 as i
w � I
A,Ko,nar w
oow"ws.aw TwK
as At»Ow�Mp/111»�•MtY/ »1T[11P.
tleO1KAwevti ap"sww.saee TANK
Ordering
Please specify: (1) model number, (2) das flowmeter capacity, (3) controller
signal, (4) check valve and diffuser assembly type, (5) desired options. Design
Improvements may be made without notice.
Ci
CAPITAL CONTROLS
COMPANY INC
P.O. Box 211. Colmar, PA 18915 U.S.A.
Tel: 800.523.2553, in PA 800-242-7590
Outside U.S.A. 215.822-2901
Telex 6851074 CAPCO UW
FAX: 215-82248640
Pub. No. 1284-2 8188 4M Copyright 1988 Capital Controls Company, Inc.
S
Bulletin A1.24610A.0
SPECIFICATION G
ADVANCE SERIES 4610A CAPITAL CONTROLS
AMMONIA GAS PRESSURE FEEDER, COMPANY, INC
FLOW PROPORTIONING CONTROL Po. Box 21
Colmar. PA 18915
1.0 SCOPE
This specification describes the ADVANCE Series 4610A Ammonia Gas Feeder as manufactured by
Capital Control Company, Inc., 3000 Advance Lane, Colmar, PA 18915.
2.0 DESCRIPTION
The gas ammoniator shall be Model (4611A) (4612A) (4613A) gas pressure operated, flow
proportioning control. The ammoniator shall have a maximum capacity of (50 PPD) (100 PPD) (250
PPD) of anhydrous ammonia gas feed equipped with an anhydrous ammonia gas flowmeter of
PPD.
3.0 DESIGN
The ammoniator design shall provide for conveying the gas under a reduced pressure, from the
ammonia supply valve to the diffuser check valve assembly. The ammoniator shall be constructed of
materials specially suited for wet and dry ammonia gas service. All springs used in the ammoniator
shall be stainless steel.
4.0 COMPONENTS
The ammonia dispensing system shall be comprised of five (5) gas regulating, metering, control and
application components: an ammonia gas pressure regulator with integral ammonia valve yoke and
gas flow indicator, manual exhaust valve, floor cabinet gas flow controls, electronic controller, and
gas diffuser with check valve.
4.1 PRESSURE REGULATOR
The pressure regulator reduces anhydrous ammonia gas from source pressure to approximately 20
psig (1.4 bar). This spring -opposed regulator shall be factory set and shall not require any field
adjustment for operation. Excess pressure will be prevented from building up in the system by means
of a spring loaded, integrally mounted, diaphragm actuated pressure relief valve. The excess pressure
shall be vented to the outside.
4.2 MANUAL EXHAUST VALVE
A manual exhaust valve shall be provided for mounting in the ammonia gas line between the regulator
and the floor cabinet. The valve shall be manually opened during gas supply replenishment to vent
gas pressure to a safe location.
4.3 FLOOR CABINET GAS FLOW CONTROLS
The floor cabinet shall house the automatic gas flow control valve with integral manual adjustment
knob for control of gas feed when not in automatic operation, differential pressure regulator, gas flow
indicator to show gas feed rate, and an ammonia gas pressure gauge. These components shall be
housed in a floor mounted fiberglass cabinet having dimensions of 64" (1625 mm) high, 27" (685 mm)
wide, and 19-3/4" (500 mm) deep. The gas flow indicator and gas pressure gauge is mounted in the
24" (610 mm) x 17" (430 mm) cabinet window. Dual front panels (top bezel and bottom access cover)
\ - shall be removable without the use of tools for ease of access to all cabinet internals for servicing.
The cabinet shall include rigid side frames, dual front panels, total rear access, and a ventilated kick
plate to facilitate air circulation.
All utility inlets and outlets shall be bulkhead connections mounted in the rear.
Bulletin A1.24610A.0 Page 2
4.4 ELECTRONIC CONTROLLER
A solid-state electronic controller suitable for wall mounting at a location remote from the floor
cabinet shall be provided to control valve position. The controller shall contain a calibrated dosage
potentiometer located in the cabinet next to the flowmeter enabling a 10:1 control range. The
adjustable potentiometer will provide 5:1 turn -down ratio and 2:1 turn -up ratio. An internal selector
switch shall provide for a fixed 1:1 ratio to replace the adjustable potentiometer as required. Field
modification of the input signal is achieved with plug-in components.
The controller shall be remotely mounted from the gas feeder and shall be customer wired to the floor
cabinet mounted gas flow control valve, and the controller shall provide:
1. Customer power connection terminals.
2. Test switches to simulate flow signal for monitoring the controller and valve action.
3. DPDT alarm contacts for:
a. No flow condition (select either flow signal or valve closed).
b. Contact ratings 10A-120 Vac or 28 Vdc; 2A-240 Vac.
4. Lights will illuminate to show valve operation, power, and no flow conditions.
Signals to controller:
1. 4-20 mAdc
2. 1-5 Vdc
3. 10-50 mAdc
4. 0-20 mAdc
5. 0-5 Vdc
4.5 GAS DIFFUSER WITH CHECK VALVE
The diffuser -check valve assembly shall consist of a spring loaded check valve to prevent water from
backing up into the ammonia feed system. The diffuser disperses fine gas bubbles into the water
being treated. The maximum back pressure at the point of application shall be 10 psig (0.7 bar).
(For open channel) the diffuser shall be a slitted, expandable rubber sleeve type.
(For pipeline addition) the diffuser shall be a slitted, expandable rubber sleeve type close coupled
with a corporation cock assembly having (Mueller thread) (IPS thread).
5.0 STANDARD EQUIPMENT
The following standard equipment shall be furnished with each ammoniator:
1. 25 feet (8 m) of plastic pressure (Model 4611A only) and 25 feet (8 m) of 3/8" vent tubing.
2. Twelve (12) lead gaskets.
3. One (1) set of spare parts.
CITY OF SEBASTIAN
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
DATE: March 16, 1993 TIME: 4:30 PM
[ ] CONFERENCE WITH:
[ X z] TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH: EPA Drinking Water Hotline
SUBJECT: Trihalarethanes
RESUME OF CONVERSATION:
I called the EPA Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791). I asked
if EPA had any practical consumption comparison as to equating how
much water would an individual have to drink with a certain level
of THH' s in it to cause cancer. I was told that only the numerical
thresholds are the acceptable guidelines now. EPA does not have
any comparison to the 100 UG/L (micrograms per liter) for total
trihalomethanes.
I was also told to call back in the beginning of June, 1993. By
then the proposed rule changes for THH's will be established by EPA.
ORIGINATED BY:
CITY OF SEBASTIAN
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
DATE: March 26, 1993 TIME: 2:30 PM
[ X ] CONFERENCE WITH: Gerry Hartman and Hal Schmidt
of Hartman & Associates
[ ] TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH:
SUBJECT: Ammoniation System for THM Control
RESUME OF CONVERSATION: I discussed a typical "Ammoniation" system
for the purpose of installing one at the GDU Water Plant once the
City takes over. Gerry and Hal said that basically the system is
similar to a chlorine system. It is a "dry" system; no liquids are
involved. Ammonia gas is installed in a large horizontal tank
which is normally rented from the supplier for a nominal fee per
year. Black steel pipe is used from the tank to the water system
piping. Rotameters (regulators) are used to control the flow of
gas from the tank to the system. The gas can cause calcification
in the orifice of the injection tee so proper selection of
materials is essential. The ammonia will react with "humics"
(precursors of THM's) found in the raw water supply and the
chlorine used for disinfection. A "Monochloramine" free residual
will remain. No THM's are associated with this residual.
ORIGINATEDBYa ///24
COPY TO:
City of Sebastian
POST OFFICE BOX 780127 o SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978
March 15, 1993 TELEPHONE (407) 589-5330 o FAX (407) 589-5570
Mr. Glenn Schuessler
Assistant Director
Environmental Health Department
HRS -Indian River County Public Health Unit
1900 27th Street
Vero Beach, Florida 32960
RE: Trihalomethanes at General Development Utilities Water
Treatment System, F1. DER No. 33111369 Sebastian Highlands
Subdivision, Sebastian, Florida
Dear Mr. Schuessler:
As you are aware, the City of Sebastian is currently trying to
negotiate with General Development Utilities to purchase its
potable water system within the City. One of the concerns that the
City has is the problem with the total trihalomethanes (TTHM)
exceeding the maximum contaminant level as established by the U. S.
Environmental Protection Agency.
The last samples of water from the GDU system that were collected
by your Department were on April 28, 1992, (see attached letter).
Since the analysis was done almost a year ago, I would like to
request another trihalomethane anaylsis on the GDU System to
determine the present level of TTHM. I would like to be present
when you or a member of your staff take the test samples.
Please call me at your convenience so we can schedule a visit to
the existing General Development Utilities water treatment plant
for the purpose of collecting the samples. Also, I would like to
take samples at various other locations throughout the distribution
system to provide a comparison with the results that will be
determined at the plant site.
Sincerely,
Richard B. Votapka, P.E.
Utilities Director
RBV/ar
CC: Robb McClary, Sebastian City Manager
' HARTMAN c7 ASSOCIATES INC.
engineers, hydrogeologists, surveyors & management consultants
April 13, 1993 HAI #92-023.06
Mr. Richard B. Votapka, P.E.
Utilities Director
City of Sebastian
P.O. Box 780127
Sebastian, Florida 32978-0127
Subject: Ammoniation System Design - Trihalomethane Control System for Water
Treatment Plant
Dear Mr. Votapka:
This letter constitutes our engineering proposal to design, permit, inspect, certify and prepare
record drawings for the installation of an ammoniation system at the General Development
Utilities, Inc. (GDU) Filbert Street Water Treatment Plant (WT?) for the purpose of
trihalomethane control. The ammomation feed system will quench the trihalomethane
formation reaction and limit the formation potential of the compound in the drinking water.
The cost for survey of the site for which the improvements are to be placed is $650. The final
design drawings and specifications will be prepared on behalf of the City at a cost of $7,500.
The cost for the permit fee to the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation (FDER) is
$4,000, and the preparation of the permit application is $500, for a total of $4,500. The cost
of the day of inspection, preparation of record drawings and certification to FDER is $850.
The cost of the preparation and coordination with the ammonia supplier and rental agreement
with the ammonia supplier for facilities located at the WTP site to be provided by the ammonia
supplier is $1,000. The total survey, engineering, permitting and technical services cost for
this assignment through completion and record drawings is $14,500.
201 EAST PINE STREET - SUITE 1000. ORLANDO. FL 32801
TELEPHONE (407) 839-3955 - FAX (407) 839-3790
PRINCIPALS: JAMES E. CHRISTOPHER -CHARLES W. DRAKE -GERALD C. HARTMAN • MARK I. LUKE -MARK A. RYNNING -HAROLD E. SCHMIDT. JR.
L Mr. Richard B. Votapka, P.E.
April 13, 1993
Page 2
The engineer's cost estimate for this project is as follows:
Site preparation and clearing - $1,000.
Yazdpiping - $61,900.
Slabs - $3,800.
Other concrete work - $1,000.
Structure - $99200.
Metering equipment, valves, gauges, and related instrumentation - $17,200.
Electrical - $2,700.
Special supports and related equipment accommodation facilities - $3,100.
Total $449900
Contingency at 10% $4,490
TOTAL $499390
The above is a conceptual cost estimate and subject to revision once specific client desires are
obtained and field investigations are completed.
The project schedule would be to have the design complete within one (1) month of notice to
proceed; permitting complete within three (3) months thereafter; and construction complete
within seven (7) months thereafter.
The hourly costs and other directs costs shall be as contained in our other contracts with the
City of Sebastian.
Mr. Richard B. Votapka, P.E.
April 13, 1993
Page 3
We look forward to providing the technical expertise which you desire. If the above is
acceptable to the City of Sebastian, please execute one (1) copy of this proposal and return it
to our offices.
Witness
Witness
Witness
Witness
GCH/ch
P10/Votapka.gch
Very truly yours,
Hartman & Associates, Inc.
-Gerald C. Hartman, P.E.
President
City of Sebastian, Florida
Authorized Signature
Date
City of Sebastian
POST OFFICE BOX 780127 ❑ SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978
TELEPHONE (407) 589-5330 ❑ FAX (407) 589-5570
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE March 19, 1993
FROM Richard B. Votapka, Utilities Director
TO Trihalomethane File
SUBJECT Meeting with Glenn Schuessler, Asst. Director,
Indian River County Environmental Health Dept.
Glenn told me that in his experience with trihalomethane
testing (THM), he found that the longer the water remains in the
distribution system, the higher the THM's seem to be. He plotted
this on a map of the GDU system where he had taken tests.
. A �
b a .
t. {" & ASSOCIATES, INC.
engineers, hydrogeologists, surveyors & management consultants
Mr. Richard B. Votapka, P.E.
Utilities Director
City of Sebastian
P.O. Box 780127
Sebastian, Florida 32978-0127
April 13, 1993 HAI #92-023.06
,"1
ap,�p/A
Subject: Ammoniation System Design - Trihalomethane Control System for Water
Treatment Plant
Dear Mr. Votapka:
This letter constitutes our engineering proposal to design, permit, inspect, certify and prepare
record drawings for the installation of an ammoniation system at the General Development
Utilities, Inc. (GDU) Filbert Street Water Treatment Plant (WT?) for the purpose of
trihalomethane control. The ammoniation feed system will quench the trihalomethane
formation reaction and limit the formation potential of the compound in the drinking water.
The cost for survey of the site for which the improvements are to be placed is $650. The final
design drawings and specifications will be prepared on behalf of the City at a cost of $7,500.
The cost for the permit fee to the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation (FDER) is
$4,000, and the preparation of the permit application is $500, for a total of $4,500. The cost
of the day of inspection, preparation of record drawings and certification to FDER is $850.
The cost of the preparation and coordination with the ammonia supplier and rental agreement
with the ammonia supplier for facilities located at the WTP site to be provided by the ammonia
supplier is $1,000. The total survey, engineering, permitting and technical services cost for
this assignment through completion and record drawings is $14,500.
201 EAST PINE STREET - SUITE 1000.ORLANDO, FL 32801
TELEPHONE (407) 839-3955 - FAX (407) 839-3790
PRINCIPALS: JAMES E. CHRISTOPHER - CHARLES W. DRAKE - GERALD C. HARTMAN - MARK I. LUKE • MARK A. RYNNING • HAROLD E. SCHMIDT, JR.
Mr. Richard B. Votapka, P.E.
April 13, 1993
Page 2
The engineer's cost estimate for this project is as follows:
Site preparation and clearing - $1,000.
Yard piping - $6,900.
Slabs - $3,800.
Other concrete work - $19000.
Structure - $9,200.
Metering equipment, valves, gauges, and related instrumentation - $17,200.
Electrical - $22700.
Special supports and related equipment accommodation facilities - $3,100.
Total $44,900
Contingency at 10% $4,490
TOTAL $499390
The above is a conceptual cost estimate and subject to revision once specific client desires are
obtained and field investigations are completed.
The project schedule would be to have the design complete within one (1) month of notice to
proceed; permitting complete within three (3) months thereafter; and construction complete
within seven (7) months thereafter.
The hourly costs and other directs costs shall be as contained in our other contracts with the
City of Sebastian.
v
1 0 Richard B. Votapka, P.E.
April 13, 1993
Page 3
We look forward to providing the technical expertise which you desire. If the above is
acceptable to the City of Sebastian, please execute one (1) copy of this proposal and return it
to our offices.
Witness
Witness
Witness
GCH/ch
P10/Votapka.gch
Very truly yours,
Hartman & Associates, Inc.
Gerald C. Hartman, P.E.
President
City of Sebastian, Florida
Authorized Signature
Date
City of Sebastian
POST OFFICE BOX 780127 o SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978
TELEPHONE (407) 589-5330 0 FAX (407) 589-5570
H E H O R A N D U H
DATE : Harch 12, 1993
TO : File
FROM : Rich Votapka, Utilities Director /M/
SUBJECT : Trihalomethames (THH's)
In my meeting with Glenn Scheussler, Assistant Director of the DHRS
Environmental Health Department on Harch 10, 1993, Glenn gave me
the following information re: Trihelomethanes:
TTHHs or Total Trihalomethanes consist of four (4) compounds:
1) Chloroform ( CP C't3 )
2 ) Bromoform CCW Br3 J
3 ) BDCH - Bromo Di Chloro Methane
4 ) CDBH - Chloro Di Bromo Methane (CN 3r? C 1
Tests for the above are expressed in UG/L which means micrograms
per liter or ppb -parts per billion.
The aggregate total for the four compounds above must be less than
100 ug/1 to not constitute a health threat.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains the curent
standard for THRs is 0.1 mg/L for systems serving more than 10,000
people.
The EPA's D -DBP rule (Disinfectant & Disinfection By -Products Rule)
which will become effective after June, 1995, will impose that
level on all systems and may reduce the allowable level.
Trihalomethanes (THHs) are compounds suspected to be cancer -forming
when ingested in sufficient quantities.
RBV/ar
I
STATE OF FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES
HRS - INDIAN RIVER COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH UNIT
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTf TE6EPHONS (407) 778.8321
1800 27TH STREET St1N+COM 240-6321
VERO BEACH. FL 329W FAX 778-6303
March 30, 1992
Ms. Janine Morris
U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
345 Courtland Street, N. E.
Atlanta, GA 30365
RE: General Development Utilities
FL DER ID # 3311136
Sebastian Highlands
Sebastian, FL
Dear Ms. Morris:
In reference to your request, I have enclosed copies of
laboratory results regarding total trihalomethane analysis
for the above referenced facility. Our initial investi-
gation was conducted on October 26, 1990 which consisted of
collecting two (2) samples, one inside a residence (950 Beach
Lane) and one outside the residence. Subsequent collection
and sampling of the water system at other locations was
conducted on March 29, 1991 and October 22, 1991.
If you have any questions or we can be of further assistance,
please feel free to contact me. '
S irl4erfily,
' ,en R. Schuessler
Asst. Env. Health Director
cc: Paul Morrison, FL Dept. of Env. Reg., Central District
LAWTON CHILES. GOVERNOR
STATE OF FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF HEAUP I AND REHABILJTATIVE SERVICES
HRS - INDIAN RIVER COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH UNIT
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH TELEPHONE (407) 778-6321
1$00 27TH STREET SLIN-COM 240.6321
V ERO BEACH. FL 32560 FAX 7 78 6303
May 27, 1992
Ms.. Janine Morris
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
345 Courtland Street, N.E.
Atlanta, Ga 30365
RE: General Development Utilities
FL. DER #3311136
Sebastian Highlands Subdivision
Sebastian, Florida
Dear Ms. Morris:
Enclosed are the most current copies of laboratory results
regarding total Trihalomethane analysis for the above
referenced facility. The samples were collected on Apr.tl
28, 1992.
If you have any questions or if we can be of further
assistance, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerer,-.
Glenn R. Schuessler
Asst. Environmental Director
LAWTON CHILES, GOVERNOR