Rapid industrial growth, urbanisation and increasing consumerism are leading to an increase in the volume of generated wastewater. The waste stored and transported in sewer systems is not only a threat to health and the environment, but also generates offensive odours. An effective solution to this problem is to install filters that eliminate the smell and toxic substances.
Sewage treatment process and sewage odour nuisance
In order to explain the operation of anti-odour filters, we need to briefly outline the wastewater treatment process. It usually starts with mechanical filtration, where solid and liquid contaminants are separated by means of various grids or sieves. Mechanical treatment takes place in the primary settling tank, where sedimentation and flotation processes are used. Biological treatment, on the other hand, takes place in a reactor chamber with a fixed, submerged biological bed, which breaks down the pollutants into more environmentally friendly substances.
Unfortunately, each stage of this process can give rise to unpleasant odours. Their source (besides sewage treatment plants) are also pumping stations, grease separators, sewage wells, septic tanks or collection chambers.
Furthermore, we now have ever longer pressure pipes with ever smaller flow rates. Such large sewer systems result in wastewater being held for long periods of time in oxygen-restricted conditions, with the result that it rots and the systems become more foul.
Carbon based anti-odour filters – the solution to sewer smells
Anti-odour filters are usually installed where there is the greatest danger of odorous substances escaping. These are most often manholes leading to tanks with contaminants or vents.
This type of equipment uses the properties of activated carbon, as it has a high absorption capacity. It is this carbon that minimises the release of odorous and odourless substances. Additionally, the process of odour elimination is supported by an alkaline impregnation (chemisorption).
Activated carbon has an extremely porous structure, so that the surface area that comes into contact with airborne substances is exceptionally large. This affects both the effectiveness of the operation and the service life of the anti-odour filter itself.
Anti-odour filters effectively inhibit sewer smells
Anti-odour filters from Ecol-Unicon
Ecol-Unicon offers modern and robust sub-manhole and chimney filters belonging to the category of so-called passive neutralisers.
For example, in the KF model, a pipe chimney is fitted on the tank by sliding it into a sealed passage or socket previously embedded in the cover. The KFW fireplace inserts, on the other hand, have a ring with a rubber gasket at the top of the pipe, which rests on the fireplace housing. Unlike the first two models, the EZK system is equipped with a plate that allows installation with anchors.
Chimney filters are mainly designed for dry- and wet-well sewage pumping stations, as well as for domestic sewage treatment plants.
In the ENPeco sub-manhole filters the entire system consists of (apart from the carbon insert and neutraliser) a casing, supports, fastening elements, expansion plugs, screws, nuts and a threaded rod. The sub-manhole units are installed in collection wells and sewage sumps, infiltration systems and food processing plants.
In contrast, the ENA active neutraliser consists of a HDPE tank with activated carbon, a blower and a control system. Unlike passive devices, the insert used here does not filter mechanically, but neutralises odours and toxic substances using a chemisorption and adsorption reaction.
Key advantages of the Ecol-Unicon anti-odour filters
All models are made of materials highly resistant to prolonged contact with aggressive substances found in pumping stations and treatment plants.
Most importantly, the applied modern technical solutions enable simple, safe and independent replacement of just the insert without the need to replace the whole device, which significantly reduces operating costs.
Interested? Naturally, you will find our complete range of filters in the Ecol-Unicon! We would also be happy to advise you on choosing the right device for your particular facility and requirements.