WEF Discussion Forums : Operation and Maintenance : Why effluent
clears-up after interruption of aeration?   - release of
extracellular polymers by stressed bugs,  - die-off of free
swimmers.   Any other suggestions?  Does anybody else have a
similar experience?   Fri, 23 Sep 2011 20:35:08 GMT      In
addition to the SVI, microscopic examination of the activated
sludge under phase contrast @ 200 X (or with a regular
microscope with the condensor lowered to enhance contrast) the
floc was dense and clotty.  You could tell that, because as you
focus up and down...the floc was dense...no wastes or oxygen
get's to the center of the floc.   If these are consistent with
your experience, you might want to consider slowly lowering the
sludge age/MLSS to promote growth of the better activated
sludge.  Since you have to nitrify...be careful.  I'd confirm
that the F:M was very low...SVI is low...pounds BOD loading to
the aeration basin is low.   Please let us know whatever you
find!!!!!      Sun, 09 Oct 2011 00:34:51 GMT