How does high TSS affect wastewater treatment?

High total suspended solids (TSS) can significantly hinder wastewater treatment processes and negatively affect effluent quality. In treatment systems, excessive TSS can lead to several issues, such as clogging of filters and aeration equipment, reduced efficacy of biological treatment processes due to limited oxygen transfer, and potential overload of the system with solids that are difficult to manage. When there is a high concentration of suspended solids, it can also interfere with the settling processes in clarifiers, leading to increased turbidity in the final effluent and, ultimately, non-compliance with discharge standards.

Moreover, elevated TSS levels may indicate the presence of organics and other contaminants that require treatment, which complicates the overall treatment process. This can result in higher operational costs, the need for more frequent maintenance, and the risk of violating regulations due to poor effluent quality. Therefore, managing TSS is crucial for maintaining effective wastewater treatment operations.