WATER TREATMENT PLANT (WTP)
A water treatment plant (WTP) is a facility where raw water is processed to remove impurities and contaminants, making it safe for drinking, industrial use, or environmental discharge. The treatment process typically involves several stages, including screening, coagulation and flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection, and sometimes additional treatments, depending on the quality of the source water and the requirements for the treated water. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the water meets safety and quality standards.
WATER TREATMENT PLANT - PROCESS & PURPOSE
S.NO. | COMPONENTS | PURPOSE | PROCESS |
1 | Screening | To remove large debris such as sticks, leaves, and trash from the water. | Water passes through screens of varying sizes to filter out large particles. |
2 | Coagulation and Flocculation | To aggregate small suspended particles into larger clumps for easier removal. | Chemicals (coagulants) like aluminum sulfate or ferric chloride are added to the water, causing particles to clump together into larger particles called flocs. This is often followed by gentle mixing (flocculation) to encourage the formation of larger flocs. |
3 | Sedimentation | To allow the heavy flocs to settle to the bottom of the treatment tank. | Water is left undisturbed in sedimentation basins or tanks, allowing the flocs to settle by gravity. The clear water at the top is then collected for further treatment. |
4 | Filtration | To remove any remaining particles and impurities. | Water passes through filters made of sand, gravel, and sometimes activated carbon. These filters trap and remove smaller particles that did not settle out during sedimentation. |
5 | Disinfection | To kill or inactivate harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. | Disinfectants like chlorine, chloramine, or ozone are added to the water. Ultraviolet (UV) light can also be used for disinfection. |
6 | pH Adjustment | To stabilize the pH of the water, making it less corrosive and ensuring it is safe for distribution. | Chemicals such as lime or sodium hydroxide are added to adjust the water's pH to the desired level. |
7 | Additional Treatment (if needed) | To address specific contaminants or to improve water quality further. | This can include additional filtration (e.g., granular activated carbon filters), ion exchange, reverse osmosis, or the addition of fluoride for dental health benefits. |
8 | Storage and Distribution: | To store the treated water and ensure it reaches consumers safely. | Treated water is stored in reservoirs or tanks before being pumped through the distribution system to homes, businesses, and other end-users. |