Sludge Volume Index Formula:
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Sludge Volume Index (SVI) is a key parameter in wastewater treatment that measures the settling characteristics of activated sludge. It indicates the volume occupied by one gram of sludge after 30 minutes of settling.
The calculator uses the SVI formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the sludge volume index based on the ratio of recirculation flow to sewage discharge and the MLSS concentration.
Details: SVI is crucial for monitoring the settling properties of activated sludge in wastewater treatment plants. It helps operators assess sludge quality, optimize process control, and prevent settling problems in clarifiers.
Tips: Enter recirculation flow and sewage discharge in m³/s, and MLSS concentration in kg/m³. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What is a good SVI value?
A: Typically, SVI values between 50-150 mL/g indicate good settling sludge. Values above 150 may indicate bulking sludge, while values below 50 may indicate old or dense sludge.
Q2: How often should SVI be measured?
A: SVI should be measured daily in most wastewater treatment plants to monitor sludge settling characteristics and make timely process adjustments.
Q3: What factors affect SVI?
A: SVI is affected by factors such as food-to-microorganism ratio, dissolved oxygen levels, temperature, pH, and the presence of filamentous organisms.
Q4: What does a high SVI indicate?
A: High SVI values (>150 mL/g) typically indicate poor sludge settling characteristics, often caused by filamentous bulking or viscous bulking.
Q5: How can SVI be improved?
A: SVI can be improved by adjusting aeration rates, controlling food-to-microorganism ratios, adding chemicals like polymers, or implementing selectors to control filamentous growth.