Mean Cell Residence Time Formula:
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Definition: Mean Cell Residence Time (θc) is the average time that the sludge remains in the reactor.
Purpose: It's a critical parameter in wastewater treatment plant design and operation, indicating how long microorganisms are kept in the system.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the average time microorganisms spend in the activated sludge system.
Details: Proper θc ensures effective biological treatment, controls sludge age, and affects sludge settling properties.
Tips: Enter reactor volume, MLSS concentration, WAS pumping rate, and sludge concentration in return line. All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is a typical θc range for activated sludge?
A: Typically 5-15 days (432,000-1,296,000 seconds) for conventional activated sludge systems.
Q2: How does θc affect treatment efficiency?
A: Longer θc improves nitrification and BOD removal but may cause poor settling if too long.
Q3: What's the relationship between θc and F/M ratio?
A: θc is inversely related to F/M ratio - longer θc means lower food-to-microorganism ratio.
Q4: How do I measure MLSS?
A: MLSS is measured by filtering a sample, drying at 105°C, and weighing the residue.
Q5: Why is this called "when concentration of solid in effluent is low"?
A: This simplified formula assumes negligible solids in the effluent, which is often true in well-operated plants.