If it is determined you need to add chlorine to your RAS to control a filamentous problem, what is typically the maximum safest dosage used for this process?

The maximum safest dosage of chlorine for controlling filamentous problems in return activated sludge (RAS) typically falls within the range of 3-5 kg of chlorine for every 1000 kg of mixed liquor volatile suspended solids (MLVSS). This dosage is effective in addressing filamentous bacteria without causing significant harm to the beneficial microorganisms in the treatment process, which are essential for the breakdown of organic matter.

Using this dosage helps ensure that the chlorination is potent enough to mitigate issues caused by filamentous organisms, which can hinder settling and filtration processes, while still being mindful of the overall health of the activated sludge system. Exceeding this dosage could lead to detrimental effects on the microbial population, potentially disrupting the biological processes and leading to reduced treatment efficiency. The selection of this safe dosing range demonstrates a balance between effective control of the filamentous problem and maintaining the viability of necessary bacterial populations.