Waterworks' Extended Aeration (EA) Systems

Extended aeration (EA) is an activated-sludge process for biological wastewater treatment. It is a similar process to conventional plug-flow but has a lower loading rate and longer detention time. The EA process operates in the last phase of the bacteria life cycle in which the death rate exceeds the growth rate. Essentially, the available food has been consumed and the remaining bacteria are forced to consume each other, thereby reducing the sludge.

The EA process involves a large tank or lagoon with a constant air supply and underwater distribution network. EA is commonly used for small community wastewater treatment and is often paired with trickling filters for optimal treatment.

For more information on Waterworks' Extended Aeration system, contact us at waterworks@waterworks.ca