Optimized operation of water intake structures of a metropolis: analyzing the problems and innovative solutions through the example of the Main Water Treatment Plant of Saint-Petersburg

Summary

The problems of operating slotted filter heads suffering seasonal icing and biofouling at the water intake structures of the Main Water Treatment Plant in St. Petersburg are analyzed. Cleaning methods (air, water, air scouring, and unit bypass mode) are considered alongside with the process efficiency, economic costs, and environmental impact estimation. Upgrade options are proposed, i. e. replacing slotted filter heads with umbrella-type ones and installing water treatment equipment or protective nets. The need for switching to integrated substantive solutions to ensure long-term reliability and uninterrupted water supply in the metropolis is substantiated.

Key words

water supply , reliability , economic efficiency , water abstraction facilities , щелевой фильтр-оголовок , biofouling , icing , umbrella-type filter head