by Erik Rumbaugh | Dec 1, 2025 | Anaerobic digester, Biomass Optimization, Wastewater Monitoring, Wastewater Procedure, Wastewater Troubleshooting
Biological wastewater treatment is powered by microorganisms. Just like us, these tiny workers need a balanced diet to stay healthy and perform their job—breaking down pollutants. Their diet consists of macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients, each playing a vital role in...
by Erik Rumbaugh | Nov 18, 2025 | Wastewater Troubleshooting
In biological wastewater treatment process efficiency relies on the health and stability of the microbial flocs— aggregates of bacteria, adsorbed organics, and inorganics. When these flocs break apart, a problem known as deflocculation occurs. This phenomenon is a...
by Erik Rumbaugh | Nov 6, 2025 | Sludge, Wastewater Troubleshooting
As wastewater professionals, we’re all familiar with the activated sludge process—the backbone of many treatment plants. But one aspect that often flies under the radar until it causes issues is endogenous phase biomass, commonly referred to as “old...
by Erik Rumbaugh | Oct 20, 2025 | Wastewater Troubleshooting
Domestic wastewater is a complex mixture of organic and synthetic compounds. Its overall strength is typically assessed using indicators like BOD₅ (Biochemical Oxygen Demand), COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand), and TOC (Total Organic Carbon). Within this mix are readily...
by Erik Rumbaugh | Oct 14, 2025 | Wastewater Troubleshooting
We are often asked about the impact of various chemicals on wastewater treatment plants. Over the years, we have compounded a list of the primary industrial chemicals that inhibit the growth and activity of microorganisms in wastewater treatment systems, leading to a...
by Erik Rumbaugh | Aug 24, 2025 | Anaerobic digester, Biomass Optimization, Wastewater Testing, Wastewater Troubleshooting
Anaerobic digesters are marvels of sustainable technology, transforming organic waste—like manure, food scraps, and sewage—into renewable energy in the form of biogas while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. At their core, these systems rely on a complex community of...
