What is Preliminary Treatment?

Preliminary treatment in wastewater treatment refers to the initial stage of the process where large solids, debris, and grit are removed from wastewater before it undergoes further treatment. The primary goal is to protect the equipment and improve the efficiency of subsequent treatment processes. Key processes involved in preliminary treatment include:

1. Screening: Removing large solids such as plastics, rags, and other debris using screens or mesh.
2. Grit Removal: Removing heavier particles like sand, gravel, and other gritty materials through sedimentation or mechanical devices.
3. Flow Equalization: Balancing the flow of wastewater to ensure a consistent volume enters the treatment plant.

These steps help to reduce the load on primary and secondary treatment systems, making the overall treatment process more efficient.