Secondary wastewater treatment

Anaerobic ponds operate in a series and can occupy a large area. Initial settling begins in the first pond where a slow microbial conversion of the nutrients commences. Higher temperatures help accelerate the biological breakdown.

Methane is a primary product from the aerobic reaction. In some wineries the methane is captured and used as a fuel to heat the waste. This accelerates the rate of the process. The methane can also be used in other applications around the winery especially to heat water used in the winery.

As the water in the first pond becomes clearer it is usually pumped to a second pond for further treatment. This second pond may be an aerobic pond.

Aerobic Ponds:

Aerobic ponds have a rapid response when compared to an anaerobic systems. Aerobic ponds require mechanical aeration to provide the necessary oxygen to break down the solids. This involves an ongoing energy input that greatly speeds up the rate of breakdown.

Aeration is usually created by paddles or propellers just below the surface of the water splashing. Oxygen can be bubbled into the water; the smaller the bubbles, the more efficient and rapid is the process. Energy to power the mechanical aeration may be solar or wine powered. Strategic placement of the pond will facilitate wind aeration of the surface.