Force Main System Sulfide Control with Hydrogen Peroxide

Force main systems are typically high sulfide odor generators due to septicity conditions related to full pipe flow and a greater anaerobic slime layer (biofilm) thickness. Primary factors that influence sulfide loading generation in a force main include sewage temperature, BOD, retention time, pipe size and flow.  Gaseous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) release at the force main discharge is usually the main concern related to odor and corrosion control needs; however, corrosion problems within the pipe can be of a concern (e.g. "crown cutting") at locations where air pockets can lead to concentrated H2S gas build up.

Some basic considerations for assessing an appropriate sulfide odor treatment method for force main systems include:

  • Retention time / duration of control
  • Pump station type / cycling (e.g. vfd; start/stop, etc).
  • Force main injection tap points, if any (e.g. air relief valves)
  • Existence of intermediate re-lift stations or in series pump stations
  • Manifold force main systems

Sulfide Odor Treatment Methods

Several proven force main system sulphide control treatment methods exist that can be evaluated depending on retention time and sulfide loadings.  As a general guide the following technology fit can be used:

Force main RetentionCost Effective Treatment Options

Short  (<2 hours)

H2O2, Iron Salts, Nitrate Salts, Alkali

Medium (2 to 5 hours)

Iron Salts, Nitrate Salts, Alkali; PRI-SC

Long (>5 hours)

Iron Salts, PRI-SC

Note:

(1) If a force main tap can be located within approximately 30 minute upstream of the discharge, H2O2 is a cost effective approach.

(2) PRI-SC requires intermediate dosing location for H2O2.


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