Advanced Ultrasonic Algae Control for Municipal Wastewater Management in Canada

Ultrasonic Algae Control

What does Ultrasonic Algae Control do? 

It is a chemical-free solution to unwanted algae in wastewater lagoons and basins. Ultrasonic algae control emits ultrasound waves at varying frequencies to disrupt algal growth.

How does Ultrasonic Algae Control work in wastewater applications?

The ultrasonic algae control transducer is suspended beneath a float under the surface of a lagoon storage cell. It emits ultrasonic waves in a 360-degree pattern, disrupting the growth of almost all species of algae. This disruption prevents blooms from forming and reduces their impact on effluent quality.

What are the benefits of Ultrasonic Algae Control in wastewater management?

Ultrasonic algae control reduces the negative effects of algae in wastewater.

Algae in wastewater increases Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and their presence in the water column directly contributes to carbonaceous Biochemical Oxygen Demand (cBOD) by introducing organic material that requires microbial decomposition. During photosynthesis, algae remove CO₂ from the water, causing pH to rise. Elevated pH can shift ammonia equilibrium toward its un-ionized form (NH₃), which is more toxic to aquatic life.

Controlling algal growth reduces the risks associated with excess algal growth. Other benefits include:

• Reduce filter and pump fouling
• Reduce odours associated with specific algal species
• Improve overall lagoon performance

Address Algae Problems in Wastewater Lagoons

Problem: High un-ionized ammonia levels, elevated TSS, and increased cBOD due to excess algae in wastewater polishing ponds and storage cells.

Solution: Stop the algal life cycle, which elevates TSS and cBOD, resulting in difficult-to-manage changes in the effluent quality. Uni-ionized ammonia can be a secondary “product” of the algal life cycle, and it must meet regulatory requirements for discharge in almost all Canadian jurisdictions.

Problem: Constant chemical application to wastewater treatment lagoons

Solution: Reduce chemical costs, staff labour, and risk by limiting lagoon storage cell intervention to twice yearly—after ice melt and before refreezing—rather than the routine application of algaecides.

Problem: Algae blooms that foul pumps and filters

Solution: Ultrasonic algae control disrupts buoyancy regulation in cyanobacteria and inhibits growth in many algae species before they develop into large biomass that clogs filters and pumps.

Industry Applications

Key Benefits

1. Improved Effluent Quality in Lagoons

• Lower TSS and cBOD: Lower TSS and cBOD: Reducing algae decreases suspended solids and organic material in the water, improving clarity and reducing oxygen demand in effluent quality.
• Stabilized pH: Algal photosynthesis removes CO₂, raising pH. Less algae result in lower, more stable pH levels.

2. Increased Efficiency in WWTPs

• Reduced Biomass Buildup: Disrupts biofilm formation and biomass accumulation in clarifiers and oxidation ditches, maintaining optimal system flow.
• Lower Maintenance Needs: Less fouling reduces cleaning requirements and extends equipment lifespan.

3. Chemical-Free Operation

• Eliminates the need for algicides, reducing costs and preventing chemical residues.

4. Cost Savings

• Energy Efficiency: Improved flow and oxygen transfer lower energy usage.
• Minimized Downtime: Fewer clogs and reduced maintenance improve operational reliability.

5. Reliable and Long-Lasting

• Continuous, low-maintenance operation ensures sustainable performance over time