Here’s a quick table summarizing the key differences between sewage and sewers: Feature Sewage Sewers Definition Wastewater and waste materials from plumbing fixtures Network of pipes that transport sewage Location Within a building and plumbing system Underground network Function Drains waste from fixtures Transports waste to treatment plant METHODS AND PATTERN OF SEWAGE COLLECTION QUANTITY OF SEWAGE COLLECTION. DESIGN OF SEWERS AND DRAINS TABLE OF CONTENTS
Feature Combined Sewer System (CSS) Separate Sewer System (SSS) Pipe Network Single set of pipes for both sewage and stormwater runoff. Two separate sets of pipes: - Sanitary sewers for sewage. - Storm drains for stormwater runoff. Initial Cost Generally lower initial cost due to a single pipe network. Higher initial cost due to the need for two separate pipe networks. Overflow Potential Higher risk of overflows during heavy rainfall events when the combined flow exceeds system capacity, leading to untreated sewage discharge into waterways. Lower risk of overflows as sanitary sewers are designed for typical wastewater flow and storm drains handle excess rainwater. Maintenance Can be more complex due to the potential for blockages caused by debris carried by stormwater runoff. Generally simpler maintenance as sanitary sewers carry a more consistent flow. Treatment Requirements All wastewater, including stormwater, receives treatment at a wastewater treatment plant. Treatment capacity needs to be designed to handle peak combined flows. Sanitary wastewater receives treatment at a wastewater treatment plant. Stormwater runoff may receive minimal treatment or be discharged directly to a waterway depending on local regulations. Environmental Impact Higher potential for environmental pollution due to untreated sewage overflows during heavy rainfall events. Lower risk of environmental pollution due to reduced overflows. Suitability More suitable for older, established urban areas where modifying existing infrastructure might be challenging. More suitable for new developments or areas where reducing the risk of overflows is a priority. Sewage collection systems can be broadly classified into two types: SEWAGE COLLECTION
METHODS OF SEWAGE COLLECTION Method Description in architectural terms Typical use cases Advantages Disadvantages Gravity sewer system The most common method, utilizing a network of underground pipes with a sloped gradient to transport sewage by gravity flow. Widely used in urban areas with readily available public sewer systems. - Simple and reliable - low maintenance costs (once installed) - Requires sloped terrain - limited flexibility for changes in elevation Pumped sewer system Uses pumps to lift sewage to a higher elevation for transport through pipes. Used in areas with flat terrain or where buildings are located below the main sewer line. Necessary for basements or multi-story buildings. - Overcomes limitations of gravity flow - more flexibility in building design - Higher initial and maintenance costs - requires reliable power source Septic tank system An on-site wastewater treatment system consisting of a buried tank where sewage undergoes partial treatment. Treated effluent then drains into a leach field for further filtration through the soil. Used in rural areas or locations without access to a public sewer system. - Standalone system, no reliance on public infrastructure - Requires regular maintenance and inspection - limited capacity, unsuitable for high-density areas - may pose environmental risks if not properly maintained Vacuum sewer system Utilizes a network of airtight pipes and vacuum stations to collect and transport sewage. Used in specific situations like densely populated areas with limited space for traditional sewers, or where minimizing excavation work is crucial. - Efficient collection, minimizes infrastructure disruption - High initial cost, complex technology - requires specialized equipment and maintenance expertise
Step Description Waste Generation Wastewater is generated from various plumbing fixtures (toilets, sinks, showers, washing machines). Fixture Drain Wastewater exits each fixture through its dedicated drain pipe. Building Drain Individual drain pipes converge into a larger horizontal pipe called the building drain, collecting wastewater from all fixtures and surrounding . Building Trap A trap is installed on the building drain to prevent sewer gases from entering the building. The trap allows wastewater to flow freely while containing a water seal that blocks sewer gases. Building Sewer The building drain exits the building and connects to a dedicated pipe called the building sewer, typically larger in diameter to accommodate combined flow. Main Sewer Line The building sewer connects to the main sewer line, a network of underground pipes that transport wastewater from multiple buildings towards a treatment plant. Slope The main sewer line maintains a continuous downward slope to facilitate gravity flow, ensuring wastewater moves efficiently without needing pumps. . Manholes Manholes are access points located along the main sewer line for inspection, cleaning, and maintenance. Crews can enter these to address blockages or perform maintenance tasks. Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant The main sewer line ultimately leads to a municipal wastewater treatment plant, where the wastewater undergoes various processes before being discharged or reused. GRAVITY SEWER SYSTEM Working diagram Working flow chart
PUMPED SEWER SYSTEM Working diagram Working flow chart Step Description Waste Generation Wastewater is generated from various plumbing fixtures (toilets, sinks, showers, washing machines). Fixture Drain Wastewater exits each fixture through its dedicated drain pipe. Building Drain Individual drain pipes converge into a larger horizontal pipe called the building drain, collecting wastewater from all fixtures. Building Trap A trap is installed on the building drain to prevent sewer gases from entering the building. The trap allows wastewater to flow freely while containing a water seal that blocks sewer gases. Sewage Sump Wastewater collects in a holding tank called the sewage sump. Level Sensor A level sensor in the sump monitors the wastewater level. Pump Activation (Triggered by Level Sensor) When the wastewater level reaches a pre-determined threshold, the level sensor triggers the activation of the sewage pump. Sewage Pump The sewage pump lifts the wastewater from the sump and pressurizes it for transport. Force Main The pressurized wastewater is discharged into a dedicated pipe called the force main, typically smaller in diameter due to the pressure. Check Valve A check valve installed on the force main prevents backflow of wastewater into the sump. Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant Ultimately, the wastewater reaches a municipal wastewater treatment plant for treatment before being discharged or reused.
SEPTIC TANK SEWER SYSTEM Working diagram Working flow chart Step Description Waste Generation Wastewater is generated from various plumbing fixtures (toilets, sinks, showers, washing machines). Fixture Drain Wastewater exits each fixture through its dedicated drain pipe. Building Drain Individual drain pipes converge into a larger horizontal pipe called the building drain, collecting wastewater from all fixtures. Building Trap A trap is installed on the building drain to prevent sewer gases from entering the building. The trap allows wastewater to flow freely while containing a water seal that blocks sewer gases. Septic Tank Wastewater flows from the building drain into a buried septic tank. Settling & Scum Formation Inside the septic tank: - Heavier solids settle at the bottom forming sludge. - Lighter materials like grease and oils float to the top forming scum. Effluent The clarified liquid remaining in the middle is called effluent. Anaerobic Digestion Bacteria in the absence of oxygen (anaerobic digestion) break down organic matter in the sludge and scum, reducing its volume. Outlet Pipe The effluent exits the septic tank through an outlet pipe located below the scum layer. Leach Field The effluent flows into a network of perforated pipes called a leach field, typically made of gravel-filled trenches. Soil Infiltration The effluent infiltrates through the gravel and surrounding soil. Biological Treatment Naturally occurring bacteria in the soil further treat the effluent. Groundwater Recharge The treated effluent percolates into the ground, replenishing groundwater resources.
VACUUM SEWER SYSTEM Working diagram Working flow chart Step Description Waste Generation Wastewater is generated from various plumbing fixtures (toilets, sinks, showers, washing machines). Fixture Drain Wastewater exits each fixture through its dedicated drain pipe. Building Drain Individual drain pipes converge into a larger horizontal pipe called the building drain, collecting wastewater from all fixtures. Building Trap A trap is installed on the building drain to prevent sewer gases from entering the building. The trap allows wastewater to flow freely while containing a water seal that blocks sewer gases. Vacuum Collection Point The building drain connects to a dedicated vacuum collection point located outside the building. This point typically includes: - Isolation valve to control flow. - Check valve to prevent backflow. Vacuum Valve Activation When wastewater reaches a pre-set level in the collection point, a sensor triggers the opening of a vacuum valve. Vacuum Main The vacuum valve connects to a network of underground pipes called the vacuum main. This main is continuously under negative pressure created by vacuum stations. Air/Wastewater Mixture The negative pressure in the vacuum main draws a controlled amount of air and wastewater from the collection point through the opened valve. Vacuum Station The air/wastewater mixture travels through the vacuum main to a central vacuum station. Rotary Vane Pumps Rotary vane pumps at the vacuum station generate the negative pressure (vacuum) required to transport wastewater through the system. Separation Tank The air/wastewater mixture enters a separation tank where the wastewater and air are separated. Treated Wastewater The treated wastewater exits the separation tank and is typically discharged to: - A municipal sewer system for further treatment. - An on-site treatment plant (depending on local regulations). Air Filtration (Optional) The extracted air may be filtered to remove impurities before being released back into the atmosphere.
Pattern Description Advantages Disadvantages Applications Perpendicular Pattern A grid-like network with main sewers running perpendicular to a central collection line. - Efficient for flat areas. - Streamlined flow towards central treatment plant. - Requires relatively flat topography. - May require additional pumping stations in some areas. - Most common pattern in urban areas with flat terrain and centrally located treatment plants. Radial Pattern Sewers radiate outward from a central treatment plant, typically located at a low point (e.g., near a river). - Well-suited for areas with a central treatment plant at a lower elevation. - Efficient flow towards a single discharge point. - Less efficient for areas with significant elevation changes. - Requires deeper excavation for sewers in higher elevation areas. - Suitable for areas with a central treatment plant located at a lower elevation (e.g., valleys, coastal areas). Fan Pattern Similar to radial, but with sewers fanning out from the treatment plant located on one side of the collection area towards higher elevations. - Efficient for areas with a treatment plant on one side and higher elevations on the other. - Streamlined flow towards the treatment plant. - Less efficient for areas with significant elevation changes on multiple sides. - May require pumping stations for wastewater from lower elevations. - Applicable for areas with a treatment plant situated on one side of the collection area and higher elevations on the opposite side. Interceptor Pattern An interceptor sewer runs along a major watercourse, collecting wastewater from smaller sewers that run perpendicular to it. - Efficient for drainage basins with a central watercourse. - Minimizes the number of main sewers required. - Requires careful planning and design of the interceptor sewer. - May be more complex to maintain compared to simpler patterns. - Ideal for drainage basins with a central watercourse, especially for collecting wastewater from multiple smaller collection systems. Zonal Pattern The collection area is divided into zones, each with its own local treatment plant or pumping station. Treated wastewater is then conveyed to a central treatment plant for further processing. - Suitable for large or geographically diverse areas. - Allows for phased development of the collection system. - Requires more treatment plants or pumping stations, increasing initial cost. - May require additional infrastructure for conveying treated wastewater to the central plant. - Applicable for large or geographically diverse areas where a single central treatment plant might be impractical. - Useful for phased development of sewage collection systems, allowing for expansion as needed. PATTERN OF SEWAGE COLLECTION
Factor Description Impact on Quantity Calculation Method Example Population Served The total number of people using the sewage system. Directly proportional. Higher population leads to a greater volume of wastewater generated. Per Capita Flow: Multiply population by daily average wastewater flow per person. ( Q = P * q (where Q = total sewage flow, P = population, q = per capita flow) A city with 1 million residents (P) and a daily per capita flow of 150 liters/person (q) would generate an estimated daily sewage flow of Q = 1,000,000 * 150 liters/person = 150,000,000 liters . Water Consumption Rates The average amount of water used per person per day. Directly proportional. Higher water usage translates to a larger volume of wastewater generated. Water Meter Data Analysis: Analyze water meter readings for different categories of users (residential, commercial, industrial) to estimate wastewater generation. A community with an average daily water consumption of 200 liters/person, with 70% residential users, might estimate sewage flow based on residential water usage patterns. Land Use Patterns The predominant types of land use within the area served by the sewage system. Varies depending on land use. Residential areas typically generate more sewage per unit area compared to commercial or industrial areas. Land Use Coefficients: Apply coefficients representing average wastewater generation per unit area for different land use types (e.g., residential: 800 m³/hectare/day , commercial: 400 m³/hectare/day ). (Q = Σ ( Aᵢ * Cᵢ) (where Q = total sewage flow, Aᵢ = area of each land use type, Cᵢ = wastewater generation coefficient for each land use type). A district with 50 hectares of residential area (A₁ = 50 ha) and a coefficient of 800 m³/hectare/day (C₁) for residential wastewater generation, along with 20 hectares of commercial area (A₂ = 20 ha) with a coefficient of 400 m³/hectare/day (C₂) , would have an estimated daily sewage flow: Q = (50 ha * 800 m³/ha/day) + (20 ha * 400 m³/ha/day) = 48,000 m³ . Industrial Wastewater Discharges The amount and type of industrial wastewater entering the sewage system. Can significantly increase both volume and alter the characteristics of sewage. Industrial Flow Monitoring: Monitor and meter the volume and characteristics of industrial wastewater discharged into the system. A food processing plant discharging an average of 10,000 m³ of wastewater per day needs to be factored into the overall sewage flow calculations. QUANTITY OF SEWAGE COLLECTION
DESIGN SEWERS AND DRAINS Factor Description Importance Hydraulic Capacity The ability of sewers and drains to convey the expected wastewater or stormwater flow rates. Crucial to prevent flooding and ensure proper system function. Material Selection Choosing the appropriate material for sewer and drain pipes based on various factors. Strength: Pipes need to withstand internal pressure, external loads (traffic, soil), and installation stresses. – Corrosion Resistance: Sewers and drains can be exposed to corrosive materials (sewage, chemicals) – Cost: Material selection needs to balance performance with economic considerations. Common Pipe Materials Concrete: Durable, strong, good for large diameter sewers. May require corrosion protection for some applications. Plastic (PVC, HDPE): Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, easy to install. Vitrified Clay: Traditionally used, good for smaller diameter pipes, resistant to acids and alkalis. Gradient (Slope) The minimum slope at which sewers and drains are installed to ensure proper flow velocity and prevent blockages. Steeper gradients promote faster flow and reduce clogging risk. - Flatter gradients may be used in some cases, but require careful design to maintain sufficient velocity. Manholes Vertical access points installed at strategic locations along sewers and drains. Facilitate inspection, cleaning, and maintenance activities. - Allow for ventilation of sewer systems to prevent buildup of harmful gases. - Provide access for flow monitoring and troubleshooting. Manhole Spacing The distance between manholes along a sewer or drain line. Depends on pipe diameter, gradient, and anticipated maintenance needs. - Shorter spacing is preferred for larger diameter pipes, flatter gradients, or systems with higher potential for blockages. Additional Considerations Depth of Sewers: Buried deep enough to avoid damage from traffic or freezing temperatures . Trenchless Technologies: Techniques like pipe bursting or horizontal directional drilling can minimize excavation for sewer installation. Environmental Impact: Minimizing excavation and selecting sustainable materials can reduce environmental impact.