Overview
This lecture explains the processes involved in a Water Treatment Plant (WTP), focusing on coagulation and flocculation as key steps in purifying water for safe use.
Introduction to Water Treatment Plants (WTP)
- WTPs (also called IPA in Indonesian) are facilities that clean raw water to produce safe, potable water.
- The treatment process removes physical, chemical, and biological contaminants from water sources.
Overview of Water Treatment Stages
- Major stages include screening, coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection.
- Each stage targets different types of contaminants for effective purification.
Coagulation Process
- Coagulation is the process of adding chemicals (coagulants) to water to destabilize and aggregate suspended particles.
- Common coagulants include alum (aluminum sulfate) and ferric chloride.
Flocculation Process
- Flocculation follows coagulation and involves gentle mixing to form larger particle clusters (flocs) that settle more easily.
- Flocculators (mechanical or hydraulic) are used to aid floc formation.
Importance of Coagulation & Flocculation
- These processes are essential for removing colloidal and suspended solids that cannot be removed by filtration alone.
- Effective coagulation and flocculation improve water clarity and reduce load on downstream treatment units.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Water Treatment Plant (WTP) — facility where raw water is processed to make it safe for use.
- Coagulation — addition of chemicals to destabilize small particles so they can stick together.
- Coagulant — chemical used in coagulation (e.g., alum).
- Flocculation — gentle mixing to form larger clusters (flocs) from destabilized particles.
- Floc — aggregated particle cluster formed during flocculation.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review diagrams of the water treatment process, focusing on coagulation and flocculation stages.
- Prepare questions on coagulant types and flocculation mechanisms for discussion.