Inside the BioCycle System
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Receiving Chamber - Anaerobic (without air)
All household waste is received into this first chamber. Anaerobic digestion of solids occurs as a primary treatment, achieving a reduction in the Biological Oxygen Demand (B.O.D.) level (organic loading). This chamber also receives sludge returned from the clarification chamber. The introduction of aerated/activated sludge from the clarification chamber promotes the digestion of solids.
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Aeration Chamber - Aerobic (with air)
The partially treated waste flows from the receiving chamber to the aeration chamber. Air is supplied by a blower and distributed evenly via diffusers.
The aeration chamber contains a submerged media upon which bacteria grows. A film of bacteria and algal matrix develops on the media, providing biological treatment.
Aerobic bacterial action results in a continuous reduction of growth, breaks down nearly all the remaining solids.
In the BioCycle system, the capacity of this chamber allows a 24-hour detention time for incoming waste (16 hours is generally sufficient).
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Clarification Chamber (Settling)
After aeration, the effluent flows into the clarification chamber and is allowed to settle.
Any bacterial sludge settles to the bottom, where it is picked up and returned to the primary chamber. The method of a continuous sludge return to the primary chamber provides a continuous supply of 'food' to the bacteria and ensures a healthy system during periods of zero flow or extended vacancy of a residence. It also results in a slower rate of sludge accummulation in the receiving chamber.
Denitrification will also occur in this stage.
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Irrigation Chamber (Pump) - Chlorination Optional
From the clarification chamber, the aerated and settled effluent is drawn off at below the surface level and flows to the pump chamber.
The water is retained in this chamber to ensure adequate contact time with the chlorine. Finally, it is pumped to the landscaped areas of the garden or to a designated on-site disposal area.