Microwedge® Sludge Blocks -- Cowiche, Washington

Roberts Microwedge® Systems have been designed to effectively dewater both industrial and municipal sludges. Basins and bed sizes can be adjusted to fit any application, including upgrading an existing sand bed or converting lagoons. The system is flexible enough to handle industrial spikes or heavy surges from digesters and holding tanks. Microwedge® Systems are designed to meet the ever changing demands of the water and wastewater industries by providing an environmentally responsible dewatering system. The operation is simple: flood the bed with thickened sludge, wait for the sludge to dry, and remove the dry sludge cake with a front end loader. Following sludge removal, wash down the bed and repeat the cycle.

The Roberts Filter Group team spoke to Ryan King, Plant Operator for Cowiche Sewer District in Cowiche, Washington about his experience with Microwedge® Sludge Blocks and Roberts Filter Group.

How long have you had our Microwedge® Sludge Blocks in service?

The blocks have been in service since the completion of construction/start up of the plant in 2001. About 50% of the blocks currently in service, are the original blocks from start up. The other half were replaced by myself and my assistant in 2010.

What made you choose Roberts Filter Group and how did you find out about us?

The blocks were put into operation prior to my arrival in 2009.

What process did you have before our Microwedge®

Sludge Blocks?

Prior to the new plant construction in 2001, there was no separate process for biosolids management (as far as i know). It was a flow through "plant" with a series of rather large lagoons.

Why did you move away from that process? What were the reasons or issues that led you away from that process?

The liners in the old lagoons were failing, and the WWTP needed to be upgraded to accommodate the rise in population, and the lack of treatment.

Would you approve of being used as a reference for future customers?

Yes