Abstract
In this study, effects of five raw water quality parameters (turbidity, odor compounds caused by algae, filter clogging caused by algae, pH increase caused by algae, and organic matter) on improvements and operations costs of typical water treatment plant (WTP) were estimated. The raw water quality parameters were assumed the worst possible conditions based on the past data and costs were subsequently estimated. Results showed that new water treatment facilities were needed, such as a selective intake system, an advanced water treatment processes, a dual media filter, a carbonation facility, and a re-chlorination facility depending on water quality. Furthermore, changes needed to be made in WTP operations, such as adding powered activated carbon, increasing the injection of chlorine, adding coagulation aid, increasing the discharge of backwashed water, and increasing the operation time of dewatering facilities. Such findings showed that to reliably produce high-quality tap water and reduce water treatment costs, continuous improvements to the quality of water sources are needed.
