Water Reclamation Facility

Water Reclamation Facility

• History of the WRF
• Learn How Akron Treats Wastewater
• Industrial Pretreatment Section
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• Fats, Oil & Grease (FOG) Program

INTRODUCTION
 
Technology gives us the capability to treat wastewater so that the processed water can be safely returned to the environment. The City of Akron Water Reclamation Facility utilizes proven treatment processes such as the Activated Sludge process. The existing plant has been in continuous service since 1928. There have been, and continue to be, numerous expansions and improvements to the Akron facility to keep up with changing environmental conditions and restrictions.

POPULATION SERVED and CAPACITIES
 
The City of Akron treats its own wastewater and that of several neighboring communities. The total area served is about 96 square miles with an estimated population of 330,000. Neighboring communities served include Cuyahoga Falls, Stow, Springfield, Mogadore, Lakemore, Tallmadge, Fairlawn, Bath, Montrose and some unincorporated areas in the county.

The daily average flow to the plant in 2021 was 65.7 MGD, with peak flows (rain, snow/thaw) reaching 256 MGD. Part of the collection system has combined sewers, which means sanitary wastewater and stormwater is carried to the treatment plant through the same pipes.

SUPPORT SERVICES

There are dozens of support activities performed daily to ensure the wastewater treatment processes operate correctly and efficiently. For example, a complete laboratory is staffed with chemists and technicians who conduct continuous tests as a quality control measure.

A computerized distributive control system (DCS) aids in control and optimization of each step of treatment. Maintenance and repair of the complete process is carried out routinely by teams of mechanics and technicians.