What does TSS stand for in wastewater treatment?

The term TSS stands for Total Suspended Solids. In wastewater treatment, TSS is a critical measurement that refers to the solid particles suspended in water that can include a variety of materials such as organic matter, sediment, and microorganisms. Monitoring TSS is important because high levels can indicate pollution and can affect the treatment process's efficiency, as well as the quality of the effluent released into the environment.

Understanding TSS also helps in operational decisions regarding the treatment system, such as determining the need for pre-treatment processes, optimization of aeration, and proper sizing of treatment components like clarifiers and filters. Accurate measurement and management of Total Suspended Solids are essential for ensuring that wastewater treatment facilities comply with environmental regulations and operate within their designed capacity.