WQA Academy

General

 Volume calculations are the most basic and frequently encountered type of math problems associated with the operation of a water or wastewater plant.

 Two volume formulas are basic to more than 50% of all math problems encountered, and they are, as follows:

 ●          The right cylinder formula for cylindrical geometrical objects and,

 ●          The rectangular basin formula for rectangular geometrical objects.

Two lessons will cover the basics of geometry in relationship with cylinders and rectangular basin for applied mathematics for both water and wastewater operators, grades 1-2.

This class is designed to lay the groundwork for basic mathematical skills used by Water or Wastewater Plant Operators. The topics covered in this class will help treatment plant operators to solve basic conversion problems and prepare for state examinations.

Topics covered:

• Elementary math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)

• Rounding numbers

• Decimals
• Basic geometry (area, perimeter)
• Simple equations
• Complex equations

General

            All chemical dose in water plant operations are computed by weight.  The pound is the common unit of weight used in U.S. water and wastewater plants.

 The Pounds Formula

 The Pounds Formula is written mathematically, as follows:

Dose, Lbs = (Volume, MG) (Concentration, mg/L) (8.34 lbs/gallon)

 It is often necessary to convert gallons to million gallons per day in order to utilize the Pounds Formula.  This is accomplished by dividing any quantity of "gallons" by 1,000,000 gallons.  If the quantity being converted is less than 1.0 million gallons, the answer will be in the form of a decimal fraction, like, 0.750 MG for 750,000 gallons.  For quantities which exceed 1.0 million gallons, the answer will take on the form of a whole number, plus a decimal fraction, such as, 1.75 MG for 1,750,000 gallons.

 The Davidson Pie Chart

             There are four parts to the Pounds Formula.  Given any three of the knowns, the fourth unknown can be calculated.  The Davidson Pie Chart shown on the following page can help operators keep terms in their proper place and quickly solve for the fourth unknown.

Representative math questions for Wastewater Treatment Operators, grade 1 and 2. These questions covering the following topics

Ponds and Lagoons

Evaporation Loss

Percolation Loss

Step by step answers are also provided for each question.