ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the pilot plant study and the design of the anaerobic filter and describes the operation of the anaerobic filter since startup. The leachate pretreatment system was designed with substantial operating flexibility in case leachate characteristics changed or if other industrial wastes are accepted for treatment. The liquid manure provided an excellent seed as shown by the very rapid startup of the Omega Hills system; however, it is recommended that all straw be removed before adding manure to an anaerobic system. Leachate is piped from the landfill directly to the equalization tank; a truck unloading station can be used to pump other wastes to the tank. The use of a coil type heat exchanger offers the advantages of ease in cleaning and reduced problems with plugging where it can be used. The basic cause of operating difficulties is the small volume of leachate available for treatment.
