Successful Technical Field Trip to Three Wastewater Treatment Plants with Quaternary Treatment
With nearly 30 participants from wastewater utilities, engineering consultancies, and technology providers, this year's technical field trip was a great success. The strong interest highlighted the growing demand for practical insights into micropollutant removal technologies and the operation of quaternary treatment systems.
The excursion began at 8:30 a.m. in Stuttgart-Weilimdorf and took participants to three municipal wastewater treatment plants in Baden-Württemberg that either already operate quaternary treatment or have recently commissioned their advanced treatment facilities:
- Böblingen/Sindelfingen Wastewater Treatment Plant – Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC)
- Herrenberg Wastewater Treatment Plant – Ozonation
- Deißlingen Wastewater Treatment Plant – Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)
At each site, participants gained valuable insights into different treatment concepts and operational approaches. Guided by experienced experts, they had the opportunity to discuss technical questions directly with plant operators and specialists, providing a comprehensive overview of current developments, practical experience, and operational challenges.
A particular highlight was the opportunity to observe and compare different implementation approaches under real operating conditions. This encouraged not only knowledge transfer but also valuable dialogue between plant operators, consultants, and technology suppliers.
The group returned to Stuttgart at around 6:00 p.m. with many new impressions and practical insights.
We would like to express our sincere thanks to the wastewater treatment plants for their warm hospitality and to all participants for their active engagement, thoughtful discussions, and valuable contributions. Once again, the excursion demonstrated the importance of networking and practical exchange in advancing the water sector.
Photo credit: Leischner Photographie