Flow sheets describing various unit processes associated with wastewater treatment and sludge handling are presented. Curves depicting total, O and M and amortized capital cost in cents per thousand gallons influent wastewater are shown for plant capacities ranging from 1-100 MGD. The unit processes described, for which cost data were developed, include conventional and advanced wastewater treatment units as well as most sludge handling and processing units. Diagrams are presented which show logical combinations of the unit processes to form complete wastewater treatment systems capable of achieving various levels of effluent quality. From these diagrams, alternative wastewater treatment systems capable of achieving the same effluent quality can be selected, and costs of the systems can be determined by referring to the unit process cost curves. The data provide a guide for planners, engineers, and decision makers at all levels of government to evaluate cost-effectiveness of alternative wastewater treatment proposals.

Report prepared by Bechtel, Inc. for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Water Programs Operations under contract 68-01-0973. EPA report no. EPA-420/9-75-002. Microfiche.