Influent wastewater gets into the system through the anoxic /equalization tank

Influent wastewater gets into the system through the anoxic /equalization tank. It has sludge storage and settling zones that serve as primary clarifiers before the SAGB. Wastewater flows by gravity from the anoxic tank into the SAGB. Hydrostatic pressure from different liquid levels acts as the forward driving force with regard to the forward flow of the wastewater. This action of making use of generated energy is with regard to the first principle of good management in wastewater treatment processes.

The reactor is made up of: “an underdrain, support gravel, filters media and a backwash trough” (Pedros & Dobie 2006). The underdrain at the bottom of the reactor is an important component of the reactor as it offers support to the media. It also allows an equal evenly distribution of water and air throughout the reactor. The delivery of air and water to the bottom of the reactor occurs simultaneously or separately through individual pathways. The design of the SAGB enhances this (Pedros & Dobie, 2006).