RBC Plants
Efficient, Robust, and Sustainable RBC Water TreatmentÂ
The KEE Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) is a time-tested solution for high-quality wastewater processing. By utilising a “fixed-film” biological process, our RBC wastewater systems provide a stable and resilient environment for bacteria to break down organic matter.
Unlike power-intensive aeration systems, the KEE RBC is engineered for exceptionally low energy consumption and whisper-quiet operation, making it the preferred choice for residential developments, hotels, and environmentally sensitive sites.
The Science of RBC Water Treatment
At the heart of the KEE RBC system is a series of closely spaced circular discs mounted on a central shaft. As the shaft rotates at a slow, controlled speed, the discs are alternately exposed to wastewater and air.
This process creates a massive surface area for a robust biological film (biomass) to grow. During the submerged phase, the biomass absorbs nutrients and organic pollutants; during the atmospheric phase, it is naturally aerated. This mechanical simplicity is what makes RBC water treatment far more stable and energy-efficient than traditional “bubble” aeration or activated sludge processes.
Engineered for Longevity
KEE Process designs RBC wastewater plants with “lifetime value” in mind. Our systems are built using high-specification materials, including:
- Corrosion-Resistant Shafts: Designed to withstand the harsh environment of a treatment plant.
- High-Density Media: Providing the maximum surface area for biological growth within a compact footprint.
- Robust Drive Assemblies: Heavy-duty motors and gearboxes for continuous 24/7 operation.
Versatile Applications
The scalability of our RBC technology makes it suitable for a diverse range of sectors:
- Small Communities: Ideal for rural housing estates where noise and odour must be kept to an absolute minimum.
- Leisure & Tourism: Perfect for campsites and hotels where seasonal peaks (shock loads) would overwhelm lesser systems.
- Industrial Pre-treatment: Effective for reducing BOD levels before discharge into the municipal sewer system.
Comprehensive Support & Maintenance
A KEE RBC is an investment in compliance. To ensure your system continues to meet Environment Agency or local authority discharge standards, KEE offers bespoke maintenance packages. From routine mechanical inspections to biomass health checks and full system refurbishments, our nationwide team of British Water-accredited engineers ensures your RBC wastewater plant operates at peak efficiency for decades to come.
FAQs
Can RBC water treatment handle nutrient removal?
Modern RBC (Rotating Biological Contactor) water treatment systems are highly effective at nitrification, which is the process of removing ammonia. Additionally, these systems can be configured to remove phosphorus. This capability makes them particularly suitable for sites that need to comply with strict environmental discharge permits from the Environment Agency or local water authorities.
Are RBC plants suitable for seasonal sites like campsites or hotels?
One of the greatest strengths of RBC water treatment is its capacity to manage variable loads effectively. Since the bacteria remain attached to the discs (known as fixed-film), the biomass is not washed away during periods of high flow. This makes it an ideal solution for pubs, hotels, and holiday parks, where water usage can fluctuate from week to week.
What are the main advantages of RBC water treatment?
Compared to standard aeration systems, RBC (Rotating Biological Contactor) water treatment offers several key benefits for operators:
- Low Energy Consumption: The slow shaft rotation requires significantly less power than high-pressure air blowers.
- Quiet and Odourless Operation: These units operate almost silently and, when properly maintained, produce no unpleasant odours.
Stable Performance: The fixed-film biomass is highly resilient to “shock loads” and flow fluctuations, making it more stable than suspended-growth systems.
