Glossary of Water and Wastewater Terms

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5 random terms from our glossary

Watt

A unit of power equal to one joule per second. The power of a current of one ampere flowing across a potential difference of one volt.

Simulate

To reproduce the action of some process, usually on a smaller scale.

Supernatant (soo-per-NAY-tent)

The relatively clear water layer between the sludge on the bottom and the scum on the surface of a tank or basin, an anaerobic digester, or a septic tank (interceptor). This water from an anaerobic digester is usually returned to the influent wet well or to the primary clarifier. If the water (supernatant) is from a septic tank, it is discharged by gravity or by a pump to a leaching system or a wastewater collection system. Also called clear zone.

Surfaced Void

A dip or depression in the ground that appears when silting has taken place to a degree that a void is caused in the subsoil. Through successive cave-ins, the void reaches the surface of the ground.

Bedding Destruction

Loss of grade, load capacity, or material of a bedding.