On its way to secondary treatment, the phosphate concentration of the effluent is tested. After the amount of phosphate in the water has been tested, EPA standards for phosphate concentrations are met by chemically reacting ferrous sulfate with the phosphate. The sludge is now contained within the micro-organisms and is pumped to another settling tank with the effluent. The micro-organisms settle to the bottom where they are collected and sent to a sludge thickening tank. The effluent remaining after the solids have settled is sent to a chlorinating tank.
Chlorine is added to disinfect the wastewater and to kill pathogenic organisms.
Once chlorinated, the effluent can be safely pumped back into the environment. The sludge in the thickening tanks is sent to holding tanks or to the incinerator. Once in the incinerator, the sludge is dewatered of all liquid and is incinerated at temperatures of 1230 to 1300 degrees Farenheit. The leftover ash is then sent to the landfill.