Eighteen months after installation, the Esmil MDQ-503(2)CS multi-disk screw press at the Bryan Wastewater Treatment in Bryan, Ohio, is proving to be a reliable, efficient and forward-thinking solution for sludge dewatering.
Replacing unreliable technology
The municipal plant faced ongoing issues with an aging centrifuge used to dewater anaerobic sludge. In 2023, after evaluating multiple options, the plant chose to replace the system with an Esmil MDQ-503(2)CS multi-disk screw press — citing its modular design, operational simplicity, and ultra-low running costs as major deciding factors.
Commissioned on Feb. 27, 2024, the installation included:
- One MDQ-503(2)CS multi-disc screw press
- One control panel
- One neat polymer feeder
- One flowmeter
All components are fully integrated and managed through the press’s main control panel for seamless, automated operation.
Designed for today and tomorrow
The Bryan system features a three-drum frame with two drums installed, offering immediate capacity plus easy future expansion. As a 500-series press, it uses the largest-diameter drums in the industry, giving it higher throughput potential and outstanding cake dryness, even with challenging anaerobic sludge.
Since commissioning, the system has produced cake solids consistently in the 20% range, with neat polymer usage under 30 pounds per ton of dry solids. The plant has not needed to replace or repair a single component, reinforcing the unit’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance.
The largest screw press drums on the market
One of the standout features of the MDQ-503(2)CS at Bryan WWTP is its inclusion in the MDQ-500 series — Esmil’s largest and most powerful multi-disk screw press line. The 500-series features the widest-diameter dewatering drums available in the industry, which translates to higher throughput, more efficient dewatering, and better cake dryness even at lower operating speeds.
For facilities handling high volumes of thickened or anaerobically digested sludge, the size advantage delivers real-world performance benefits:
- Larger dewatering drum delivers higher capacity and superior dewatering performance without increasing system footprint
- Reduced energy demand per pound of dry solids produced
- Enhanced structural stability for long-term, continuous-duty operations
The MDQ-500 platform is built for growth and future scalability. Bryan WWTP’s decision to install two drums on a three-drum frame ensures they are ready to expand as demand increases — without the need for a full equipment overhaul.
The Bryan WWTP project is yet another successful deployment in a growing list of Esmil installations across the United States. With robust performance, expandability, and efficient operation, the MDQ-503(2)CS proves that smart design and U.S.-based manufacturing make a powerful combination for wastewater treatment.
Made in Ohio, built to comply
Esmil designs and builds sludge dewatering systems at its U.S. production and support facility in Ohio. All equipment is fully compliant with Build America, Buy America (BABA) provisions and meets the highest standards required for municipal procurement across the United States.
With in-state production, local service support, and shorter lead times, Esmil continues to demonstrate how American-built solutions can deliver exceptional long-term value to utility operators.
Learn more about Esmil’s dewatering solutions at www.esmil.us or call 646-286-5512.
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