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An
aerobic treatment unit (ATU) treats wastewater using
natural processes that require oxygen. Most ATUs include a
pretreatment step to reduce the amount of solids entering
the aerobic unit. This pretreatment step could be a septic
tank, primary settling compartment as part of the ATU, or
a trash trap. Wastewater then enters the aeration compartment
of the ATU where an air blower or compressor mixes air (oxygen)
with the wastewater. Aerobic bacteria break down and remove
some of the solids. Remaining solids are then allowed to settle
out prior to the next treatment step. Depending on the design
of the system, settling of solids may occur in a separate
compartment or be allowed to accumulate in the bottom of the
tank and may need to be pumped out periodically. Further treatment
and/or disinfection is needed prior to final dispersal back
into the environment.
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