The following is a wastewater math practice problem regarding Sludge Volume Index, also known as SVI. Most of the time, these problems are not complicated, but make sure you understand the formula that is used to calculate it. In order to prepare for your operator exam, try to work on many wastewater math practice problems to increase your chances of success.
Practice Probem 1:
Find the SVI if the settleability of one liter of MLSS was 285 mL after 30 minutes, and the MLSS concentration was 2,380 mg/L.
Known:
Settled sludge volume per sample = 285 mL/L
MLSS = 2,380 mg/L
Solve for:
SVI = ?
Step 1:
Step 2:
SVI = 120 mL/g
As you can see, SVI problems tend to fairly straight-forward. It’s a matter of using the SVI formula and plugging in what you were given. The hardest part is understanding which numbers from the problem statement goes in the top and bottom of the formula.
The numbers used in the equation come from lab tests, so the exam question will typically give them to you. Make sure you understand the concept of how these numbers are obtained in lab, and you should be able to solve the problem.