How it Works FAST^®

Although the FAST^® line of treatment systems has expanded to include a wide range of variable flow and treatment applications, the process is very much the same as was developed in the 1970s. From the MicroFAST^®, providing treatment for single-family dwellings, to the Field-Erected FAST^®, which handles 50,000 GPD to 1.5 MGD, Fixed Activated Sludge Treatment has been proven repeatedly as an effective advanced treatment process. 

With three treatment steps in one tank, FAST^® is just plain smart for on-site, subsurface discharge and other wastewater treatment applications. Influent enters the system and encounters submerged media in an aeration tank. Bacteria become "fixed" or attached to the media, enabling growth with a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, which prevents hydraulic shock loads from washing out the microbial population. A zone underneath the media exists for the bacteria to slough off and settle for further digestion in an anaerobic environment. FAST^® produces a secondary effluent that is significantly better than a traditional septic system.

Aeration

The air supply and draft tube creates a vigorous, even circulation of the wastewater throughout the FAST^® media.

Clarification

Rapid settling of sloughed solids from the aeration zone, keeping sludge away from the media.

Digestion

Anaerobic conditions enable higher life forms to further digest settled sludge, lowering the need for sludge removal.

Other Process Resources

• For detailed analysis and animated diagrams of the MicroFAST^®, click here.
• For analysis of the FAST^® process for marine applications, click here.
• For any additional information on the FAST^® process or product line, please visit www.smithandloveless.com or click to the FAST^® Contacts page to get information on contacting a specific FAST^® Systems Representative.