Glossary of Water and Wastewater Terms
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z5 random terms from our glossary
air test
A method of inspecting a sewer pipe for leaks. Inflatable or similar plugs are placed in the line and the space between these plugs is pressurized with air. A drop in pressure indicates the line or run being tested has leaks.
biosurvey
A survey of the types and numbers of organisms naturally present in the receiving waters upstream and downstream from plant effluents. Comparisons are made between the aquatic organisms upstream and those organisms downstream of the discharge.
pipe run
(1) The length of wastewater collection pipe reaching from 1 manhole to the next. Also see barrel. (2) Any length of pipe, generally assumed to be in a straight line.tertiary treatment (TER-she-air-ee)
Individual or a combination of processes used in addition to conventional secondary wastewater treatment to meet the quality requirements for specific situations such as reuse, irrigation, or discharge to sensitive receiving waters. Also see advanced waste treatment.
buffer action
The action of certain ions in solution in opposing a change in hydrogen ion concentration.