Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

An accumulation of heavy, inorganic grit particles downstream indicates what in a grit chamber?

1. Too low of a velocity

2. Optimal operating conditions

3. Velocity is too high

4. Proper maintenance has been performed

The correct answer is: Velocity is too high

The accumulation of heavy, inorganic grit particles downstream in a grit chamber typically indicates that the velocity of the flow is too high. In a grit chamber, the goal is to allow heavier particles, such as grit and sand, to settle out of the wastewater. Each grit chamber is designed to operate at a specific flow velocity that allows for efficient sedimentation of these particles. If the velocity is too high, the flow does not provide sufficient time for these heavier particles to settle, causing them to be carried downstream instead of being collected in the chamber. This results in a buildup of grit downstream as particles are not effectively being removed from the flow. Proper operation of a grit chamber requires careful monitoring of the flow rates to ensure that the conditions are conducive for sedimentation, allowing for effective grit removal.