Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

What is the primary function of a perforated plate screen?

1. Interlocking links, no lower sprocket

2. May be located in a bypass channel

3. Efficiently removes hair and stringy material

4. Single operating cycle

The correct answer is: Efficiently removes hair and stringy material

The primary function of a perforated plate screen is to efficiently remove hair and stringy material from wastewater. This type of screen consists of a series of plates with perforations that allow liquid to pass through while capturing larger solids and debris, effectively preventing these materials from entering further treatment processes. The design is specifically suited for removing fibrous and stringy materials that can cause clogs and operational issues in wastewater treatment plants. The effectiveness of perforated plate screens in retaining such materials is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of treatment equipment, as these contaminants can disrupt the biological processes that follow. Ensuring that hair and stringy substances are filtered out at the screening stage allows the subsequent treatment steps to focus on breaking down organic waste and other pollutants more effectively.