Reliable, Low-Energy Biological Treatment

ClearStream delivers high-performance trickling filter systems and rotary distributors engineered for long-term reliability, low energy use, and consistent treatment results. Designed for municipal and industrial wastewater applications, our systems combine proven biological processes with modern mechanical precision—giving operators confidence in performance and maintenance.

Whether upgrading aging infrastructure or building new treatment capacity, ClearStream provides equipment built right, delivered right, and supported right—because it always matters.

Fixed-film Biological Treatment

ClearStream trickling filter is a fixed-film biological treatment process that uses media (plastic, rock, or ceramic) to support microbial growth. Wastewater is distributed across the media surface, allowing bacteria to naturally break down organic material.

This simple but powerful process delivers:

  • Consistent BOD removal
  • Effective nitrification
  • Strong resistance to shock loads and toxins
  • Lower operational complexity compared to activated sludge systems

ClearStream distributors are either mechanically or hydraulicly driven.  Speed-control allows normal operational speeds ranging from 4 to 10 minutes per revolution. More importantly, the speed-control distributor allows a regular (daily or weekly) “flushing” speed that slows the distributor to more than 60 minutes per revolution. This flush of the media is required for optimum performance of the unit.

Flexible Treatment Applications

ClearStream trickling filters are engineered for a wide range of treatment goals:

Roughing Filters

  • High-strength wastewater
  • 40–80% BOD reduction

Carbon Oxidation

  • Moderate loading
  • Reliable BOD polishing

Combined BOD & Nitrification

  • Low effluent limits
  • Optimized biological performance

Dedicated Nitrification

  • Ammonia reduction to very low levels

Multiple media types supported:

  • Plastic media (cross-flow, vertical flow)
  • Rock and gravel
  • Ceramic or specialty media
  • Simple, reliable, biological process.
  • Suitable in small areas without room for land intensive treatment systems.
  • Effective in treating high concentrations of organics
    depending on the media type.
  • Resistant to Shock Loads and Toxins. Not a mixed
    system, toxin affects localized. Recycle averages out
    shock loads.
  • Appropriate for small to medium sized communities
  • Rapidly reduce soluble BOD5  in applied wastewater.
  • Waste sludge easy to dewater, primarily sloughed
    off bio layer.
  • Settles and dewaters better than activated sludge
  • Efficient nitrification units.
  • Durable components—Low Maintenance
  • Low Energy requirements, do not typically require

Built for Longevity and Consistent Coverage

At the heart of every trickling filter system is the rotary distributor—and this is where ClearStream stands apart.

Our ClearFlo™ Rotary Distributors deliver:

Advanced Drive Design

  • Low-speed, direct-coupled gear drives
  • Oil-bath enclosed systems for durability
  • Designed for decades of continuous operation

No Lower Bearing = Fewer Failures

ClearStream eliminates one of the most common failure points:

  • No lower bearing required
  • Oversized pinion bearings for long-term reliability

Intelligent Speed Control

  • Adjustable rotation speeds (typically 4–10 minutes per revolution)
  • Slow “flush mode” (>60 minutes per revolution) to optimize media performance
  • Improved distribution uniformity and system longevity

High-Efficiency Gear Systems

  • Planetary and helical reducers for improved efficiency
  • Reduced power consumption
  • Long design life (L10 life exceeding 100 years for precision bearing drives)

Typical Trickling Filter Flow Diagram

3D Models of Every Project

ClearStream develops a detailed 3D model for every unit manufactured, ensuring accurate fit-up and seamless integration with site-specific layouts. These models also serve as a valuable tool for operator training and system familiarization, providing clear insight into unit design and operation.

Clients are provided access to the 3D models, allowing them to view and manipulate the equipment from their own office or facility. This capability enables operations and maintenance personnel to virtually inspect the unit, plan maintenance activities, and understand internal components—without draining the tank or interrupting operation.

Continue to explore

Case Studies

Let’s Solve Your Process Treatment Challenge

+1 801 676 1890

info@clearstreameng.com

Speak with a ClearStream engineer about your process needs. We’ll help you identify the best solution for your system and application.