Abstract: The present invention deals with wastewater treatment systems, and more particularly with trickling filter systems using distribution tubes or arms rotating about a central point above filter beds to distribute wastewater thereto. The present invention comprises an auxiliary or backup motor drive mechanism for a rotary wastewater distributor and includes a prime mover, preferably an electric motor, a transmission system, preferably a sprocket and chain drive, and a sensing system to turn the auxiliary drive system on when flow rates are too low to maintain the normal hydraulically driven rotation of the distributor. The auxiliary drive system further comprises protective mechanisms to turn the prime mover off whenever speeds afforded by the wastewater flow are adequate for proper distributor operation or whenever the auxiliary drive system is overloaded due to a failure of rotation of the distributor.

Abstract: A sector body for use in a rotary disc dewatering apparatus is provided with a radially extending groove on each of its opposing faces. Any slackness in a filter medium fabric covering the sector body is gathered into the radial grooves. A caulking compound is applied over the filter medium in the radial grooves to maintain tautness of the filter medium.