Triple A Deploys MPC-Buoys for Algae Control at River Intake in Colombia

Triple A S.A. E.S.P., the utility supplying drinking water to approximately 15 municipalities in the Barranquilla region, has installed two MPC-Buoys at the Dársena Río Magdalena, a river intake on the Magdalena River, to address algae at the source before treatment.

Context: Algae risk at river intakes

The Magdalena River is Colombia's primary freshwater source for Barranquilla and surrounding communities. Raw water is collected in the semi enclosed basin of the Dársena Río Magdalena before being pumped to five drinking water treatment facilities. The basin's slower water movement fosters algae growth and sediment accumulation. The river carries heavy sediment loads and wastewater discharges from domestic, industrial, and commercial sources, and heavy rainfall further increases sediment inflow, increasing the burden on downstream treatment and operating costs.

Operational trigger

Residents raised concerns about taste, smell, and appearance of tap water, drawing attention from local authorities including the mayor and the Senate. Internally, algae buildup inside large settling tanks required regular shutdowns for cleaning and elevated chemical dosing, with reductions in chemical use being a key benefit reported for ultrasonic approaches.

Deployment and technology

Two MPC-Buoys were deployed at the Dársena Río Magdalena to address algae growth directly at the intake. Each MPC-Buoy emits ultrasonic waves that disrupt algae buoyancy so they sink and break down in the water column, without chemicals and without harming aquatic life. The buoys continuously monitor water quality, providing operators with real-time data on basin conditions.

Expected outcomes

By controlling algae at the river intake, the system reduces the frequency of settling tank cleanouts and lowers chemical dosing, improving drinking water quality and taste for the communities served. The installation comprises two MPC-Buoys at the intake.

Looking ahead

Over the coming months, Triple A and LG Sonic will assess impacts on algae levels, treatment efficiency, and chemical use. This project demonstrates the value of targeting algae control at river intakes as an effective first line of defense for drinking water utilities and may inform similar installations across Colombia and Latin America.