Session Details
Session 8: Innovations for Improving Productivity
Abstract Number:
129
The audience will be educated on key best practices to prevent common errors in wastewater treatment. The goal would be to help key staff identify areas of improvement along with reducing the level of effort treating wastewater. These improvements will help facilities prevent fines and/or surcharges and prevent interruption of production.
Topics:
Managing Water Usage/Waste Management Minimization
The goal of a wastewater treatment system is to control the release of contaminants to the receiving body (regulated by NPDES or pretreatment permit). The most common wastewater system in the surface finishing industry employees a physical chemical separation via precipitation. Often plants will have periodic exceedances as a failure to optimize clarification and solids management. The chemistry of the precipitation can be correct, but if the clarifier carries solids to the drain, the concentrated contaminants will be released (causing a violation). This is highlighted by 24 hour composite sampling that is frequently applied by regulatory authorities. The system can be running well, with a clear water break and compliant testing for 23 of 24 hours, but an hour of carryover will push wastewater operations out of compliance, risking fines and pollution.
Two critical areas of clarification are solids management and proper application of flocculants. A body of best practices and typical pitfalls will be discussed in these areas.
Flocculants are available in several varieties and their application is dependent upon plant conditions. Application of flocculants is the critical first steps in clarification. This presentation will cover selection, application, make-down and storage of flocculants. With a consistent floc, one can then focus on a solids management program. Critical to the success of a solids management plan, is to be sure it fits the needs and nature of the facility. This discussion involves the balance between solids loading, clarification, and dewatering operations to ensure ongoing compliance.