Background & task

Specialty chemicals regularly produce complex wastewater containing dissolved metals, AOX compounds, hydrocarbons and, in some cases, chromium(VI). These substances place high demands on wastewater technology and require targeted chemical-physical pre-treatment.

Around 20 m³ of process wastewater is produced every week at the Leipzig production site, which must be treated in accordance with Annex 40 of the German Wastewater Ordinance. In order to modernize the existing technology and optimize process control, a new ALMA CHEM MCW batch plant from ALMAWATECH was installed and has now been successfully put into operation.

Technical design of our CP system

The ALMA CHEM MCW was designed specifically for the project and combines several treatment steps in one robust batch technology:

  • Precipitation & flocculation: Use of ALMA Additive NS and ALMA Additive OS for maximum precipitation efficiency

  • Primary precipitant & neutralization: ALMA Floc FE40 in combination with ALMA Lime

  • Flocculant: ALMA FHM A10 for the formation of stable flocs

  • All process additives used come from our own product line ALMA AQUA - for maximum efficiency and operational reliability.

  • Sludge dewatering: via a chamber filter press, which significantly reduces the sludge volume

  • Post-treatment: via an ALMA FIL gravel filter for the retention of fine particles

  • Polishing: through an ALMA ION ion exchangerespecially for the safe removal of chromium(VI)

Advantages for the operator

The new system offers several advantages for the customer:

  • Reliable compliance with the limit values according to Annex 40

  • High operational reliability thanks to clearly structured process control

  • Reduced sludge consumption thanks to efficient dewatering

  • Flexibility with fluctuating wastewater volumes (approx. 20 m³/week)

  • Sustainability & future-proof thanks to modular expandability

Conclusion

With the successful commissioning of the ALMA CHEM MCW CP plant ALMAWATECH is once again demonstrating its expertise in chemical-physical wastewater treatment for the specialty chemicals industry.
The project shows how the targeted use of precipitants, flocculants and state-of-the-art plant technology can create a stable, efficient and economical solution - with clear ecological and economic benefits.

Splitting plant for waste water treatment

Photo: Our ALMA BHU EGSB reactor