150% Reduction in Effluent Metals for a US Tier 1 Automotive Supplier
BACKGROUND
A Southeastern automotive parts manufacturer was seeing elevated metals levels in their plant effluent wastewater stream. The metals levels (copper, zinc, chromium, and lead) were steadily increasing to a point at which NPDES permit violations could potentially occur. Unable to get the desired support and performance from their current water treatment supplier, they turned to AquaTrol for help.
SOLUTION
AquaTrol’s sales and technical support team conducted an audit of the wastewater treatment facility to determine where changes could be made to enhance metal removal efficiency. Laboratory analysis and jar testing were also conducted to identify the root cause issues and determine the optimal treatment program.
After the audit and consultation, AquaTrol took action to:
- Identify and eliminate the use of chemicals in the plant that were adversely affecting the wastewater treatment, tying up metals and making them difficult to remove.
- Implement best practices around wastewater plant operations and control.
- Implement selected AquaTrol chemistries for wastewater clarification and metals precipitation.
RESULTS
Performance of the wastewater treatment plant improved significantly, eliminating the concern of a potential NPDES permit violation.
- Up to 98% removal of copper
- Up to 96% removal of zinc
- Up to 88% removal of lead
- Up to 80% removal of chromium
Overall, the automotive plant saw over 70% below their permit limit for any metals discharged. Previously they were approaching their limits on several metals.