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Many and varied industrial processes require the utilisation of water that meets a range of strict criteria. But just as water fed into the plant system must be of a quality acceptable in that sector, so too must the waste generated needs to adhere to environmental standards and regulations. To achieve this, purification and treatment before and after the process may be necessary. One of the popular methods used in an industrial setting is reverse osmosis (RO). Water quality improves significantly after treatment using this method. Understanding the Process Reverse osmosis is a purification method that removes dissolved solids and other dissolved contaminants. The filtration process uses the application of high pressure to force effluent through a semipermeable membrane. The membrane is rolled in a manner similar to a paper towel roll, and wastewater exits the membrane from the opposite end of the incoming flow. Purification takes place as the liquid moves through the membrane. The purified water is collected in a storage tank. RO water quality meets both environmental and industrial standards because the purification process removes 95% - 99% of impurities, including copper, sodium chloride, and calcium, to mention a few. Below are a few benefits of using this process in an industrial setting. 1. There are economic benefits for manufacturing (and other industrial) companies treating their own wastewater. RO water quality is of the highest level, since the system removes a very high percentage of dissolved contaminants. This means that the purified effluent can be reused to carry out other industrial processes. In addition, it can safeguard the company against supply threats such as droughts, price increases, and other environmental issues. 2. Recycling and reusing water (relating to the point above) can provide significant economic advantages. This can redirect expenditure to other departments, reducing operational costs and increasing profitability. 3. In the case of industries that cannot reuse treated wastewater, it can be released back into the environment because RO water quality meets the required environmental standards and regulations. The treated effluent can be discharged safely into municipal drainage systems, streams, and rivers, enhancing the ecosystem without harming animal and plant life. In addition to the above benefits, this method of purification is also beneficial in the following ways: - It’s an eco-friendly way of treating industrial effluent, which means it protects the environment.
- It doesn’t involve the utilisation of hazardous chemicals, which means the only chemicals present in wastewater are generated during industrial processes – so that’s less hazardous wastewater.
- The impurities are captured and disposed of safely, reducing contamination and pollution.
- It reduces energy and water costs drastically and improves plant efficiency.
- It can remove up to 99% of dissolved solids, suspended particles, and bacteria.
The treatment of wastewater used in industrial processes requires methods that guarantee adherence to environmental regulations and standards. The highest level of purity can be achieved by the installation of an RO water quality system, as long as it’s installed by a reputable company experienced in an industrial environment. Author Plate Sean Clifford is an advisor at AllWater Technologies Ltd, a wholly independent company providing consultation and water treatment equipment, including RO water quality treatment plant and systems (reverse osmosis). Bringing together a host of experience and specialist knowledge, the company is committed to building and maintaining long-term relationships and creating maximum value and benefit for their customers.
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RO, water, quality,
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