Zero effluent discharge system for solvent extraction plants
In solvent extraction plants, managing wastewater disposal presents significant operational and environmental challenges. Plant managers must manage water waste effectively to reduce environmental impact and operational costs, while also optimizing plant efficiency.
Eliminate wastewater and recycle steam
The Crown Zero Effluent Discharge System (ZED) is designed to eliminate wastewater from solvent extraction plants by concentrating water waste in specially designed pressure vessels. The system converts this waste into 40 psig steam that can be recycled within the extraction plant. Additionally, blowdown water from the cooling tower can be added, leading to further savings. By increasing the amount of condensate returned to the boiler from 40% to 80% of total steam consumption, the ZED system substantially reduces energy costs for preheating make-up water. This system also minimizes chemical treatment costs for the boiler, virtually eliminates wastewater disposal fees, and simplifies the plant permit application process by removing a major effluent source. The system supplies 75–100% of the sparge steam required for typical Desolventizer-Toaster operations, potentially enhancing meal drying, decreasing solvent loss, and increasing the digestible protein in the final product. The ZED system, supplied by Crown Iron Works, can also incorporate additional wastewater sources for recycling.
Benefits
- Reduces energy costs by increasing condensate return to 80%
- Minimizes chemical treatment costs for boiler make-up water
- Eliminates wastewater disposal fees
- Simplifies plant permit application process
- Supplies most of the sparge steam needed, enhancing meal drying and reducing solvent loss