Case studies

CHEMICAL INDUSTRY, SOUTH AFRICA

Electro-coagulation is selected for arsenic removal and groundwater remediation.

THE CHALLENGE

A chemical manufacturer required the treatment of arsenic contaminated ground water at their site. The product water needed be of a quality acceptable for discharge to an industrial sewer and comply with the regulative guidelines in terms of arsenic disposal.

OUR SOLUTION

PROXA was involved from the onset of the project. We evaluated a number of different technologies – and after completing pilot test work – we selected and installed electro-coagulation.

HOW PROXA ADDED VALUE

In addition to the groundwater remediation contract, PROXA is responsible for the operations and maintenance supervision of the water treatment plant. This includes technical support and optimisation of the associated lifecycle costs.

FEED WATER

Contaminated underground water

PRODUCT WATER

Compliant water for discharge to industrial sewer

PERFORMANCE TARGET

Product flow rate: 72 kl/day
Granular activated carbon (GAC)
Arsenic < 5 ppm
Availability: 90%

PROCESS

Lamella clarification
Granular activated carbon (GAC)
Electro coagulation
Sand filtration
Sludge dewatering

PROCESS RELIABILITY

In dealing with variable feed streams such as contaminated ground and mine water, process robustness and operational flexibility is of critical importance in continuously meeting environmental discharge requirements. Through our in-house process development laboratory, PROLAB®, and the support of PROSERV® – which optimises life cycle costs for chemicals, consumables and spares – we are able to assist with the rapidly changing requirements of mining clients.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

PROXA has a proven track record of working together with all stakeholders to ensure the protection of the environment.