Industrial Effluent Treatment Plant

Pre-treatment (Screening and Filtration):

• Screening: Large solid particles (e.g., plastic, wood, and metal pieces) are removed using mesh screens or other mechanical devices.
• Filtration: Suspended solids are filtered out using various media like sand or activated charcoal.

Primary Treatment:

• In this stage, sedimentation is used to remove larger particles through settling. Oils and grease may also be skimmed off.
• Chemical coagulation and flocculation: Chemicals like alum are added to help small particles clump together for easier removal.

Secondary Treatment:

• This is the biological treatment phase where microorganisms break down biodegradable organic matter.
• Activated Sludge Process: A common method where microorganisms are added to the effluent to digest organic pollutants.
• Aeration Tanks: Air is pumped into the wastewater to stimulate the growth of bacteria that consume organic matter.

Tertiary Treatment:

• Involves advanced treatment processes for further removal of contaminants such as remaining suspended solids, nutrients (like nitrogen and phosphorus), and pathogens.
• Methods used can include filtration, reverse osmosis, activated carbon adsorption, and UV disinfection.

Sludge Treatment:

• The solid waste or sludge generated in the primary and secondary treatment phases is treated separately, often through dewatering, composting, or anaerobic digestion.

Disposal or Reuse:

• After treatment, the effluent may be discharged into water bodies or reused for non-potable purposes like irrigation, cooling, or industrial processes.