Wastewater minimization in process industry through pinch technology: A case study

Abstract

The paper emphasizes wastewater minimization in process industry, i.e. Fertilizer industry using pinch technology. An individual process constraint, which is to be easily incorporated, related to minimum mass transfer driving force, corrosion limitations, fouling etc. is allowed by the approach used. Targets are first set that maximizes water reuse. Only single contaminants are addressed. During target setting stage water regeneration opportunities are also identified which distinguishes between water reuse as well as recycling. Two simple design methods i.e. maximizing driving forces in the individual process and minimum number of water sources for each process are presented which allow targets both with as well as without regeneration to be achieved in design. The approach used is entirely conceptual. © Enviromedia Printed in India. All rights reserved.