Process water treatment in the paper industry.

Sophisticated Alltech dosing technology for process water in paper production

In the paper industry, process water is used for various purposes, including the manufacturing of paper products, equipment cleaning, and machine maintenance. During the manufacturing process, process water can accumulate contaminants such as fibers, starch, lignin, organic and inorganic chemicals, as well as fine solid particles. The purification of process water in the paper industry can be carried out in multiple stages, with each step targeting specific contaminants.
The quality of the end product in paper manufacturing is significantly influenced by the quality of the process water used.

Steps of process water treatment for the paper industry

Mechanical cleaning

The process water is first passed through screens, sedimentation tanks, and/or flotation units to remove solids such as wood residues, paper fiber waste, and other impurities.

Biological treatment

The purified water is then treated in biological purification plants to break down organic contaminants such as hydrocarbons, starch, and proteins. This process utilizes microorganisms present in the water.

Chemical treatment

If the water is still inadequately cleaned after the biological treatment, it undergoes chemical treatment in chemical purification plants. Chemicals such as chlorine or ozone are used to further break down or oxidize remaining contaminants.

Desalination

In some cases, the purified water is also demineralized to reduce the risk of corrosion and deposits in the paper production process. Methods such as reverse osmosis, ion exchange, or electrodialysis are used for this purpose.

Storage and reuse

The treated water is stored in dedicated storage tanks before being reintroduced into the production process. The reuse of process water helps to reduce water supply costs and minimize environmental impact.

Alltech products for process water treatment and retention in the paper industry:

Coagulation (Flocculation)

Solid dewatering

Dosage of defoamers:

Dosage of hydrogen peroxide:

Dosage of biocides:

Alltech reference projects in the paper industry

Comprehensive project support

Alltech provides end-to-end project management for process water treatment projects in the paper industry, from planning to manufacturing, installation, and commissioning. We also offer on-site support for TÜV inspections and provide comprehensive training to wastewater treatment plant personnel for the operation of the entire dosing technology.

Comprehensive project support

Alltech führt Projekte der Prozesswasseraufbereitung in der Papierindustie von der Planung bis zur Herstellung, Montage und Inbetriebnahme durch. Auch die TÜV-Abnahme vor Ort wird begleitet und die Mitarbeiter der Kläranlage eingehend bei der Inbetriebnahme der gesamten Dosiertechnik geschult.

What is process water?

Process water is defined as the water used in industrial production processes. Process water can be used for cooling, cleaning, manufacturing products, or as a component of products. It can also serve as a raw material or solvent. When process water is intended to be reused in a sustainable production process, it undergoes a specialized purification system before being reintroduced into the production process. This closed-loop system is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly, and it is being adopted in an increasing number of industries.

Industrial use of process water:

  • Rinse water for cleaning products or equipment
  • Cooling water for cooling systems
  • Product water for the production of beverages and food
  • Transport medium for conveying products within industrial processes

What differentiates wastewater from process water?

In general, the difference between wastewater and process water lies in the fact that wastewater is a byproduct of human or industrial activities that needs to be disposed of, while process water is part of the industrial or commercial process and is ideally reused or recycled.