Biopharmaceutical wastewater evapo-concentration

Context

The client, a key player in the biopharmaceutical industry, approached us seeking a solution to drastically concentrate wastewater coming out from the microfiltration  and reverse osmosis plant and mixed with an exhausted fermentation broth. The objective was to achieve a 7-8x concentration factor of the stream, containing high levels of COD, salts and suspended solids, thereby minimizing the waste sent to external disposal and enhancing the quality of the water discharged into the sewer system.

Challenges

• High fouling and scaling wastewater.
• Mildly corrosive wastewater.
• Concentrated waste highly viscous at room temperature.
• Energy consumption to be minimized.
• Space constraints.
• System integration with existing plant infrastructure.
• Plant operated continuously 24/7.

Our solution

Design

• Feasibility study: laboratory and pilot tests run at our R&D facility to define the optimal process parameters, the achievable target and the proper technology.
• Technology identification: combination of natural and forced circulation evaporators in multiple effect configuration.
• Engineering & Sizing:  design of the final plant based on raw wastewater characteristics, experimental data and specific site constraints.

Build

• Plant Construction (skid mounted):
  • pre-heating unit
  • natural and forced circulation evaporators
  • CIP system
  • control system.

Operate

• System Deployment: full installation and plant start-up (commissioning).