Treatment of Mining Effluents with Lamella Clarifier Technology
The plant treated mining effluents contaminated with heavy metals such as uranium, iridium, and sulfate. It then eliminated these effluents before any discharge to comply with environmental standards. Lamella settling, combined with upstream physicochemical treatment, effectively separated these contaminants. This ensured water purification before discharge, meeting environmental safety requirements.
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How can metals from mine effluent be treated?
With stricter standards, the mining industry treats its effluents contaminated with heavy metals. Our client wanted to install a system to significantly reduce these contaminants. Additionally, they aimed to eliminate more than 90% of heavy metals. Finally, the system also respects variable flow constraints and the physicochemical conditions of the effluents.
This processing requires the following:
- The flow varies from 1 to 13 m³/h, with a design for 20 m³/h.
- The coagulation-flocculation process is located upstream.
- The installation is inside a building, protected from direct sunlight.
- The pH varies from 8 to 9.
- The temperature is between 5 and 30 degrees.
- A buffer tank is placed upstream of the lamella clarifier.
- Pumping removes the sludge.
- There is little or no floating sludge.
What is the Purpose of Jar Testing in Water Treatment?
First, we recommend jar tests to evaluate the effectiveness of the coagulation-flocculation process. Next, these tests determine the optimal doses of coagulants and flocculants to maximize particle agglomeration. By simulating real conditions, jar tests evaluate process performance and water quality. Moreover, the results are crucial for deciding to integrate a lamella clarifier into the treatment system. Finally, these tests confirm that the technology achieves the objectives of reducing contaminants present in the water.
Clariflocculation: the most suitable method for treating metals
To meet this challenge, the solution uses a lamella clarifier with upstream coagulation and flocculation. This system effectively separates fine particles and heavy metals from contaminated water. Additionally, the 1h2o3 lamella clarifier, compact and modular, optimizes solid separation in a reduced space. It also recovers floating sludge and maximizes the settling surface. Coupled with preliminary chemical treatment, the coagulation-flocculation process aggregates fine particles. This improves their settlability and allows rapid elimination of contaminants in the effluents.
Metal removal efficiencies of over 95%.
First, post-installation analyses showed a reduction of over 95% in heavy metals. Next, these results confirm that the process meets the initially set treatment objectives. Moreover, this configuration effectively treats metallic residues, even with fluctuating flows. It also ensures stable performance, adapted to the specific constraints of the operating site. Finally, a major advantage is the low operating cost, lower than that of membranes or ion exchange resins.
To carry out this project, 1h2o3 produced :
The team carried out the project including:
- They sized the lamella clarifier.
- They designed a solution adapted to the site constraints.
- They manufactured and integrated the electromechanical equipment.
- They delivered the equipment to the project site.
This integrated approach thus ensured a coherent and operational solution, respecting the technical and environmental requirements of the project.
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Monobloc lamella clarifier DLM-L
Lamella clarifiers
Year of completion
2020
