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Polyaluminium Chloride (PAC) in Steel & Metallurgical Wastewater Treatment

Table of Contents

Steel and metallurgical wastewater is dominated by inorganic pollution and high solids loading.

Typical Characteristics

  • Extremely high suspended solids: Iron scale, ore fines, slag particles
  • Heavy metal ions: Zinc, lead, chromium, manganese
  • High alkalinity and temperature: Especially from rolling and cooling processes
  • Large flow rates: Continuous discharge in steel plants

These factors require a fast, robust coagulation system.

Steel Industry

steel industry wastewater treatment chemicals

Why PAC Is Ideal for Steel Wastewater

PAC is particularly suited for inorganic-dominated wastewater.

Core Advantages

  1. Rapid flocculation of iron fines
  2. Effective heavy metal precipitation
  3. Stable performance under high alkalinity
  4. Low chemical consumption per ton of water

How PAC Removes Heavy Metals

Removal Mechanism

  • Al³⁺ hydrolysis forms Al(OH)₃ flocs
  • Heavy metals adsorb or co-precipitate
  • Metals are removed with sludge

Typical removal efficiencies:

  • Zn²⁺, Pb²⁺: 70–90%
  • Cr³⁺: >85%

Treatment Process Design in Steel Plants

1. PAC Coagulation–Sedimentation

Most common setup

  • PAC dosing: 50–150 mg/L
  • SS removal: >85%
  • Turbidity: <10 NTU

2. PAC + PAFC for Alkaline Wastewater

In highly alkaline systems, PAFC or blended PAC improves performance and floc density.

3. PAC + PAM for Sludge Thickening

PAM enhances sludge settling and reduces moisture content, lowering disposal costs.

Treatment Process Design in Steel Plants

Dosage Control and Cost Optimization

ItemTypical Value
PAC dosage0.5–1.5‰
Sludge reduction20–30%
Chemical cost saving10–25%

Jar testing is critical due to varying ore compositions.

Buyer-Focused Selection Guide

Steel plants should prioritize PAC with:

  • High Al₂O₃ content
  • Strong floc density
  • Low corrosion impact on equipment

PAC manufacturer for steel wastewater

Conclusion

For steel and metallurgical wastewater, PAC offers fast SS removal, reliable heavy metal reduction, and stable compliance performance. Its adaptability and cost efficiency make it a core chemical in modern steel plant water treatment systems.

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