Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Electro Coagulation

I am researching advanced water treatment systems. The focus of this is for waste, and grey water treatment. One method involves utilizing "Electro-Coagulation". The intent of this is to increase the size of the particles in the waste stream by adding aluminum to the waste stream, and creating a floc. I am told these highly charged particles will be more readily removed by the treatment plant. The treatment utilized is a bio reactor. Will this step be beneficial for this application?

David Nye
- Seattle, Washington
2002

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The suppliers of the equipment are knowledgeable and can probably answer that question. If in doubt, pay them to come out and do a treatability study at your plant on a lab-scale so that you can determine what the technology has to offer for your waste.

Jon Barrows, MSF, EHSSC
GOAD Company

Independence, Missouri

2002

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Electrocoagulation is suitable for grey water and many other applications but the use of aluminum plates is usually not necessary and is expensive. The process sterilizes (kills bacteria), and must be done well ahead of the bio-reactor or following it to remove the bacteria.

Paul Morkovsky
- Shiner, Texas, USA
2003

What impact on the finish occurs if salt water is introduced onto the plate surface? Is there another material recommended for a salt water application other than aluminum?

David Nye
- Seattle, Washington
2003