A large milk processing plant located in the United States with global distribution.
Challenge
The plant is located in an urban setting, surrounded by residences and businesses. Odor from the treatment system is a prime concern for the milk processor. When the milk processor acquired the plant, the biogas collection cover on the wastewater treatment system’s anaerobic digester was nearing the end of its intended service life. The cover system is key to controlling emissions from the treatment system, so a replacement was deemed necessary.
Solution
Evoqua’s Geomembrane Technologies replaced the aging cover with a new biogas collection cover. The team has performed several projects at the plant over the past 25 years, including the initial installation of the wastewater treatment plant’s cover system in the late 1980s.
The replacement cover system includes new design features to improve performance, safety, and durability. The cover was replaced without interruption in plant production or treatment of the wastewater.
Evoqua’s Geomembrane Technologies™ brand's exclusive floating beam technology was used to improve biogas collection and rainwater drainage. The floating beam is comprised of a series of durable interlocking floats specifically designed for this type of application. The beam also allows the milk processor’s employees to safely and easily access the cover for maintenance.
Heat loss is an important consideration in the anaerobic digestion process; therefore, due to fluctuating seasonal temperatures at the plant’s location, the cover was insulated to help the reactor maintain a consistent temperature in all seasons. The foam insulation also provides buoyancy.
Results
Thanks to Evoqua’s Geomembrane Technologies™ brand cover, the plant can continue to operate its wastewater treatment system confident that odors will not be an issue in the local community. The milk processor can also be assured that the cover is safe for its employees.
The cover system will also allow the milk processor to continue to collect biogas from the anaerobic digestion process for flaring or utilizing as a fuel source in the future, if they choose.
The milk processor’s decision to continue to contract Evoqua’s Geomembrane Technologies​ is a testament to their satisfaction with its cover solutions.