Metcam, Inc. Advanced Metalworking
Alkaline Cleaning & Rinsing Wastewater Reduction
Technology Evaluation & Demonstration Project
Project Overview
Metcam, Inc., a mid-sized metal fabrication and
finishing company located in Alpharetta, Georgia partnered with
P²AD to evaluate two pollution prevention (P2) techniques on
a five-stage iron phosphate line. Used together as a single system,
the P2 techniques have helped Metcam minimize wastewater generation
and extend the bath lives of their Stage 1 alkaline spray cleaner
and Stage 2 static spray rinse.
From January 2003 through June 2003, Metcam studied
the effectiveness of advanced membrane filtration for an alkaline
spray cleaner, and in-process reuse of a spray rinse as makeup
for the heated cleaner.
Quality, Environmental & Cost Benefits
Maintaining a cleaner with minimal oil & grease
has improve its performance and help lower paint adhesion and
salt spray reject rates. With much less oil and grease dragging
into the Stage 2 rinse and Stage 3 phosphate bath, Metcam has
reported that these unit-processes are now performing at a higher
level as well.
In addition, Metcam has also realized the following
environmental and cost savings benefits by using the two P2 techniques:
Sharing Project Results
The Metcam,
Inc. Technology Evaluation Project Final Report (PDF, 681KB) is now
available. Metcam has also agreed to answer questions and provide
guided demonstration tours. If you would like to talk with
Metcam about the technology evaluation project, or are interested
in scheduling a plant visit, please contact
P²AD at (404) 651-5120.
