Energy savings too
As well as water scarcity, energy consumption is also a significant issue in the industry: According to the International Energy Agency, global electricity consumption in wastewater treatment reached 222 TWh in 2020, with electricity usage across the sector predicted to increase by 80 percent by 20401. This is partly due to the increasing demand for treated wastewater, now considered a valuable potential resource.
ABB Ability Smart Solution for Wastewater leverages ABB’s long-standing expertise in advanced process control, performance optimization and digital twin technology. With the demand for treated wastewater rapidly growing worldwide, the goal is to continue developing sustainable solutions that reduce energy use while improving water quality and operational efficiency.
Developed with hydraulic modeling intelligence from the Danish water environment specialists, DHI Group, the ABB Ability Smart Solution for Wastewater creates a more stable treatment process by predicting wastewater inflow together with environmental factors such as weather patterns, reducing the risk of overflow and fines. ABB Ability Smart Solution for Wastewater is the first in a family of smart solutions for the water industry. The application of the solution in the pulp and paper industry to achieve sustainable water management makes use of sophisticated APC techniques.
APC to optimize water use in pulp mills
The water circuit in pulp mills involves a complex, integrated process with multiple intakes and effluent generation points. The main stages include wood handling, cooking, screening, washing, oxygen delignification, bleaching and paper machine operations »02. Each of these stages requires fresh water and generates effluents that must be treated and managed efficiently.
Throughout the pulp mill, there are multiple locations that present opportunities for APC to optimize the process »03:
Debarking wash water: Reducing the water used in debarking can significantly decrease the mill’s water footprint.
Boiler feed water: Maximizing boiler efficiency helps minimize water usage and enhance overall operational efficiency.
Wastewater reuse and sludge management: Reusing wastewater and effectively managing sludge can reduce freshwater consumption and improve discharge water quality.
Black liquor treatment: Stabilizing black liquor concentration and managing condensate production are critical for efficient chemical recovery and reduced water use and environmental impact.