Treatment of washing water containing radioactive elements
Safety in the management of radioactive waste.
Treatment of washing water containing radioactive elements
Customer
The client is a leader in the treatment of radioactive contamination in Northern Europe
Objectives
Removal of radioactive contamination from process effluents produced by a solid waste treatment plant.
01.
Opportunity
The project represented an opportunity to improve the management of radioactive wastewater and reduce operating costs. The need to protect the environment and operators pushed the company to look for an advanced and efficient solution. In addition, the vacuum evaporation system allowed for potential energy savings, reducing the amount of liquids to be disposed of and optimizing the treatment process.
02.
Project
In the treatment of contaminated solid waste, the safe management of radioactive effluents is a top priority. A leading company in Northern Europe has addressed this challenge by implementing a vacuum evaporation system to ensure effective decontamination and reduce environmental impact.
03.
Solution
The adopted system includes two vacuum evaporators, which treat wastewater inside a protected environment. The effluents are accumulated in a tank, where the solids are separated and only the liquid part is sent to the evaporators. The resulting concentrate is returned to the tank and stabilized, forming a closed circuit. When the tank reaches maximum capacity, it is encapsulated with cement powder, ensuring maximum safety.
The evaporator air heat exchangers have been removed from the skid and placed in a position that allows the space to be heated or cooled depending on the season.
Decontamination of the effluent at 1000° of the discharge authorization after the installation of the two plants.
Analysis of the results
The installation of vacuum evaporators ensured complete decontamination, respecting the most stringent environmental standards. The system made it possible to reduce the radioactivity of the effluents to a level 1000 times lower than the authorised limit for discharge, confirming the effectiveness of the technology. The approach adopted also improved operational safety, minimising risks for personnel and reducing contact with hazardous substances.
The closed circuit made it possible to have a more controlled and sustainable management, avoiding losses and simplifying the disposal process. Finally, the integration of optimized heat exchangers contributed to a greater energy savings, making the entire plant more efficient.
Savings
Reduction of management costs
Safety
Minimized risks to staff
Sustainability
Reducing environmental impact