Wastewater management study for a textile processing industry

Abstract

Textile processing is both water and energy intensive process. Core activities and support activities of the textile industrial unit involves the use water as process water and cooling water in large quantities with subsequent generation of large amount of wastewater. The effluents resulting from these processes differ greatly in composition, due to differences in processes, used fabrics and machinery. It is essential that control measures be implemented to minimize waste generation. Our study involved the development of wastewater management system for a textile industrial unit. This unit dealing with polyester and cotton dyeing and fabric washing. The industrial unit was surveyed for environmental analysis to identify the water consuming and wastewater generations activities, for the adequacy and capacity assessment of the effluent treatment plant. Measures for water conservation and waste minimization through source reduction/ recycling and reuse and for treatment of wastewater that are cost effective and compliance with the standards have been developed. Results shows that with implementing measures for source reduction, reuse and recycle at all feasible places have reduced water consumption, wastewater generation and steam consumption in the industrial unit.