Acid neutralization systems adjust the pH value of a process stream in self-contained systems, either continuously or in batches. Effluent monitoring ensures that automatic discharges take place only when the pH values are within set limits. The systems are easy to install with high efficiency and low cost operation. A wide variety of available sizes allows accurate matching to the requirements of particular applications.
Normally acid neutralization systems adjust the pH of a process discharge to within adjustable limits, depending on the application. When discharged into a public sewer, neutralization within a pH range of 6 to 9 is typical. For mildly acidic or alkaline streams with high flow rates and stable characteristics, compact and low cost continuous flow neutralization can be used. When the pH levels fluctuate, inflows are irregular or when the flows are highly acid or alkaline, the use of batch systems is appropriate. These systems neutralize the particular batch and only allow a discharge when the set criteria are reached. A final monitoring chamber for sampling and for recording discharge pH gives operators full control of the effluents.
Flexible Application
Modutek’s acid neutralization systems are available in a wide variety of sizes and configurations. They are designed to suit the requirements of different production facilities and applications, including for semiconductor fabrication, in research centers and in universities. Sizes range from 5 to 500 gpm and installation can be indoor or outdoor, depending on availability of plumbing and electrical connections. The self-contained units are compact and easy to install with an on board reagent tank option. Systems up to 100 gpm are of unitized construction with steel reinforced thermo welded polypropylene while larger systems are skid-mounted.
System Features and Characteristics
Modutek designs its systems with an emphasis on safety and reliability while keeping costs low and saving space. Neutralization systems can operate in fully automatic mode for both acid and alkaline streams. Secondary containment is standard and automatic mode ensures that discharge only occurs when the stream is within permitted pH values. For normal operation, a two-stage system is usually sufficient but three-stage systems are available for especially demanding applications. The control system requires a 120 V AC supply but the mixers and pumps can operate on 120 V or 208 V AC.
The control of the process stream pH is micro-processor based while alarms are handled by a PLC with a touch screen. This combination results in high accuracy and reliability while making it easy to calibrate the sensors and adjust the set points. Neutralizing chemicals are injected into the process with two metering pumps for each stage. Larger systems add pressure control valves.
Alarms include high and low pH in the final monitoring chamber and low level in the reagent storage tanks. There is a liquid sensor in the double containment and all the alarms can be tied into relays for remote signaling at the control panel. Ethernet access for remote signaling is also available and a digital chart recorder monitors and tracks the pH of the process discharge. As a result, there is a continuous record of the pH levels and of alarm conditions during automatic operation.
Overall Benefits
Modutek’s acid neutralization systems offer operators handling chemicals a complete range of neutralization options and system sizes in convenient configurations. The low cost systems are inexpensive to install and reliably ensure that process streams stay within required pH ranges. While operation is fully automatic, comprehensive alarms and monitoring lets the operator check that the system is functioning as intended. If you need more information or would like a quote for your specific requirements contact Modutek by calling 866-803-1533 or sending an email to [email protected].