Environmentally safe operation of barometric condensers

Abstract

Refining alumina from bauxite via the Bayer Process can create environmental liabilities. Many refineries rely on barometric condensers for key unit operations. While barometric condensers offer simple, efficient, and reliable cooling options, they have the ability to discharge contaminated water back to the cooling water source. With tightening environmental regulations worldwide, developing reliable barometric condensers that operate without discharging high pH water is critical to sustaining condenser operations. Alcoa has devised a method to prevent high pH excursions from barometric condenser discharge that has been 100% effective.