Wastewater treatment for the metalworking industry is an important factor in maintaining stable production processes and meeting applicable discharge requirements. In many machining processes, companies use water, oils and metalworking fluid (MWF) emulsions to cool tools, reduce friction and maintain component quality. At the same time, these fluids can collect metal particles, dirt and free oils, resulting in highly contaminated wastewater.
After milling, turning or grinding processes, workpieces are thoroughly cleaned with water and specialised cleaning agents. Oil- and emulsion-containing residues are removed from the surfaces and enter the wash water together with metal particles. This wastewater generally requires treatment before discharge, as untreated wastewater may exceed applicable discharge limits and place additional loads on municipal wastewater treatment plants. Appropriate industrial treatment is therefore essential.
Products for this industry
Wastewater Treatment for the Metalworking Industry with Emulsion Breaking
To treat oil- and emulsion-containing wastewater, OKO-tech uses high-performance OKO-aquaclean Emulsion Breaking Systems. These systems are designed to separate free oils, metalworking fluids and finely dispersed emulsions from the wastewater while also reducing the solids content.
This treatment improves the quality of the treated water and provides a stable process that can be adapted to different wastewater characteristics and contaminant loads.
Heavy Metal Precipitation as Part of Wastewater Treatment for the Metalworking Industry
In addition to oils and emulsions, many wastewater streams contain dissolved heavy metals such as nickel, copper, zinc and lead. These contaminants can originate from material abrasion, tool wear or specific machining processes. Where required, targeted heavy metal precipitation can be integrated into OKO-aquaclean Emulsion Breaking Systems to convert dissolved metals into sparingly soluble compounds and facilitate their subsequent separation from the water.
This supports compliance with applicable regulatory requirements while protecting water resources, piping systems and downstream treatment stages.
Economical Treatment Systems for Metalworking Operations
Wastewater treatment in the metalworking industry requires robust technology, flexible process design and effective contaminant removal. By combining emulsion breaking, solids separation and heavy metal precipitation, OKO-tech develops treatment concepts for a wide range of production conditions.
Companies can benefit from stable treatment processes and reduced waste disposal requirements. Efficient water use and appropriate wastewater treatment also help combine environmental responsibility with economic operation.
