GE will provide its zero liquid discharge (ZLD) technology to Shaanxi Future Energy Chemical’s coal-to-chemical facility in Yulin City, China.

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GE’s ZLD evaporator and crystallizer system will help in removing liquid discharge of waste and allow water to be reused at the plant.

The Hongdun facility is a coal-to-liquid project, under which coal will be converted into several oil products.

GE’s wastewater treatment system includes vapor recompression brine concentrator followed by a crystallizer, offering a cost-effective ZLD solution, treats wastewater feed at 40m3/hr.

The company anticipates to deliver the equipment in mid-2016, with commissioning in March 2017.

Once operational, the HongDun facility will treat wastewater feed at a rate of 40 m3/hr.

GE Power engineered systems — water and process technologies global leader Kevin Cassidy said: "This project is the sixth of this kind in China for GE in recent years and builds on our reputation as a premier ZLD solution provider worldwide.

"It is indicative of China’s desire to use innovative methods, such as zero liquid discharge wastewater treatment technology, to expand the coal-to-chemical industry while minimizing environmental impact."

The majority of electricity in China comes from coal-fired power plants.

Under China’s new regulations, including the Water Pollution Action Plan, the New Environmental Protection Law and China’s 13th Five-Year Plan, the facilities must eliminate the liquid discharge of wastewater into the environment and a ZLD system must be installed to secure a permit for the plants.


Image: GE evaporator and crystallizer installation at the Hongdun wastewater treatment facility. Photo: Courtesy of General Electric.