process water filtration systems FAQ

EPA pretreatment regulations require industrial wastewater discharged to a Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) to maintain a pH between 6.0 and 9.0. Discharges below pH 5.0 are specifically prohibited under 40 CFR §403.5(b)(2). PRAB systems verify every batch within this range before discharge is permitted.

Yes. PRAB pH adjustment systems are configurable for closed-loop water management, routing treated water directly back to the manufacturing process rather than to drain. This reduces freshwater consumption, cuts fluid disposal costs, and supports sustainability goals. End-of-life coolants, wash water, and process fluids can all be treated for recirculation.

PRAB’s automatic 50-micron continuous-band filter is the second stage of the two-stage pre-filtration system. It continuously removes fine particulates that could foul pH probes, damage metering pumps, or interfere with chemical dosing accuracy — extending equipment life and reducing maintenance frequency compared to conventional drum filters.

Yes. In metal-bearing wastewater streams, raising the pH to the appropriate level causes dissolved metals to precipitate as metal hydroxides for downstream removal. PRAB systems support metal hydroxide precipitation as part of the standard batch neutralization cycle, helping facilities meet both pH and metals discharge limits simultaneously.