Optimising an installed water recycling system for treatment of micro algae-laden raw water

AMPC's strategic task of developing advanced water recycling methods will help build stronger member social licence with regional communities and global customers. The strategic task calls for world best practice in water recycling, which requires continuous improvement in effectively treating a variety of problematic raw water sources. Treating excessive micro algae concentrations in raw water with a traditional polymeric filtration system has proven problematic for a WA member. An unfavourable but common seasonal increase in micro algae in the plants feedwater has prevented commencement and system functionality for the recycling system. Should micro algae enter the traditional polymeric membrane system it could cause fouling and blockages, reducing efficiency and leading to operational shutdowns of the system. This not only prevents water recycling but also increases maintenance costs and disrupts plant operations. This project will pilot rented equipment that involves optimising the already installed water recycling system by; testing natural coagulants, comparing their effect on dissolved air flotation (DAF) as part of a settling system, and piloting unconventional ceramic membranes to help improve algae separation for RO feedwater. These changes are designed to prevent blockages within the system, increase water recycling volumes, improve overall recycled water quality, and act as a case study for other sites that experience seasonal increases in raw water micro algae concentrations. The project will restore RO functionality by implementing efficient micro algae removal strategies - such as coagulant dosing, liquid-solid separation, and ceramic membrane technology. It will increase water recycling volumes, reduce freshwater dependency, and enhance environmental compliance. Success in this project will showcase flexible micro algae water management strategies applicable across the red meat industry.