1. Case sample of a CT option
Control of sulfuric acid use in concentrated latex industry

2. Working conditions found during audit
In latex sedimentation, workers add sulfuric acid to the latex to promote coagulation. They do this by depending on long experience - without measuring. Then they use a stick to stir and mix the acid with latex, and later scoop the coagula floating on the surface. The water remaining is drained into the rubber trap.

3. Suggested CT option
Ensure appropriate consumption of acid used in coagulation, by plotting titration curve of skimmed latex at various amount of ammonia, and add only required amount of acid each time.

4. Technical feasibility study
It is an operational control measure in use.
The factory is capable of implementing.
There are no other technical limitations.

5. Economic feasibility study
Investment cost 7,000 baht
(handheld pH meter and cost for plotting skim latex titration)
Service cost baht
(sampling skimmed latex for ammonia check)
Savings baht
(Acid costs saved per sedimentation)
Investment payback after sedimentation 23 times
(calculated from 7,000/(360-50) times)

6. Implementation steps

7. Case sample of a CT option
Proper use of a water softener

8. Working conditions found during assessment
Resin is rinsed off the water softener by using 100 kg. of salt in each regenerating cycle.
Regeneration takes 15 minutes
The softener is used for eight hours before the next regeneration

9. Suggested CT options
Use salt with 10% concentration for cleaning, or about 125 kg. per regenerating cycle.
Increase regeneration time to 30 minutes
Operational time is increased to 24 hours

10. Technical feasibility study
It is a proper resin washing method, lasting no less than 30 minutes.
The factory is capable of implementing such adjustments.
There are no other technical limitations.

11. Economic feasibility study
Investment cost None
Savings baht/24 hours
(salt cost 175 kg./day x 2.2 baht/kg., excluding cost for water, labor and time saved)
Payback period Immediate

12. Work procedure

13. Samples of different CT options

14. When cleaning factory floors, sweep off dirt and scraps before hosing down with water
Check for leaks in various connections, e.g., pipes for raw, soft and cold water, and repair immediately if leaks are found
Ensure that float valves are properly functioning
Where possible, use high-pressure nozzle on water hoses

15. Avoid cleaning by overflow system; counter-flow system is preferable
Plan production process so that minimal washing is required
Product change should not take place too often
Check quality of water used and use appropriate type of water

16. Insulate hot and cold water pipes and repair the insulation if damaged
Consider returning condensate
Avoid using steam directly by using indirect heat transfer where applicable
Water used to cool machines should be reused

17. Acid and alkaline should not be dumped after only one use; try to re-use by adding acid or alkaline to obtain required concentration
For light, fluffy materials, trap systems should be utilized to prevent loss
Install water meter at key points so that loss and production efficiency will be known
Avoid using hazardous chemicals

18. Prepare work manuals and have them available for use
Maintain machines in good working condition
Check condition of boilers regularly
If production is much lower than production capacity, production process should be revised to minimize loss

19. Air conditioner should be set at an appropriate temperature
Lights should be turned off when not in use; use spot lighting where possible
Light switches should be positioned throughout different work areas. Replace spent bulbs with energy saving bulbs.
Clean light bulbs and reflectors regularly

20. Summary CT benefits Increased production efficiency
Reduced production cost
Reduced environmental problems at source
Good image
Good relations with local community

21. Summary Factors crucial for sustaining CT
Management support
Team work
Determination
Communication
Training
Incentives

22. Summary Management role in CT implementation
Continuous support for CT activities
Involve everyone in the organization in CT activities
Incorporate CT into management plan (marketing, production, finance, accounting, personnel and information system

23. e-mail : ctu@diw.go.th For additional information, contact:
Cleaner Technology Unit
Tel
Fax