Description
The project outcome is more use of hazardous waste from electric arc furnace steel production in EU and Bulgaria in the production process of zinc. Reduce the amount of waste and low quality metals produced and stored at the plant. During the project implementation the following activities tare foreseen : optimized: disposal, storage, transport and transfer of powdery zinc-containing materials in the plant. By accomplishing this project the quantity of hazardous wastes for disposal will be reduced, which leads to reducing the harm for the environment and prevents losses of valuable metals. The express chemical analysis of the secondaries and the between operational products leads to reducing the storage period. Expected outputs are: A mixing and pelletizing (granulation) plant for zinc waste and EAF dust installed; Express elements analysis equipment purchased and operating; 15 people trained.
Summary of project results
The scope of the project was limited to the production of zinc in the company. The goal was to solve problems of the plant by introducing eco-innovative technology for optimal use of materials and raw materials, and recycled waste materials from other industries, using the experience and best European practices, including those used in Norway. Main results are: 1) Installation for mixing and granulation of zinc-containing waste has been done and is fully operational. The installation will allow the treatment of up to 50’000 t/y of zinc-containing waste. The zinc production from zinc-containing waste will increase by up 24 %. 2) The laboratory equipment for sample preparation and express analysis of zinc-containing waste was delivered and installed. The new equipment is allowing the time for analysis to be reduced from one full day to only few hours. The express analysis is also ensuring a timely control of the technological processing and is reducing the residence time of waste at the company outdoor storage. 3) 30 employees (metallurgical staff) have been trained on working with the new installation for mixing and granulating; 4) 15 employees of the laboratory were trained to work with the new equipment for express analysis. The technology has a positive environmental effect, since the whole process is controlled by express analytical equipment, thus ensuring the most efficient use of all resources, control and prevention of any dust. The project includes "green products" because the resulting products are environmentally friendly, due to the reduction of pollution and the materials are completely used. The increased volume of processed zinc-containing waste from Bulgaria and the EU manufacturers leads directly to a reduction in the amount of waste to be disposed of. The operation of the new investment has led to a reduction in the cost of water, fuels and reagents.
Summary of bilateral results
The Norwegian partner, HECO Laboratorieutstyr AS, was involved in the selection of equipment and training of employees. There was a very good cooperation among the partners during the project implementation. The project has contributed to strengthen the bilateral relations and helped the project promoter to increase its competitiveness.