Overcoming Carryover by using Anti-Foaming Agents

In wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), "carryover" is a commonly encountered issue. Carryover occurs when foam generated during the wastewater treatment process rises to the surface and is carried away by the flow of water out of the system. Carryover can lead to several problems, including contamination of the surrounding environment, decreased process efficiency, and equipment damage.

One common solution used to address carryover is the use of anti-foaming agents or defoamers.

What are Anti-Foaming Agents or Defoamers?

Anti-foaming agents, also known as defoamers, are substances specifically designed to control foam formation during the wastewater treatment process. Defoamers work by reducing the surface tension of water, preventing bubble formation, or breaking down existing foam. They come in various types, including silicone-based, ethoxylated alcohols, fatty acids, and mineral oil derivatives.

The Role of Anti-Foaming Agents in Overcoming Carryover

1. Reducing Foam Formation: Anti-foaming agents help reduce foam formation during the wastewater treatment process. This reduces the volume of foam generated and prevents it from rising to the surface.
2. Improving Process Efficiency: By reducing foam formation, the use of anti-foaming agents can improve the efficiency of the wastewater treatment process. This allows plants to operate under more optimal operational conditions.
3. Preventing Carryover: Carryover occurs when foam is carried away by the flow of water out of the system. By controlling foam formation, anti-foaming agents can prevent carryover, reducing contamination in the surrounding environment and maintaining the quality of the treated wastewater.
4. Protecting Equipment: Carryover can cause damage to equipment such as pumps, pipes, and filters. By reducing carryover, the use of anti-foaming agents can help protect equipment from damage caused by contamination and foam buildup.

The use of anti-foaming agents in wastewater treatment depends on the characteristics of the wastewater being treated, operational conditions, and the types of equipment used. Proper use of anti-foaming agents involves selecting the appropriate type and dosage, as well as careful monitoring of their effects on the treatment process.

One of the best defoamers with high stability and highly effective in reducing foam is our Aquaright Defoamer-10. Defoamer-10 is particularly suitable for use in industries such as pulp and paper, rubber, fermentation, textiles, wastewater treatment systems, and water treatment.

AQUARIGHT DEFOAMER 10 is an emulsion-type antifoam formulated for general purposes. It exhibits superior performance characteristics compared to other antifoams under certain conditions. It can be used as a neat product or after dilution.