Powdered lime is utilised extensively in the treatment of wastewater; for example, to reduce odour in raw, primary sludge, as a cost-effective alternative to using digesters. It is also used in other water treatment processes to help balance pH levels and as part of composting methods for sludge removed from the bottom of primary tanks after it has been de-watered and compressed. The lime and remaining water in the sludge together creates a heated chemical reaction, accelerating the process.As with most other vessels storing powdered products, lime silos are susceptible to over-pressurisation arising from filtration blockages or excessive input pressures from delivery tankers. Silo over-pressurisation will result in a multitude of problems for sites:
- Powder escaping the vessel into the environment (particularly problematic as lime is corrosive)
- Damage to equipment and potential buckling of the silo
- The potential for silo rupture or the filter unit to be blown off the roof by pressure build-up
These issues are common across many industries. Fitting silos with comprehensive pressure protection systems will negate these problems. These systems monitor and control pressure in a silo during deliveries, stopping filling if there is a problem and indicating what maintenance work is needed to keep the site safe. You can find out more on our silo protection
