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MEE

Multiple effect evaporator (MEE)

A Multiple Effect Evaporator (MEE) is a sophisticated and efficient industrial equipment used in wastewater treatment to concentrate solutions by evaporating the solvent. Here’s a brief overview of how it works and its benefits:

Process overview:

  1. Multiple Stages: The MEE consists of multiple evaporator vessels, known as effects, arranged in series. Each effect operates at a progressively lower pressure and temperature.
  2. Heat Transfer: The vapor generated in one effect is used to heat the liquid in the next effect, maximizing energy efficiency.
  3. Evaporation Process: The feed solution is introduced into the first effect, where heat is supplied to cause evaporation. The generated vapor is then transferred to subsequent effects, promoting further concentration.

How does a MEE work?

  1. Feed Introduction: The feed solution, which needs to be concentrated, is introduced into the first evaporator (Effect 1).
  2. Heating: Steam is applied to Effect 1 to heat the feed solution. The heat causes the solvent (usually water) in the solution to evaporate, leaving behind a more concentrated liquid.
  3. Vapor Transfer: The vapor produced in Effect 1 is transferred to Effect 2. This vapor acts as a heating source for Effect 2, causing further evaporation of the solvent in Effect 2.
  4. Subsequent Effects: This process continues through multiple effects, with each subsequent effect operating at a progressively lower pressure and temperature. The vapor generated in each effect serves as the heat source for the next effect.
  5. Condensation: The vapor from the final effect is condensed and collected. This condensate can often be reused in the process, making it more efficient.
  6. Concentrated Product: By the time the solution has passed through all the effects, it becomes highly concentrated. This concentrated liquid is then collected as the final product.

Advantages:

  • Energy Efficiency: Utilizes the heat generated from one effect to drive the evaporation in subsequent effects, reducing energy consumption.
  • Cost Savings: Lower operational costs due to reduced energy requirements.
  • High Concentration Ratios: Capable of achieving high concentration ratios, making it suitable for various applications.
  • Waste Reduction: Recovers and reuses a significant portion of the water, reducing waste management costs

Applications:

  • Zero liquid discharge:  MEE plays an important role in concentration of contaminants in Zero liquid discharge (ZLD)plant.  
  • Chemical and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: MEEs are used to treat wastewater containing various chemicals and pharmaceutical residues, reducing the concentration of contaminants.
  • Food and Beverage Production: In this industry, MEEs help in treating wastewater with high organic loads, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Spent Cutting Fluids and Oily Wastewaters: MEEs are effective in treating wastewater containing spent cutting fluids and oils from machining processes.