Disposal of Petrochemical Plant Effluents by Shell UK at Stanlow

Abstract

The co-disposal of petrochemical plant wastewaters with domestic and industrial effluent is described, with emphasis on pretreatment and effluent management aspects, as conducted by the effluent producer. A brief history of the specific development of co-disposal of Shell Chemicals (Stanlow manufacturing complex) effluent is given, leading to the recently completed investment of £5.2 million in improved pretreatment facilities, allowing full and failure-free advantage to be taken of the sewage-treatment facilities installed by North West Water at Ellesmere Port for the disposal of Shell Chemicals effluent, at a cost of £7.5 million, and commissioned in 1985. Effluent quality problems, and the establishment of dedicated effluent monitoring routines, are described together with the installation of quality and volume monitoring of individual effluents, leading to both processing cost allocation and management accountability. A description is given of the original and redeveloped pretreatment unit for neutralization, de-oiling and clarification of the effluent. Brief reference is made to liaison arrangements between Shell and North West Water and to the training of staff in effluent management.