Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) Systems: The Complete Guide for Indian Industries

What is Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD)?

Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) is an advanced wastewater treatment technology that achieves 99%+ water recovery, leaving zero harmful discharge to the environment. For Indian industries facing stricter regulations from CPCB and state pollution control boards, ZLD has become not just an option but a mandate.

How Does ZLD Work?

A typical ZLD system combines multiple treatment stages:

• Pre-treatment: Filtration, chemical treatment
• Concentration: RO, NF, or evaporation to reduce volume
• Evaporation: Thermal or non-thermal evaporation of remaining concentrate
• Crystallization: Final drying of solids (optional)

Traditional vs Non-Thermal ZLD

Traditional ZLD systems rely on thermal evaporation (MED, MVR, multiple-effect evaporators) which have high energy costs. Non-thermal evaporation, like Asiatic Engineers' patented ATM system, uses mechanical atomization and natural evaporation - reducing CAPEX by up to 60% and OPEX by up to 70%.

ZLD Cost in India (2024)

The cost of a ZLD plant depends on:

• Flow rate (liters per day)
• Influent TDS levels
• Required recovery rate
• Technology used (thermal vs non-thermal)

Typical costs: ₹50 lakh - ₹5 crore for industrial ZLD systems in Gujarat. Non-thermal systems offer 40-70% lower operating costs compared to thermal alternatives.

Why Gujarat Industries Need ZLD

Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) has been enforcing stricter discharge norms. Industries in Vatwa, Naroda, and other industrial zones face:

• Strict TDS limits in effluent
• Zero discharge requirements for new projects
• Heavy penalties for non-compliance

Choosing a ZLD System Manufacturer

When selecting a ZLD system manufacturer in Gujarat or India, consider:

1. Experience: Years in industrial wastewater
2. Technology: Patented solutions vs imported
3. References: Past installations in your industry
4. After-sales: Service and support availability
5. Cost: Total cost of ownership, not just CAPEX

Conclusion

For Indian industries, ZLD is no longer optional. The key is choosing a technology that doesn't just meet regulations but does so economically. Non-thermal evaporation systems offer the lowest total cost of ownership while delivering 99%+ water recovery.

Ready to explore ZLD options for your facility? Contact Asiatic Engineers, Gujarat's trusted ZLD manufacturer since 1998. Call +91 98240 54002 for a free consultation.