What size dilution tank do I need and how many lbs. of limestone would be required?

Product Description

Our neutralizing and dilution tanks are rotationally molded from virgin high density polyethylene conforming to ASTM D1248 for polyolefin materials. Tanks can be used for service of 180°F in continuous or intermittent use of 212°F. Tops are bolted, or fusion welded to the engineer’s specification, with all fittings made of polyethylene and welded into all penetrations of tanks.

General Information

Neutralizing corrosive, toxic, and flammable wastes is necessary for the environment and piping systems, even when quantities and concentrations are small. Such wastes can cause physical damage to a building’s piping or external sewer systems. If the effluent is discharged into the environment (such as rivers and lakes), severe damage can result in wildlife and water sources. Neutralization is the process whereby acids and alkalis are rendered harmless. The degree of neutralization can be measured by a system known as pH (positive hydrogen ions). The degree of measurement is a pH of 7, which is neutral. Acids range from 0 to 6.99, and alkaline ranges from 7.01 to 14. The smaller the pH number, the higher the content of acidic waste present. The higher the pH number, the higher the alkaline wastes.

Sizing Tanks

Sizing the correct neutralization tank for a project is done by relating the number of stations discharged through the system. The number of lab stations in commercial and industrial laboratories should be divided into two. Use this table as a guide.

Limstone Usage

Limestone chips are used in numerous applications to help neutralize chemical-bearing wastes (e.g., acid waste). After years of successful neutralization, many states and local environmental plumbing codes call for adding limestone chips into acid-neutralization basins, tanks, or sumps. Water is added to the tanks to initiate the dilution process. We recommend the limestone chips be one to three inches in diameter size range and have a calcium carbonate content of over 90%. See the above chart for the approximate limestone needed.

Maintenance of tanks

Proper maintenance of neutralization tanks is essential for the proper neutralization of wastes in the systems. Tanks must be cleaned out periodically of all sludge, debris, and other material and checked for the proper amount of limestone. A regular maintenance schedule of one to three months should be observed, but more or less frequent inspection may be necessary in any particular case.