Client
Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL)
Location
Paradip, Odisha, India
Capacity
54,000 m³/day (Inlet), 28,000 m³/day (RO permeate)
Advanced Effluent Treatment and Water Recycling Strengthening Sustainability at IOCL Paradip Refinery
The effluent treatment and water recycling plant developed for the 15 MMTPA IOCL Paradip Refinery is a major milestone in driving industrial circularity and environmental protection in the energy sector. Designed to treat complex refinery effluents, the plant ensures stringent compliance while supporting high-volume water recovery for reuse within the refinery.
Multi-Barrier Biological and Chemical Treatment for Complex Industrial Streams
To handle highly variable and chemically intensive refinery wastewater, the facility features a multi-stage treatment scheme combining anaerobic and aerobic processes, dissolved air flotation, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis. Sludge is processed through thickening and dewatering to support efficient biosludge handling and safe disposal.
High Water Recovery Enhancing Freshwater Security for Refinery Operations
With an 85% water recovery rate, the plant significantly reduces the refinery’s reliance on freshwater sources and supports industrial resilience in the coastal region. The system reclaims treated effluent into high-quality water suitable for boiler make-up and process utilities, saving more than 17,000 million litres of freshwater annually.
Comprehensive EPC Scope for a High-Efficiency Industrial ETP-RO Plant
- EPC turnkey execution of effluent treatment, water recycling and sludge management systems
- 36-month O&M responsibility post-commissioning
High-Performance Treatment Stages for Refinery Wastewater
- Effluent Treatment: API, TPI, DAF, biotower, aeration tanks, secondary clarification, VOC treatment, wet air oxidation
- Water Recycling: Ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis with hard-COD management using powdered activated carbon
- Sludge Treatment: Belt filter press, sludge drying, biosludge management and nutrient recovery
Impact on Industrial Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
The project ensures a reliable supply of high-quality water for boiler make-up requirements at the refinery, reducing dependence on external freshwater sources by saving more than 17,000 million litres every year. By consistently complying with international effluent discharge norms, the facility supports long-term environmental protection and operational resilience. The plant also demonstrates proven capability in treating high-COD industrial effluents under demanding refinery conditions, reinforcing its value as a sustainable and future-ready water management solution.