A US-based manufacturer of commercial and residential aluminum siding and trim products had exceeded the municipal treatment plant's oil and grease discharge limits. The plant's environmental department immediately addressed the problem, sending effluent samples out for testing and requesting assistance from GE Water & Process Technologies.

In working closely with the customer, the GE team determined a new aluminum cleaner was needed. GE recommended changing the cleaning agent to Kleen* 4086A, as well as redirecting bath flows in the coil line that reduced water use and discharge at the plant.

The new cleaner was well worth the investment, as its stronger concentration and unique surfactant package reduced treatment costs while improving performance. As a result, the plant was able to meet its compliance limits without the expense of building and operating a waste treatment plant. The annual net savings for reductions in chemical, water and energy costs, as well as the capital expenditure cost avoidance, total US$390,638.