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Date: 6-Dec-2024 Category: Not Applicable State: Union Government Country: Europe

Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/2974 of 29 November 2024 establishing the best available techniques (BAT) conclusions, under Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on industrial emissions, for the smitheries and foundries industry (notified under document C(2024) 8322)

Issued by European Commission · Directorate-General for Environment

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Executive Summary & Key Takeaways

What it means

  • This is a Commission Implementing Decision establishing best available techniques (BAT) conclusions for the smitheries and foundries industry, under Directive 2010/75/EU on industrial emissions.
  • The BAT conclusions serve as a reference for setting permit conditions for installations covered by Chapter II of Directive 2010/75/EU.
  • Competent authorities must set emission limit values ensuring emissions do not exceed levels associated with the best available techniques as defined in the BAT conclusions, under normal operating conditions.
  • The BAT conclusions consider the opinion provided by the forum of Member States, industries, and environmental NGOs.

Key Changes

  • The document defines the scope of the BAT conclusions, covering activities such as the operation of smitheries with hammer energy exceeding 50 kilojoules and calorific power exceeding 20 MW, ferrous metal foundries with a production capacity exceeding 20 tonnes per day, and non-ferrous metal foundries with melting capacities exceeding 4 tonnes per day for lead and cadmium or 20 tonnes per day for all other metals.
  • The BAT conclusions also cover independently operated wastewater treatment where the main pollutant load originates from the activities covered by these BAT conclusions.
  • The BAT conclusions outline general BAT conclusions applicable to all installations, including the implementation of an Environmental Management System (EMS), an inventory of inputs and outputs, a chemicals management system, and plans for preventing leaks and spillages, managing other than normal operating conditions (OTNOC), energy efficiency, water, noise, residues, and odour.
  • The document specifies monitoring requirements for emissions to air and water, including parameters, frequency, and applicable EN standards.
  • The document sets BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) and environmental performance levels (BAT-AEPLs) for various processes and substances, including specific energy consumption, water consumption, waste disposal, and operational material efficiency.
  • The document details BAT for increasing energy efficiency, improving material efficiency, reducing waste, and preventing or reducing diffuse emissions to air, channelled emissions to air, and emissions to water.
  • The document provides specific BAT conclusions for cast iron foundries, steel foundries, and non-ferrous metal foundries, addressing energy efficiency and emissions to air from metal melting and other processes.
  • The document provides specific BAT conclusions for smitheries, addressing energy efficiency, material efficiency and vibrations.

Impact Analysis

Suggested Action Items

  • Industries: Conduct regular monitoring of emissions and environmental performance to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.

Stakeholders

  • Citizens: Benefit from improved air and water quality due to reduced industrial emissions.

Key Entities Referenced

Directive 2010/75/EU: Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on industrial emissions (integrated pollution prevention and control). Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/2974: Decision establishing the best available techniques (BAT) conclusions for the smitheries and foundries industry. Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009: Regulation establishing the European Union eco-management and audit scheme (EMAS). Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006: Regulation concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008: Regulation on classification, labelling and packaging (CLP). Directive (EU) 2015/2193: Directive on the limitation of emissions of certain pollutants into the air from medium combustion plants. Directive 91/271/EEC: Council Directive concerning urban waste-water treatment.
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Official Journal EN of the European Union L series 2024/2974 6.12.2024 COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING DECISION (EU) 2024/2974 of 29 November 2024 establishing the best available techniques (BAT) conclusions, under Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on industrial emissions, for the smitheries and foundries industry (notified under document C(2024) 8322) (Text with EEA relevance) THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION, Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Having regard to Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 November 2010on industrial emissions (integrated pollution prevention and control)(1), and in particular Article 13(5) thereof, Whereas: (1) Best available techniques (BAT) conclusions are the reference for setting permit conditions for installations covered by Chapter II of Directive 2010/75/EU and competent authorities should set emission limit values which ensure that, under normal operating conditions, emissions do not exceed the emission levels associated with the best available techniques as laid down in the BAT conclusions. (2) In accordance with Article 13(4) of Directive 2010/75/EU, the forum composed of representatives of Member States, the industries concerned and non-governmental organisations promoting environmental protection, established by Commission Decision of 16 May 2011(2), provided the Commission on 29 April 2024 with its opinion on the proposed content of the BAT reference document for the smitheries and foundries industry. That opinion is publicly available(3). (3) The BAT conclusions set out in the Annex to this Decision take into account the opinion of the forum on the proposed content of the BAT reference document. They contain the key elements of the BAT reference document. (4) The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Committee established by Article 75(1) of Directive 2010/75/EU, HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION: Article 1 The best available techniques (BAT) conclusions for the smitheries and foundries industry, as set out in the Annex, are adopted. (1) OJ L 334, 17.12.2010, p. 17. (2) Commission Decision of 16 May 2011 establishing a forum for the exchange of information pursuant to Article 13 of Directive 2010/75/EU on industrial emissions (OJ C 146, 17.5.2011, p. 3). (3) https://circabc.europa.eu/ui/group/06f33a94-9829-4eee-b187-21bb783a0fbf/library/c66a71e9-ce56-47bb-9bba-6d9c79649eee? p=1&n=10&sort=created_DESC. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 1/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Article 2 This Decision is addressed to the Member States. Done at Brussels, 29 November 2024. For the Commission Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ Member of the Commission 2/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 ANNEX 1. Best available techniques (BAT) conclusions for the smitheries and foundries industry SCOPE These BAT conclusions concern the following activities specified in Annex I to Directive 2010/75/EU: 2.3. Processing of ferrous metals: (b) operation of smitheries with hammers the energy of which exceeds 50 kilojoules per hammer, where the calorific power used exceeds 20 MW. 2.4. Operation of ferrous metal foundries with a production capacity exceeding 20 tonnes per day. 2.5. Processing of non-ferrous metals: (b) melting, including the alloyage, of non-ferrous metals, including recovered products, and operation of non- ferrous metal foundries, with a melting capacity exceeding 4 tonnes per day for lead and cadmium or 20 tonnes per day for all other metals. 6.11. Independently operated treatment of waste water not covered by Directive 91/271/EEC(1), provided that the main pollutant load originates from the activities covered by these BAT conclusions. These BAT conclusions also cover the following: — Ferrous metal foundries employing continuous casting processes for the production of grey or nodular iron castings at or near their final shape. — Non-ferrous metal foundries using alloyed ingots, scrap, recovered products or liquid metal for the production of castings at or near their final shape. — The combined treatment of waste water from different origins, provided that the main pollutant load originates from the activities covered by these BAT conclusions and that the waste water treatment is not covered by Directive 91/271/EEC (1). — The coating of moulds and cores in ferrous and non-ferrous metal foundries. — The storage, transfer and handling of materials, including the storage and handling of scrap and sand in foundries. — Combustion processes directly associated with the activities covered by these BAT conclusions provided that the gaseous products of combustion are put into direct contact with material (such as direct feedstock heating or direct feedstock drying). These BAT conclusions do not cover the following: — The continuous casting of iron and/or steel (i.e. to produce thin slabs, thin strips, and sheets). This is covered by the BAT conclusions for Iron and Steel Production (IS). — The production of semi-finished non-ferrous metal products requiring further forming. This is covered by the BAT conclusions for the Non-Ferrous Metals Industries (NFM). — The coating of castings. This may be covered by the BAT conclusions for the Surface Treatment Using Organic Solvents including Wood and Wood Products Preservation with Chemicals. — Forging presses. — Waste water from indirect cooling systems. This may be covered by the BAT conclusions for Industrial Cooling Systems (ICS). (1) Council Directive 91/271/EEC of 21 May 1991 concerning urban waste-water treatment (OJ L 135, 30.5.1991, p. 40). ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 3/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 — Rolling mills. This is covered by the BAT conclusions for the Ferrous Metals Processing Industry (FMP). — On-site combustion plants generating hot gases that are not used for direct contact heating, drying or any other treatment of objects or materials. These may be covered by the BAT conclusions for Large Combustion Plants (LCP) or by Directive (EU) 2015/2193 of the European Parliament and of the Council(2). Other BAT conclusions and reference documents which could be relevant for the activities covered by these BAT conclusions are the following: — Surface Treatment of Metals and Plastics (STM); — Waste Treatment (WT); — Monitoring of Emissions to Air and Water from IED Installations (ROM); — Economics and Cross-Media Effects (ECM); — Emissions from Storage (EFS); — Energy Efficiency (ENE). These BAT conclusions apply without prejudice to other relevant legislation, e.g. on the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH), on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP). (2) Directive (EU) 2015/2193 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 November 2015 on the limitation of emissions of certain pollutants into the air from medium combustion plants (OJ L 313, 28.11.2015, p. 1). 4/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 DEFINITIONS For the purposes of these BAT conclusions, the following definitions apply: General terms Term used Definition A metal workpiece, produced using a casting process, which is ejected or released out of a Casting mould. Pouring molten metal into the cavity of a mould. The molten metal is subsequently allowed Casting process to solidify. Molten metal is poured into a preheated rotating mould, placed either vertically or horizontally depending on the product shape. After pouring, the mould rotates around its Centrifugal casting central axis creating a centrifugal force which displaces the molten metal towards the periphery, forcing it to deposit on the walls of the mould. Channelled emissions Emissions of pollutants into the environment through any kind of duct, pipe, stack, etc. Scrap metal which meets at least all of the following characteristics: — free of non-metallic impurities; — free of galvanised, primed or painted scrap parts; — free of oil and grease; — free of explosive can material; Clean scrap — free of tool steels, stainless steels or chrome-alloyed steels, except for steel foundries; — for iron and steel foundries, free of non-ferrous metal scrap parts. Free means that residual impurities are present at such a low level that they do not adversely affect the environmental performance (e.g. increased TVOC, PCDD/F and/or heavy metal emissions) and the operation/safety of the plant. Curing processes for moulds and cores where the sand binder hardens at ambient Cold-setting processes temperature. Curing begins immediately after the last component of the sand binder formulation is introduced in the mix. Molten metal is poured into a water-cooled die that is open at the bottom or at the side. Through intensive cooling, the outside of the metal product solidifies while it is slowly Continuous casting pulled out of the mould. Subsequently, the product (e.g. bars, tubes, profiles) is cut to the desired product length. Continuous measurement Measurement using an automated measuring system permanently installed on site. Production of cores which can be solid or hollow. Cores are inserted into the mould to Core-making provide the internal cavities or part of the external shape of the casting before the mould halves are joined. Non-channelled emissions to air. Diffuse emissions include both fugitive and non-fugitive Diffuse emissions emissions. Direct discharge Discharge to a receiving water body without further downstream waste water treatment. Solid substances formed during the melting or holding of metal at the surface of the molten Dross metal, e.g. by oxidation with air. Existing plant A plant that is not a new plant. Feedstock Any metal input in the smitheries production process. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 5/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 General terms Term used Definition In foundries, this includes a number of mechanical operations carried out after the casting process including deburring, abrasive cutting, chiselling, needling, fettling, slide grinding, Finishing shot blasting and welding. In smitheries, this includes fettling, deburring, machining, cutting and chipping. Flue-gas The exhaust gas exiting a combustion unit. A deformation and metal-shaping process using heating and hammers (e.g. pneumatic, Forging steam-driven, mechanical, electrical, hydraulic). Moulding technique using a foam pattern made of expanded polymers (e.g. expanded Full mould process polystyrene) incorporated in chemically bonded sand. The foam pattern is lost upon pouring. This process is generally used for large castings. Curing processes for cores where a catalyst or hardener is injected in a gaseous form into the Gas-hardening processes core box. Molten metal is poured directly from a ladle into a die under gravity. After solidification, the Gravity die-casting die is opened and the metal workpiece is released. Mixture of sand, clay (e.g. bentonite) and additives (e.g. coal dust, cereal binders) used for Green sand mould making. Hazardous substances Hazardous substances as defined in point 18 of Article 3 of Directive 2010/75/EU. A thermal process where castings (in foundries) or workpieces (in smitheries) are heated Heat treatment below their melting point to improve their physical properties. Molten metal is forced under pressure into a sealed mould cavity. It is held in place by a High-pressure die-casting powerful compressive power until the metal solidifies. After solidification, the die is opened and the metal workpiece is released. Curing processes for cores or moulds where the sand binder hardens into a heated core box Hot-curing processes or a heated pattern, both made of metal or wood. Indirect discharge A discharge that is not a direct discharge. Internal scrap consists of gates, risers, defective castings, and other metal pieces generated Internal scrap within the installation. Ladles used to transfer molten metal from a melting furnace to the casting process are preheated to a controlled temperature in order to dry the ladle after preparation, to Ladle preheating minimise thermal shock and refractory wear during pouring and to reduce temperature losses of the molten metal. Liquid metal output The amount of liquid metal produced in the melting furnaces. Foam patterns of the parts to be cast, made of expanded polymers (e.g. expanded polystyrene), are produced using automated moulding machines and assembled together Lost foam casting into clusters. The clusters are subsequently incorporated in unbonded sand. Upon pouring, the molten metal causes the pyrolysis of the expanded polystyrene and fills the emptied space. 6/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 General terms Term used Definition Molten metal is transferred from an airtight furnace through a riser tube into a metal die. The molten metal is pushed upwards into the die under low gas pressure. After Low-pressure die-casting solidification, the gas pressure is released allowing the still-molten metal in the riser tube to fall back into the furnace, the die is opened and the casting is released. A major change in the design or technology of a plant with major adjustments or Major plant upgrade replacements of the process and/or abatement technique(s) and associated equipment. Mass flow The mass of a given substance or parameter which is emitted over a defined period of time. The production of ferrous or non-ferrous molten metal using furnaces. This also includes Metal melting melting of, for example, scrap generated on site and heat conservation of molten metal in holding furnaces. Making of a mould into which the molten metal will be poured. This also includes the Moulding making of patterns. Mixture composed of silica sand (e.g. 85 %), clay (e.g. 15 %) and water. Generally, no other Natural sand additives are added to the mixture. A plant first permitted at the site of the installation following the publication of these BAT New plant conclusions or a complete replacement of a plant following the publication of these BAT conclusions. Nodular iron Cast iron with carbon in a nodular/spheroidal shape, commonly referred to as ductile iron. Treatment of molten cast iron with magnesium or with a rare-earth element to change the Nodularisation carbon particles into a nodular/spheroidal shape. Periodic measurement Measurement at specified time intervals using manual or automated methods. A succession of thermal process steps used to raise the temperature of the feedstock before Heating/reheating hammering. Substances and/or mixtures as defined in Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 and Process chemicals used in the process(es). Process chemicals may contain hazardous substances and/or substances of very high concern. Steel treatment process to remove carbon (decarburisation) from pig iron (primary refining) Refining of steel followed by removal of impurities. Substance or object generated by the activities covered by the scope of these BAT Residue conclusions as waste or by-product. Sand reuse The process of reusing sand in a foundry after sand reconditioning or reclamation. Any mechanical operation carried out at the installation to reuse green and/or natural sand. Sand reconditioning This includes screening, removing tramp metal, separating and removing fines and oversized agglomerates. The sand is then cooled and sent for storage/reuse. Any mechanical and/or thermal operation carried out at the installation to reuse chemically bonded sand or mixed sand. This includes an initial mechanical step (e.g. crushing, Sand reclamation screening) followed by mechanical (e.g. grinding wheel, impact drum) and/or thermal (e.g. fluidised bed, rotary furnaces) processes in order to remove the residual binders. Areas which need special protection, such as: — residential areas; Sensitive receptors — areas where human activities are carried out (e.g. neighbouring workplaces, schools, day-care centres, recreational areas, hospitals or nursing homes). Liquid substances that do not dissolve in liquid metal but separate easily from them and Slag form a separate layer on the liquid metal because of their lower density. Slag is formed by the oxidation of non-metallic elements that are present in the metal charge. Substances meeting the criteria mentioned in Article 57 and included in the Candidate List Substances of very high con­ of Substances of Very High Concern, according to the REACH Regulation ((EC) cern No 1907/2006(1)). ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 7/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 General terms Term used Definition Water from precipitation that flows over land or impervious surfaces, such as paved streets, Surface run-off water storage areas and rooftops, and does not soak into the ground. Refining operations in aluminium melting processes which include degassing, grain refining, and fluxing. Degassing (i.e. removal of dissolved hydrogen using nitrogen) is Treatment of molten metal often combined with cleaning (i.e. removal of alkali or alkaline earth metal such as Ca) using Cl gas. 2 Valid hourly (or half-hourly) An hourly (or half-hourly) average is considered valid when there is no maintenance or average malfunction of the automated measuring system. (1) Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/67/EEC, 93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC (OJ L 396, 30.12.2006, p. 1). 8/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Pollutants and parameters Term used Definition Collective term for derivatives of ammonia in which one or more of the hydrogen atoms has been Amines replaced by an alkyl or aryl group. Adsorbable organically bound halogens, expressed as Cl, include adsorbable organically bound AOX chlorine, bromine and iodine. As The sum of arsenic and its compounds, dissolved or bound to particles, expressed as As. B[a]P Benzo[a]pyrene. Biochemical oxygen demand. Amount of oxygen needed for the biochemical oxidation of organic and/ BOD 5 or inorganic matter in 5 (BOD ) days. 5 Cd The sum of cadmium and its compounds, dissolved or bound to particles, expressed as Cd. Cl Elemental chlorine. 2 CO Carbon monoxide. Chemical oxygen demand. Amount of oxygen needed for the total chemical oxidation of the organic COD matter to carbon dioxide using dichromate. COD is an indicator for the mass concentration of organic compounds. Cr The sum of chromium and its compounds, dissolved or bound to particles, expressed as Cr. Cu The sum of copper and its compounds, dissolved or bound to particles, expressed as Cu. Dust Total particulate matter (in air). Fe The sum of iron and its compounds, dissolved or bound to particles, expressed as Fe. HCl Hydrogen chloride. HF Hydrogen fluoride. Hg The sum of mercury and its compounds, dissolved or bound to particles, expressed as Hg. Hydrocarbon oil index. The sum of compounds extractable with a hydrocarbon solvent (including HOI long-chain or branched aliphatic, alicyclic, aromatic or alkyl-substituted aromatic hydrocarbons). Mg Magnesium. MgO Magnesium oxide. MgS Magnesium sulphide. MgSO Magnesium sulphate. 4 Ni The sum of nickel and its compounds, dissolved or bound to particles, expressed as Ni. NO The sum of nitrogen monoxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO ), expressed as NO . X 2 2 PCDD/F Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans. Phenol index The sum of phenolic compounds, expressed as phenol concentration and measured according to EN ISO 14402. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 9/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Pollutants and parameters Term used Definition The sum of lead and its compounds, dissolved or bound to particles, expressed as Pb (in water). Pb The sum of lead and its compounds, expressed as Pb (in air). SO Sulphur dioxide. 2 TOC Total organic carbon, expressed as C (in water), includes all organic compounds. Total suspended solids. Mass concentration of all suspended solids (in water), measured via filtration TSS through glass fibre filters and gravimetry. Total nitrogen Total nitrogen, expressed as N, includes free ammonia and ammonium nitrogen (NH4-N), nitrite (TN) nitrogen (NO2-N), nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N) and organically bound nitrogen. TVOC Total volatile organic carbon, expressed as C (in air). VOC Volatile organic compound as defined in Article 3(45) of Directive 2010/75/EU. Zn The sum of zinc and its compounds, dissolved or bound to particles, expressed as Zn. ACRONYMS For the purposes of these BAT conclusions, the following acronyms apply. Acronym Definition CBC Cold blast cupola CMS Chemicals management system CMR Carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction. CMR substance of category 1A as defined in Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 as amended, CMR 1A i.e. carrying the hazard statements H340, H350, H360. CMR substance of category 1B as defined in Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 as amended, CMR 1B i.e. carrying the hazard statements H340, H350, H360. CMR 2 CMR substance of category 2 as defined in Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 as CMR 2 amended, i.e. carrying the hazard statements H341, H351, H361. DMEA N,N-Dimethylethylamine EAF Electric arc furnace EMS Environmental management system ESP Electrostatic precipitator HBC Hot blast cupola HPDC High-pressure die-casting NFM Non-ferrous metal OME Operational material efficiency OTNOC Other than normal operating conditions TEA Triethylamine 10/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS Best available techniques The techniques listed and described in these BAT conclusions are neither prescriptive nor exhaustive. Other techniques may be used that ensure at least an equivalent level of environmental protection. Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions are generally applicable. Emission levels associated with the best available techniques (BAT-AELs) and indicative emission levels for emissions to air In foundries, the BAT-AELs and indicative emission levels for emissions to air given in these BAT conclusions refer to concentrations (mass of emitted substances per volume of waste gas) under the following standard conditions: dry gas at a temperature of 273,15 K and a pressure of 101,3 kPa, without correction to a reference oxygen level, and expressed in the unit mg/Nm3 or ng WHO-TEQ/Nm3. In smitheries, the BAT-AEL and indicative emission level for emissions to air given in these BAT conclusions refer to concentrations (mass of emitted substances per volume of waste gas) under the following standard conditions: dry gas at a temperature of 273,15 K and a pressure of 101,3 kPa, corrected at a reference oxygen level of 3 dry vol-% and expressed in the unit mg/Nm3. The equation for calculating the emission concentration at the reference oxygen level is: 21 – O E ¼ R × E R M 21 – O M where: E : emission concentration at the reference oxygen level O ; R R O : reference oxygen level in vol-%; R E : measured emission concentration; M O : measured oxygen level in vol-%. M For averaging periods of BAT-AELs and indicative emission levels for channelled emissions to air, the following definitions apply: Type of measurement Averaging period Definition Average over a period of 1 day based on valid hourly or half-hourly Continuous Daily average averages. Average over the sampling Average value of three consecutive samplings/measurements of at Periodic period least 30 minutes each(1). (1) For any parameter where, due to sampling or analytical limitations and/or due to operational conditions (e.g. batch processes), a 30-minute sampling/measurement and/or an average of three consecutive samplings/measurements is inappropriate, a more representative sampling/measurement procedure may be employed. For PCDD/F, one sampling period of 6 to 8 hours is used. When the waste gases of two or more sources (e.g. furnaces) are discharged through a common stack, the BAT-AELs apply to the combined discharge from the stack. For the purpose of calculating the mass flows in relation to BAT 12, where waste gases with similar characteristics, e.g. containing the same (type of) substances/parameters, and discharged through two or more separate stacks could, in the judgement of the competent authority, be discharged through a common stack, these stacks shall be considered as a single stack. Emission levels associated with the best available techniques (BAT-AELs) for emissions to water The BAT-AELs for emissions to water given in these BAT conclusions refer to concentrations (mass of emitted substances per volume of water), expressed in mg/l. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 11/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Averaging periods associated with the BAT-AELs refer to either of the following two cases: — In the case of continuous discharge, daily average values, i.e. 24-hour flow-proportional composite samples. — In the case of batch discharge, average values over the release duration taken as flow-proportional composite samples, or, provided that the effluent is appropriately mixed and homogeneous, a spot sample taken before discharge. Time-proportional composite samples can be used provided that sufficient flow stability is demonstrated. Alternatively, spot samples may be taken, provided that the effluent is appropriately mixed and homogeneous. The BAT-AELs apply at the point where the emission leaves the installation. Other environmental performance levels associated with the best available techniques (BAT-AEPLs) and indicative levels BAT-AEPLs for specific energy consumption (foundries) The BAT-AEPLs for specific energy consumption refer to yearly averages calculated using the following equation: energy consumption rate specific energy consumption ¼ activity rate where: energy consumption rate: total amount of heat (generated from primary energy sources) and electricity consumed by the relevant process(es) (melting and holding, ladle preheating) in foundries, expressed in kWh/ year; and activity rate: total amount of liquid metal output, expressed in t/year. The energy consumption rate corresponds to the total amount of heat (generated from primary energy sources) and electricity consumed by all furnaces in the relevant process(es): melting and holding, ladle preheating. Indicative levels for specific energy consumption (smitheries) The indicative levels for specific energy consumption refer to yearly averages calculated using the following equation: energy consumption rate specific energy consumption ¼ activity rate where: energy consumption rate: total amount of heat (generated from primary energy sources) and electricity consumed by the plant in smitheries, expressed in kWh/year; and activity rate: total amount of feedstock, expressed in t/year. 12/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 BAT-AEPLs for specific water consumption (foundries) The BAT-AEPLs for specific water consumption refer to yearly averages calculated using the following equation: water consumption rate specific water consumption ¼ activity rate where: water consumption rate: total amount of water consumed by the plant excluding: — recycled and reused water, and — cooling water used in once-through cooling systems, and — water for domestic-type usage, expressed in m3/year; and activity rate: total amount of liquid metal output, expressed in t/year. BAT-AEPLs for specific amount of waste sent for disposal (foundries) The BAT-AEPLs for specific amount of waste sent for disposal refer to yearly averages calculated using the following equation: waste disposal rate specific amount of waste sent for disposal ¼ activity rate where: waste disposal rate: total amount of waste sent for disposal, expressed in kg/year; and activity rate: total amount of liquid metal output, expressed in t/year. Indicative levels for operational material efficiency (OME) (foundries) The indicative levels for OME refer to yearly averages expressed as a percentage and calculated using the following equation: good casting rate operational material efficiency ðOMEÞ ¼ × 100 activity rate where: good casting rate: total amount of final castings produced at the installation without defects, expressed in t/year; and activity rate: total amount of liquid metal output, expressed in t/year. BAT-AEPLs for sand reuse (foundries) The BAT-AEPLs for sand reuse refer to yearly averages expressed as a percentage and calculated using the following equation: sand reuse ratio ¼ amount of reused sand × 100 total amount of sand used where: amount of reused sand: total amount of reused sand, originating from reconditioning or reclamation, expressed in t/ year; and total amount of sand used: total amount of sand used, expressed in t/year. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 13/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.1. General BAT conclusions 1.1.1. Overall environmental performance BAT 1. In order to improve the overall environmental performance, BAT is to elaborate and implement an environmental management system (EMS) that incorporates all of the following features: (i) commitment, leadership, and accountability of the management, including senior management, for the implementation of an effective EMS; (ii) an analysis that includes the determination of the organisation’s context, the identification of the needs and expectations of interested parties, the identification of characteristics of the installation that are associated with possible risks for the environment as well as of the applicable legal requirements relating to the environment and human health; (iii) development of an environmental policy that includes the continuous improvement of the environmental performance of the installation; (iv) establishing objectives and performance indicators in relation to significant environmental aspects, including safeguarding compliance with applicable legal requirements; (v) planning and implementing the necessary procedures and actions (including corrective and preventive actions where needed), to achieve the environmental objectives and avoid environmental risks; (vi) determination of structures, roles and responsibilities in relation to environmental aspects and objectives and provision of the financial and human resources needed; (vii) ensuring the necessary competence and awareness of staff whose work may affect the environmental performance of the installation (e.g. by providing information and training); (viii) internal and external communication; (ix) fostering employee involvement in good environmental management practices; (x) establishing and maintaining a management manual and written procedures to control activities with significant environmental impact as well as relevant records; (xi) effective operational planning and process control; (xii) implementation of appropriate maintenance programmes; (xiii) emergency preparedness and response protocols, including the prevention and/or mitigation of the adverse (environmental) impacts of emergency situations; (xiv) when (re)designing a (new) installation or a part thereof, consideration of its environmental impacts throughout its life, which includes construction, maintenance, operation and decommissioning; (xv) implementation of a monitoring and measurement programme; if necessary, information can be found in the Reference Report on Monitoring of Emissions to Air and Water from IED Installations; (xvi) application of sectoral benchmarking on a regular basis; (xvii) periodic independent (as far as practicable) internal auditing and periodic independent external auditing in order to assess the environmental performance and to determine whether or not the EMS conforms to planned arrangements and has been properly implemented and maintained; (xviii) evaluation of causes of nonconformities, implementation of corrective actions in response to nonconformities, review of the effectiveness of corrective actions, and determination of whether similar nonconformities exist or could potentially occur; (xix) periodic review, by senior management, of the EMS and its continuing suitability, adequacy and effectiveness; (xx) following and taking into account the development of cleaner techniques. 14/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Specifically for the smitheries and foundries industry, BAT is also to incorporate the following features in the EMS: (xxi) an inventory of inputs and outputs (see BAT 2); (xxii) a chemicals management system (see BAT 3); (xxiii) a plan for the prevention and control of leaks and spillages (see BAT 4 (a)); (xxiv) an OTNOC management plan (see BAT 5); (xxv) an energy efficiency plan and audits (see BAT 7 (a)); (xxvi) a water management plan and audits (see BAT 35 (a)); (xxvii) a noise and/or vibration management plan (see BAT 8); (xxviii) a residues management plan (see BAT 10); (xxix) an odour management plan for foundries (see BAT 32). Note Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009 establishes the European Union eco-management and audit scheme (EMAS), which is an example of an EMS consistent with this BAT. Applicability The level of detail and the degree of formalisation of the EMS will generally be related to the nature, scale and complexity of the installation, and the range of environmental impacts it may have. BAT 2. In order to improve the overall environmental performance, BAT is to establish, maintain and regularly review (including when a significant change occurs) an inventory of inputs and outputs, as part of the EMS (see BAT 1), that incorporates all of the following features: (i) information about the production processes, including: (a) simplified process flow sheets that show the origin of the emissions to air, water and soil; (b) descriptions of process-integrated techniques and waste water/waste gas treatment techniques to prevent or reduce emissions, including their performance (e.g. abatement efficiency); (ii) information about the quantity and characteristics of raw materials (e.g. scrap, feedstock, sand) and fuels (e.g. coke) used; (iii) information about water consumption and usage (e.g. flow diagrams and water mass balances); (iv) information about energy consumption and usage; (v) information about the characteristics of the waste water streams, such as: (a) average values and variability of flow, pH, temperature and conductivity; (b) average concentration and mass flow values of relevant substances/parameters (e.g. total suspended solids, TOC or COD, hydrocarbon oil index, metals) and their variability; (vi) information about the quantity and characteristics of the process chemicals used: (a) the identity and the characteristics of process chemicals, including properties with adverse effects on the environment and/or human health; (b) the quantities of process chemicals used and the location of their use; (vii) information about the characteristics of the waste gas streams, such as: (a) average values and variability of flow and temperature; (b) average concentration and mass flow values of relevant substances (e.g. dust, NO , SO , CO, metals) and X 2 their variability; (c) presence of other substances that may affect the waste gas treatment system (e.g. oxygen, nitrogen, water vapour) or installation safety; ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 15/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 (d) presence of substances classified as CMR 1A, CMR 1B or CMR 2; the presence of such substances may for example be assessed according to the criteria of Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 on classification, labelling and packaging (CLP); (viii) information about the quantity and characteristics of residues generated. Applicability The level of detail and the degree of formalisation of the inventory will generally be related to the nature, scale and complexity of the plant, and the range of environmental impacts it may have. BAT 3. In order to improve the overall environmental performance, BAT is to elaborate and implement a chemicals management system (CMS), as part of the EMS (see BAT 1), that incorporates all of the following features: (i) A policy to reduce the consumption of and risks associated with process chemicals, including a procurement policy to select less harmful process chemicals and their suppliers with the aim of minimising the use of and risks associated with hazardous substances and substances of very high concern as well as to avoid the procurement of an excess amount of process chemicals. The selection of process chemicals is based on: (a) the comparative analysis of their bioeliminability/biodegradability, eco-toxicity and potential to be released into the environment in order to reduce emissions to the environment; (b) the characterisation of the risks associated with the process chemicals, based on the chemicals’ hazards classification, pathways through the plant, potential release and level of exposure; (c) the potential for recovery and reuse (see BAT 17 (f)); (d) the regular (e.g. annual) analysis of the potential for substitution with the aim to identify potentially new available and safer alternatives to the use of hazardous substances and substances of very high concern; this may be achieved by changing process(es) or using other process chemicals with no or lower environmental impacts (see BAT 11 for foundries); (e) the anticipatory monitoring of regulatory changes related to hazardous substances and substances of very high concern, and the safeguarding of compliance with applicable legal requirements. The inventory of process chemicals (see BAT 2 (vi)) may be used to provide and keep the information needed for the selection of process chemicals. (ii) Goals and action plans to avoid or reduce the use of and risks associated with hazardous substances and substances of very high concern. (iii) Development and implementation of procedures for the procurement, handling, storage, and use of process chemicals, disposal of waste containing process chemicals and return of unused process chemicals, to prevent or reduce emissions to the environment (e.g. see BAT 4). Applicability The level of detail and degree of formalisation of the CMS will generally be related to the nature, scale and complexity of the plant. 16/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 BAT 4. In order to prevent or reduce emissions to soil and groundwater, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability A plan for the prevention and control of leaks and spillages is part of the EMS (see BAT 1) and includes, but is not limited to: — site incident plans for small and large spillages; — identification of the roles and responsibilities of persons involved; — ensuring staff are environmentally aware and trained to The level of detail prevent and deal with spillage incidents; of the plan will — identification of areas at risk of spillage and/or leaks of generally be re­ Set-up and implementa­ hazardous materials and substances of very high concern, lated to the nature, tion of a plan for the pre­ and ranking them according to the risk; a scale and complex­ vention and control of — identification of suitable spillage containment and clean-up ity of the plant, as leaks and spillages equipment and regularly ensuring it is available, in good well as to the type working order and close to points where these incidents and quantity of li­ may occur; quids used. — waste management guidelines for dealing with waste arising from spillage control; — regular (at least on an annual basis) inspections of storage and handling areas, testing and calibration of leak detection equipment and prompt repair of leaks from valves, glands, flanges, etc. This includes techniques such as: — impermeable (for example, cemented) floor for process Structuring and manage­ areas and for scrap/feedstock yards; ment of process areas and Generally applic­ b — separate storage for various types of raw materials, close to raw material storage able. the production lines; this can be achieved using, for areas example, compartments or boxes in the storage areas, bunkers. Production areas and/or areas where process chemicals, residues or waste are stored or handled are protected against surface run- Prevention of the con­ off water. This is achieved by using at least the following Generally applic­ c tamination of surface techniques: able. run-off water — drainage channels and/or an outer kerb bund around the plant; — roofing with roof guttering of process and/or storage areas. Surface run-off water from areas that are potentially Collection of potentially contaminated is collected separately and only discharged after Generally applic­ d contaminated surface appropriate measures are taken, e.g. monitoring, treatment, able. run-off water reuse. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 17/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability This includes the following: — storage in roofed and ventilated areas with floors impermeable to the liquids concerned; — use of oil-tight trays or cellars for hydraulic stations and oil- or grease-lubricated equipment; — collection of spilled liquid; Safe handling and storage — loading/unloading areas for process chemicals, lubricants Generally applic­ e of process chemicals and coatings, etc. are designed and constructed in such a able. way that potential leaks and spillages are contained and sent to on-site treatment (see BAT 36) or off-site treatment. — highly flammable liquids (e.g. methyl formate, TEA, DMEA, mould coatings containing alcohol) are stored separately from incompatible substances (e.g. oxidisers) in enclosed and well-ventilated storage areas. A set of measures aiming at preventing, or reducing, the generation of emissions (e.g. regular maintenance and cleaning Generally applic­ f Good housekeeping of equipment, work surfaces, floors and transport routes, and able. containment as well as rapid clean-up of any spillages). BAT 5. In order to reduce the frequency of the occurrence of OTNOC and to reduce emissions during OTNOC, BAT is to set up and implement a risk-based OTNOC management plan as part of the EMS (see BAT 1) that includes all of the following elements: (i) identification of potential OTNOC (e.g. failure of equipment critical to the protection of the environment (‘critical equipment’)), of their root causes and of their potential consequences; (ii) appropriate design of critical equipment (e.g. off-gas treatment, waste water treatment); (iii) set-up and implementation of an inspection plan and preventive maintenance programme for critical equipment (see BAT 1 (xii)); (iv) monitoring (i.e. estimating or, where possible, measuring) and recording of emissions during OTNOC and of associated circumstances; (v) periodic assessment of the emissions occurring during OTNOC (e.g. frequency of events, duration, amount of pollutants emitted) and implementation of corrective actions if necessary; (vi) regular review and update of the list of identified OTNOC under point i following the periodic assessment of point (v); (vii) regular testing of backup systems. Applicability The level of detail and degree of formalisation of the OTNOC management plan will generally be related to the nature, scale and complexity of the plant, and the range of environmental impacts it may have. 18/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.1.2. Monitoring BAT 6. BAT is to monitor at least once every year: — the consumption of water, energy and materials used, including process chemicals, expressed as a yearly average; — the amount of waste water generated, expressed as a yearly average; — the amount of each type of materials recovered, recycled and/or reused, expressed as a yearly average; — the amount of each type of residues generated and of each type of waste sent for disposal, expressed as a yearly average. Description Monitoring preferentially includes direct measurements. Calculations or recording, e.g. using suitable meters or invoices, can also be used. The monitoring is broken down to the most appropriate level (e.g. to process or plant level) and considers any significant changes in the process or plant. 1.1.3. Energy efficiency BAT 7. In order to increase the overall energy efficiency of the plant, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability Management techniques An energy efficiency plan is part of the EMS (see BAT 1) and entails defining and monitoring the specific energy consumption of the activity/processes (e.g. kWh/t liquid metal), setting objectives in terms of energy efficiency and implementing actions to achieve these objectives. Energy efficiency Audits (also part of the EMS, see BAT 1) are carried out at least once a. plan and audits every year to ensure that the objectives of the energy efficiency plan are met and the audits recommendations are followed up and The level of detail of the implemented. energy efficiency plan, The energy efficiency plan may be integrated in the overall energy of the audits and of the efficiency plan of a larger installation (e.g. surface treatment balance record will gen­ activities). erally be related to the nature, scale and com­ Drawing up an energy balance record once every year which plexity of the plant and provides a breakdown of the energy consumption and generation the types of energy (including energy export) by the type of energy source, for example: sources used. — energy consumption: electricity, natural gas, renewable energy, Energy balance re­ imported heat and/or cooling; b. cord — energy generation: electricity and/or steam. This includes: — definition of the energy boundaries of the processes; — information on energy consumption in terms of delivered energy; ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 19/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability — information on energy exported from the plant; — energy flow information (e.g. Sankey diagrams or energy balances) showing how the energy is used throughout the processes. Process and equipment selection and optimisation This includes techniques such as: — burner maintenance and control; — energy-efficient motors; — energy-efficient lighting; Use of general en­ — optimising steam and compressed air distribution systems; c. ergy-saving tech­ Generally applicable. — regular inspection and maintenance of the steam distribution niques systems to prevent or reduce steam leaks; — process control systems; — variable speed drives; — optimising air conditioning and building heating. Further sector-specific techniques to increase energy efficiency are given in Sections 1.2.1.3, 1.2.2.1, 1.2.4.1 and 1.3.1 of these BAT conclusions. 1.1.4. Noise and vibrations BAT 8. In order to prevent or, where that is not practicable, to reduce emissions of noise and vibrations, BAT is to set up, implement and regularly review a noise and/or vibration management plan, as part of the EMS (see BAT 1), that includes all of the following elements: — a protocol containing appropriate actions and timelines; — a protocol for monitoring emissions of noise and/or vibrations; — a protocol for responding to identified noise and vibration events, e.g. managing complaints and/or taking corrective actions; — a noise and/or vibration reduction programme designed to identify the source(s), to measure/estimate noise and/ or vibration exposure, to characterise the contributions of the sources and to implement prevention and/or reduction measures. Applicability The applicability is restricted to cases where a noise and/or vibration nuisance at sensitive receptors is expected and/ or has been substantiated. BAT 9. In order to prevent or, where that is not practicable, to reduce noise emissions, BAT is to use one or a combination of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability For existing plants, the reloca­ Appropriate lo­ Increasing the distance between the emitter and the receiver, by tion of equipment and open­ cation of equip­ a. using buildings as noise screens and by relocating equipment ings of the buildings may not ment and build­ and/or building openings. be applicable due to a lack of ings space and/or excessive costs. 20/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability These include at least the following: — inspection and maintenance of equipment; — closing of doors and windows of enclosed areas, if possible, or use of self-closing doors; — equipment operation by experienced staff; Operational b. — avoidance of noisy activities at night, if possible; measures — provisions for noise control, during production and main­ Generally applicable. tenance activities, transport and handling of feedstock and materials, e.g. reducing the number of material transfer operations, reducing the height from which pieces fall on to hard surfaces. Low-noise This includes direct drive motors; low-noise compressors, c. equipment pumps and fans; low-noise transportation equipment. This includes techniques such as: — use of noise reducers; — use of acoustic insulation of equipment; Applicability to existing plants Noise control — enclosure of noisy equipment and processes (e.g. unload­ d. may be restricted by a lack of equipment ing of raw materials, hammering, compressors, fans, space. shake-out, finishing); — use of building materials with high sound insulation prop­ erties (e.g. for walls, roofs, windows, doors). Only applicable to existing plants, as the design of new plants should make this techni­ Inserting obstacles between emitters and receivers (e.g. protec­ e. Noise abatement que unnecessary. For existing tion walls, embankments). plants, the insertion of obsta­ cles may not be applicable due to a lack of space. 1.1.5. Residues BAT 10. In order to increase material efficiency and reduce the amount of waste sent for disposal, BAT is to set up, implement and regularly review a residues management plan. Description A residues management plan is part of the EMS (see BAT 1) and comprises a set of measures aiming to: I. minimise the generation of residues; II. optimise the reuse, recycling and/or recovery of residues; and III. ensure the proper disposal of waste. The residues management plan may be integrated in the overall residues management plan of a larger installation (e.g. surface treatment activities). Applicability The level of detail and the degree of formalisation of the residues management plan will generally be related to the nature, scale and complexity of the plant. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 21/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2. BAT conclusions for foundries The BAT conclusions in this section do not apply to cadmium, titanium and precious metal foundries, as well as bell and art casting. 1.2.1. General BAT conclusions for foundries The BAT conclusions in this section apply in addition to the general BAT conclusions given in Section 1.1. 1.2.1.1. Hazardous substances and substances of very high concern BAT 11. In order to prevent or reduce the use of hazardous substances and substances of very high concern in moulding and core-making with chemically bonded sand, BAT is to use alternative substances which are non- or less hazardous. Description Hazardous substances and substances of very high concern used in moulding and core-making are substituted by non-hazardous substances or – when this is not feasible – by less hazardous substances, by using for example: — aliphatic organic (instead of aromatic) binders in moulding and core-making (see BAT 25 (d), (e) and (f)); — non-aromatic solvents for cold-box core-making (see BAT 25 (j)); — inorganic binders in moulding and core-making (see BAT 25 (d), (e) and (f)); — water-based coatings in moulding and core-making (see BAT 25 (l)). 1.2.1.2. Monitoring of emissions 1.2.1.2.1. Monitoring of emissions to air BAT 12. BAT is to monitor channelled emissions to air with at least the frequency given below, and in accordance with EN standards. If EN standards are not available, BAT is to use ISO, national or other international standards that ensure the provision of data of an equivalent scientific quality. Minimum Monitoring Foundry/furnace Substance/Parameter Process(es)/source(s) Standard(s) monitoring associated type frequency(1) with Moulding using lost No EN Amines moulds and core- All standard BAT 26 making(2) available Moulding using lost moulds and core- Once every BAT 26 making(3) year No EN Benzene All standard Casting, cooling and shake- available out using lost moulds BAT 27 including full mould process(3) 22/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Minimum Monitoring Foundry/furnace Substance/Parameter Process(es)/source(s) Standard(s) monitoring associated type frequency(1) with No EN Once every B[a]P Metal melting(4) Cast iron standard - year available Heat treatment(5) All BAT 24 Cast iron: CBC, Once every Carbon monoxide (CO) HBC and rotary EN 15058 BAT 38 year furnaces Metal melting NFM(5) BAT 43 Once every Heat treatment(4) BAT 24 year All BAT 38 Once every Metal melting BAT 40 year(6) BAT 43 Nodularisation(9) Cast iron BAT 39 Refining Steel BAT 41 Moulding using lost All BAT 26 moulds and core-making EN Dust 13284-1(7)(8) Casting, cooling and shake- out using lost moulds All BAT 27 including full mould process Once every year Finishing All BAT 30 Cast iron and Lost foam casting BAT 28 NFM Casting in permanent All BAT 29 moulds Sand reuse All BAT 31 Moulding using lost Once every BAT 26 moulds and core-making year EN standard Formaldehyde(4) All under Casting, cooling and shake- development out using lost moulds Once every BAT 27 including full mould year process ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 23/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Minimum Monitoring Foundry/furnace Substance/Parameter Process(es)/source(s) Standard(s) monitoring associated type frequency(1) with Cast iron: CBC, HBC and rotary BAT 38 furnaces(4) Gaseous chlorides Metal melting EN 1911 Aluminium(4) BAT 43 Once every year Cast iron: CBC, HBC and rotary BAT 38 EN standard furnaces(4) Gaseous fluorides Metal melting under development Aluminium BAT 43 Casting, cooling and shake- out using lost moulds Once every All - including full mould year process(4) Cadmium and its Once every compounds Metal melting All - year Once every Finishing(4) All - year Casting, cooling and shake- out using lost moulds Once every All - including full mould year process(4) Chromium and its Metals compounds Metal melting(4) All EN 14385 Once every - year Once every Finishing(4) All - year Casting, cooling and shake- out using lost moulds Once every All - including full mould year process(4) Nickel and its compounds Once every Metal melting(4) All - year Once every Finishing(4) All - year 24/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Minimum Monitoring Foundry/furnace Substance/Parameter Process(es)/source(s) Standard(s) monitoring associated type frequency(1) with Casting, cooling and shake- out using lost moulds Once every All - including full mould year process(4) Cast iron: CBC BAT 38 and HBC(4) Once every Lead and its Metal melting year compounds NFM(10) BAT 43 Casting in permanent Once every Lead BAT 29 moulds year Once every Finishing(4) All - year Zinc and its Once every Metal melting(4) All - compounds year Heat treatment(5) All BAT 24 Thermal sand regeneration, except for sand originating from the cold-box process(5) All BAT 31 Thermal regeneration of Nitrogen oxides (NO ) EN 14792 X sand originating from the cold-box process Cast iron: CBC, HBC and Once every BAT 38 Metal melting rotary furnaces year NFM(5) BAT 43 Cast iron: CBC, HBC and rotary BAT 38 furnaces EN 1948-1, PCDD/F Metal melting Cast iron: EN 1948-2, BAT 38 Induction(4) EN 1948-3 BAT 40 Steel and NFM(4) BAT 43 Moulding using lost moulds and core- BAT 26 making(11) No EN Once every Phenol All standard Casting, cooling and shake- year available out using lost moulds BAT 27 including full mould process(11) ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 25/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Minimum Monitoring Foundry/furnace Substance/Parameter Process(es)/source(s) Standard(s) monitoring associated type frequency(1) with Thermal regeneration of sand in which sulphonic All BAT 31 acid catalysts have been used Sulphur dioxide (SO ) EN 14791 2 Cast iron: CBC, HBC and BAT 38 rotary furnaces Metal melting NFM(5)(12) BAT 43 Moulding using lost BAT 26 moulds and core-making Lost foam, casting Once every BAT 28 year All Casting, cooling and shake- out using lost moulds EN 12619 BAT 27 including full mould process Total volatile organic carbon (TVOC) Sand reuse BAT 31 Cast iron BAT 38 Metal melting Steel and NFM(4) - Casting in permanent All(4) BAT 29 moulds(13) (1) To the extent possible, the measurements are carried out at the highest expected emission state under normal operating conditions. (2) The monitoring only applies in the cold-box process when amines are used. (3) The monitoring only applies when aromatic binders/chemicals are used or when the full mould process is used. (4) The monitoring only applies when the substance/parameter concerned is identified as relevant in the waste gas stream based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. (5) The monitoring does not apply when only electricity is used. (6) For any stack associated with a cupola furnace and with a dust mass flow > 0,5 kg/h, continuous monitoring applies. (7) If measurements are continuous, the following generic EN standards apply instead: EN 15267-1, EN 15267-2, EN 15267-3, and EN 14181. (8) If measurements are continuous, EN 13284-2 also applies. (9) The monitoring does not apply when BAT 39 (a) is used. (10) The monitoring only applies to lead foundries or to other NFM foundries using lead as an alloying element. (11) The monitoring only applies when phenolic-based binder systems are used. (12) The monitoring does not apply when only natural gas is used. (13) The monitoring only applies when cores with chemically bonded sand are used. 26/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.1.2.2. Monitoring of emissions to water BAT 13. BAT is to monitor emissions to water with at least the frequency given below, and in accordance with EN standards. If EN standards are not available, BAT is to use ISO, national or other international standards that ensure the provision of data of an equivalent scientific quality. Minimum Monitoring Substance/parameter Process Standard(s) monitoring associated with frequency(1) Waste water from Adsorbable organically bound halogens wet scrubbing of EN ISO 9562 (AOX)(2) cupola off-gases Various EN standards Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD )(3) available (e.g. EN 5 1899-1, EN ISO 5815) No EN standard Chemical oxygen demand (COD)(3)(4) available Hydrocarbon oil index (HOI)(2) EN ISO 9377-2 Arsenic (As)(2) Cadmium (Cd)(2) Chromium (Cr)(2) Die-casting, off- gas treatment (e.g. Various EN standards Copper (Cu)(2) wet scrubbing), available (e.g. EN ISO finishing, heat 11885, EN ISO 15586, Once every 3 Iron (Fe)(2) BAT 36 Metals/ treatment, EN ISO 17294-2) months(3) metalloids contaminated Lead (Pb)(2) surface run-off water, direct Nickel (Ni)(2) cooling, wet sand regeneration and Zinc (Zn)(2) cupola furnace slag granulation. Various EN standards Mercury (Hg)(2) available (e.g. EN ISO 12846, EN ISO 17852) Phenol index(5) EN ISO 14402 Various EN standards available (e.g. EN Total nitrogen (TN)(3) 12260, EN ISO 11905-1) Total organic carbon (TOC)(3)(4) EN 1484 Total suspended solids (TSS)(3) EN 872 (1) In the case of batch discharge less frequent than the minimum monitoring frequency, monitoring is carried out once per batch. (2) The monitoring only applies when the substance/parameter is identified as relevant in the waste water stream based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. (3) In the case of an indirect discharge, the minimum monitoring frequency may be reduced to once every 6 months if the downstream waste water treatment plant is designed and equipped appropriately to abate the pollutants concerned. (4) Either COD or TOC is monitored. TOC monitoring is the preferred option because it does not rely on the use of very toxic compounds. (5) The monitoring only applies when phenolic binding systems are used. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 27/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.1.3. Energy efficiency BAT 14. In order to increase energy efficiency, BAT is to use all of the techniques (a) to (f), and an appropriate combination of the techniques (g) to (n) given below. Technique Description Applicability Design and operation Only applicable to new Selection of an energy-effi­ a. See Section 1.4.1. plants and/or major plant cient type of furnace upgrades. Techniques for maximis­ b. ing the thermal efficiency See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. of furnaces Furnace automation and c. See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. control d.. Use of clean scrap See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. Improving casting yield e. and decreasing scrap gen­ See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. eration This includes all of the following elements: — use of clean preheated ladles; — keeping closed lids on ladles to preserve heat; — use of energy-efficient techniques for preheating la­ Applicability may be re­ Reducing energy losses/ dles (e.g. flameless microporous burners or oxy-fuel stricted in the case of big f. improving ladle preheating burners); ladles (e.g. > 2 t) and bottom practices — use of large (as practically possible) ladles fitted with pouring ladles due to design heat-retaining covers; constraints. — minimising the molten metal transfer from one la­ dle to another; — transferring the molten metal as quickly as possible. Applicability to existing plants may be restricted by g. Oxy-fuel combustion See Section 1.4.1. furnace design and the need for a minimum waste gas flow. Use of medium-frequency Use of medium-frequency (250 Hz) induction furnaces h. power in induction fur­ Generally applicable. instead of mains frequency (50 Hz) furnaces. naces This includes all of the following measures: — applying an appropriate system maintenance to re­ duce leaks; — efficient monitoring of operating parameters such Compressed air system op­ i. as flow, temperature and pressure; Generally applicable. timisation — minimising the pressure drops; — applying efficient load management; — reducing the inlet air temperature; — using an efficient compressor control system. 28/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability May not be applicable to continuous casting pro­ Use of microwave drying ovens (e.g. with a frequency of cesses or to the production Microwave drying of cores 2 450 Hz) for drying cores coated with water-based j. of large castings, or when for water-based coatings coatings (see BAT 21 (e)), resulting in rapid and homo­ cores are made of reclaimed geneous drying of the entire core surface. sand containing traces of carbon. Heat recovery techniques Only applicable to shaft fur­ Scrap is preheated by recovering the heat from hot flue- Scrap preheating using re­ naces in non-ferrous metal k. gases which are redirected to come into contact with the covered heat foundries and to EAFs in charge. steel foundries. Waste heat from hot off-gases is recovered (e.g. through heat exchangers) and reused on site or off site (e.g. in thermal oil/hot water/heating circuits, for steam genera­ tion or for preheating of combustion air (see technique (m)). This may include the following: — Excess heat from cupola hot off-gases is used for example for steam production, thermal oil heating, water heating. Applicability may be re­ Heat recovery from off- — Excess heat from the furnace cooling system is used l. stricted by the lack of a sui­ gases generated in furnaces for example for drying of raw material, space heat­ table heat demand. ing, water heating. — In fuel-fired furnaces in aluminium foundries, ex­ cess heat is used for example for heating the pre­ mises and/or the water for the casting cleaning fa­ cility. — Low-grade heat is converted into electricity using high-molecular-weight fluids by using the Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC). Preheating of combustion m. See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. air Waste heat from the induction furnace cooling system is Waste heat utilisation in in­ n. recovered using heat exchangers for drying raw materi­ Generally applicable. duction furnaces als (e.g. scrap), space heating or hot water supply. Further sector-specific techniques to increase energy efficiency are given in Sections 1.2.2.1 and 1.2.4.1 of these BAT conclusions. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 29/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Table 1.1 BAT-associated environmental performance levels (BAT-AEPLs) for specific energy consumption in cast iron foundries BAT-AEPL Process – Furnace type Unit (Yearly average) Melting and holding – Cold blast cupola 900– 1 750 Melting and holding – Hot blast cupola 900– 1 500 Melting and holding – Induction kWh/t of liquid metal 600– 1 200 Melting and holding – Rotary 800– 950 Ladle preheating 50– 150(1) (1) For foundries producing large castings, the upper end of the BAT-AEPL range may be higher and up to 200 kWh/t of liquid metal. Table 1.2 BAT-associated environmental performance levels (BAT-AEPLs) for specific energy consumption in steel foundries BAT-AEPL Process – Furnace type Unit (Yearly average) Melting – (EAF/induction) 600– 1 200 kWh/t of liquid metal Ladle preheating 100– 300 Table 1.3 BAT-associated environmental performance levels (BAT-AEPLs) for specific energy consumption in aluminium foundries BAT-AEPL Process Unit (Yearly average) Melting and holding kWh/t of liquid metal 600– 2 000 The associated monitoring is given in BAT 6. 1.2.1.4. Material efficiency 1.2.1.4.1. Storage and handling of residues, packaging and unused process chemicals BAT 15. In order to prevent or reduce the environmental risk associated with the storage and handling of residues, packaging and unused process chemicals and to facilitate their reuse and/or recycling, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below. 30/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description This includes the following: — Fabric filter dust is stored on impermeable surfaces, in enclosed areas and in closed Appropriate storage containers/bags. a. of various residue — Other residue types (e.g. slag, dross, spent furnace refractory linings) are stored types separately from each other on impermeable surfaces in covered areas protected from surface run-off water. Reuse of internal Reuse of internal scrap directly or after treatment. The degree of reuse of internal scrap b. scrap depends on its content of impurities. Process chemicals packaging is selected to facilitate its complete emptying (e.g. considering Reuse/recycling of the size of the packaging aperture or the nature of the packaging material). After emptying, c. packaging the packaging is reused, returned to the supplier or sent for material recycling. Preferably, process chemicals are stored in large containers. Return of unused pro­ Unused process chemicals (i.e. which remain in their original containers) are returned to their d. cess chemicals suppliers. 1.2.1.4.2. Operational material efficiency in the casting process BAT 16. In order to increase material efficiency in the casting process, BAT is to use either technique (a) or technique (a) in combination with one or both of the techniques (b) and (c) given below. Technique Description Improving casting yield and a. decreasing scrap genera­ See Section 1.4.2 tion Use of computer-aided si­ A computer simulation system is used to optimise the casting, pouring and solidification b. mulation for casting, pour­ process, to minimise the number of defective castings and increase foundry productivity. ing and solidification Production of light-weight Use of topology optimisation (i.e. casting simulation by means of algorithms and c. castings using topology op­ computer programs) to reduce the product mass while meeting the product timisation performance requirements. Table 1.4 Indicative levels for operational material efficiency Indicative levels Foundry type Unit (Yearly average) Cast iron foundries 50– 97(1)(2) Steel foundries 50– 100(1)(2) NFM foundries (all types except HPDC) – Pb % 50– 97,5(1) NFM foundries (all types except HPDC) – metals other than Pb 50– 98(1) NFM foundries (HPDC) 60– 97(1) (1) The lower end of the range is typically associated with the production of complex casting shapes due, for example, to the high number of cores and/or risers/feeders used. (2) The upper end of the range is typically associated with centrifugal casting. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 31/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 The associated monitoring is given in BAT 6. 1.2.1.4.3. Reduction of material consumption BAT 17. In order to reduce material (e.g. chemicals, binders) consumption, BAT is to use an appropriate combination of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability Techniques for aluminium high-pressure die-casting Separate spraying of release a. See Section 1.4.2. Generally applicable. agent and water Measures to minimise the consumption of release agent and water include: — use of an automated spraying system; — optimisation of the release agent’s dilution Minimisation of release agent factor; b. Generally applicable. and water consumption — application of in-die cooling; — closed-mould application of release agent; — measuring the consumption of release agents; — measuring the die surface temperature to in­ dicate hotspots in the die. Techniques for processes using chemically bonded sand and core-making Optimisation of binder and re­ c. See Section 1.4.2. Generally applicable. sin consumption Production parameters of the various product Minimisation of mould and types are stored in an electronic database that al­ d. Generally applicable. core sand losses lows easy changeover to new products with mini­ mised losses in time and materials. Use of best practices for cold- e. See Section 1.4.2. Generally applicable. setting processes When acid washing is used (e.g. using sulphuric acid) to treat the cold-box off-gases, amine sulphate Applicability may be re­ Recovery of amines from acid f. is formed. The amines are recovered from the treat­ stricted due to safety consid­ scrubbing water ment of amine sulphate using sodium hydroxide. erations (explosion hazard). This may take place on site or off site. Use of best practices for gas- g. See Section 1.4.2. Generally applicable. hardening processes Applicability of the lost foam casting process to ex­ isting plants may be re­ Alternative moulding/core-making processes stricted due to the required Applying alternative mould­ using no or a reduced amount of binders include: infrastructure modifica­ h. ing/core-making processes — lost foam casting process; tions. Applicability of va­ — vacuum moulding. cuum moulding may be re­ stricted in the case of large moulding boxes (e.g. above 1,5 m × 1,5 m). 32/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.1.4.4. Sand reuse BAT 18. In order to reduce the consumption of new sand and the generation of spent sand from sand reuse in the lost mould casting process, BAT is to use one or an appropriate combination of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability The green sand reconditioning process is controlled by a computer system to optimise raw material consumption Optimised recondi­ a. and green sand reuse, e.g. cooling (evaporative or fluidised Generally applicable. tioning of green sand bed), addition of binders and additives, moistening, mixing, quality control. Green sand reconditioning in aluminium foundries is car­ Low-waste green sand ried out using a scanner for identifying impurities in green b. Generally applicable. reconditioning sand based on brightness/colour. These impurities are sepa­ rated from green sand using an air blast pulse. Preparation of clay- bonded sand by va­ c. See BAT 25 (b). Generally applicable. cuum mixing and cool­ ing Mechanical reclama­ Mechanical techniques (e.g. breaking of lumps, segregation May not be applicable to si­ d. tion of cold-setting of sand fractions) using crushers or mills are used to reclaim licate-bonded sand. sand cold-setting sand. Cold mechanical recla­ mation of clay-bonded Use of a rotating grinding wheel to remove clay layers and e. or chemically bonded Generally applicable. chemical binders from used sand grains. sand using a grinding wheel Use of an impact drum with a spinning internal axis, equipped with small blades, for abrasive cleaning of sand Cold mechanical recla­ grains. When applied on a mixture of bentonite and chemi­ f. mation of sand using Generally applicable. cally bonded sand, a preliminary magnetic separation is car­ an impact drum ried out to remove parts with magnetic properties from the green sand. Cold reclamation of Removal of binders from the sand grains using abrasion and g. sand using a pneumatic impact. The kinetic energy is provided by a compressed air Generally applicable. system stream. Use of heat to burn binders and contaminants contained in chemically bonded and mixed sand. This is combined with May not be applicable in the Thermal reclamation an initial mechanical pretreatment to bring the sand to the case of used sand containing h. of sand correct grain size and remove any metallic contaminant. In residues from inorganic the case of mixed sand, the share of chemically bonded sand binders. should be high enough. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 33/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability After pretreatment (sieving, magnetic separation) and dry­ May not be applicable for Combined reclama­ ing, sand is mechanically or pneumatically cleaned to re­ core sands containing acidic tion (mechanical-ther­ move part of the binder. In the thermal step, organic con­ binders (because it may alter i. mal-mechanical) for stituents are burned and inorganic constituents are bentonite characteristics) or mixed organic-bento­ transferred to the dust or burned onto the grains. In a final in the case of water glass nite sands mechanical treatment, these grain layers are removed me­ (because it may alter green chanically or pneumatically and discarded as dust. sand characteristics). After pouring and solidification, moulds/casting units are loaded into the furnace. When the units reach a temperature Combined sand recla­ > 420 °C, the binders are burnt, the cores/moulds disinte­ mation and heat treat­ j. grate, and the castings undergo heat treatment. The sand Generally applicable. ment of aluminium falls to the bottom of the furnace for final cleaning in a castings heated fluidised bed. After cooling, the sand is reused in the core sand mixer without further treatment. Sand is mixed with water to produce a sludge. The removal Wet reclamation for of grain-bound binder residues is performed through inten­ k. green sand, silicate- or sive inter-particle rubbing of the sand grains. The binders Generally applicable. CO -bonded sands are released into the wash water. The washed sand is dried, 2 screened and finally cooled. Reclamation of so­ Sand is heated to make the silicate layer brittle before the use dium silicate sand l. of a pneumatic system (see technique (g)). The reclaimed Generally applicable. (water glass) using a sand is cooled before reuse. pneumatic system Sand resulting from broken/faulty cores, and excess sand Internal reuse of core from the core-making machines (after hardening in a speci­ m. sand (cold-box or fur­ Generally applicable. fic unit), are fed to a breaking unit. The resulting sand is an-acid binders) mixed with new sand for the production of new cores. Dust is collected through the exhaust filtration from the Reuse of dust from the shake-out installation and from the dosing and handling n. green sand circuit in stations for dry green sand. The collected dust (containing Generally applicable. mould making active binder compounds) can be recycled into the green sand circuit. Table 1.5 BAT-associated environmental performance levels (BAT-AEPLs) for sand reuse BAT-AEPL(1) Foundry type Unit (Yearly average) Cast iron foundries > 90 Steel foundries % > 80 NFM foundries(2) > 90 (1) The BAT-AEPLs may not apply when the quantity of used sand is lower than 10 000t/year. (2) The BAT-AEPL may not apply in aluminium die casting foundries when water glass is used. 34/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 The associated monitoring is given in BAT 6. 1.2.1.4.5. Reduction of generated residues and of waste sent for disposal BAT 19. In order to reduce the amount of residues generated in metal melting and to reduce the amount of waste sent for disposal, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below. Technique Description Techniques for all furnace types Slag forming can be minimised by in-process measures, such as: — using clean scrap; — using a lower metal temperature (as close as possible to the theoretical melting point); — avoiding high temperature peaks; Minimisation of slag — preventing extended holding of molten metal in the melting furnace or using a a. forming separate holding furnace; — making adequate use of fluxes; — making adequate choice of the furnace refractory lining; — applying water cooling of the furnace walls to avoid the wear of the furnace refractory lining; — liquid aluminium skimming. Mechanical pretreatment of slag / dross / filter dust / See Section 1.4.2. b. spent refractory linings to This may also take place off site. facilitate recycling Techniques for cupola furnaces Adjustment of the slag c. See Section 1.4.2. acidity/basicity Coke breeze generated during handling, transport and charging of coke is collected (e.g. Collection and recycling d. by using collection systems below conveyor belts and/or charging points) and recycled of coke breeze in the process (injected into the cupola furnace or used for recarburisation). Recycling of filter dust in Cupola filter dust is partially re-injected into the cupola furnace in order to increase the e. cupola furnaces using zinc content in the dust, up to a level that allows Zn recovery (> 18 %). zinc-containing scraps Techniques for EAFs Collected dry filter dust, usually after pretreatment (e.g. by pelletising or briquetting), is Recycling of filter dust in f. recycled in the furnace to enable the recovery of the metallic content of the dust. The the EAF inorganic content is transferred to the slag. BAT 20. In order to reduce the amount of waste sent for disposal, BAT is to prioritise off-site recycling and/or other recovery over disposal for spent sand, undersize sand, slags, refractory linings and collected filter dust (e.g. fabric filter dust). Description Off-site recycling and/or other recovery have priority over disposal for spent sand, undersize sand, slags, refractory linings and filter dust. Spent sand, undersize sand, slags and refractory linings can be: — recycled, e.g. in road construction, building materials (such as cement, bricks, tiles); ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 35/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 — recovered, e.g. filling of mining cavities, landfill construction (such as roads on landfills and permanent covers). Filter dust can be externally recycled, e.g. in metallurgy, sand fabrication, the construction sector. Applicability Recycling and/or other recovery may be restricted by the physico-chemical properties of the residue (e.g. organic/ metal content, granulometry). It may not be applicable in the case of absence of a suitable third-party demand for recycling and/or recovery. Table 1.6 BAT-associated environmental performance levels (BAT-AEPLs) for waste sent for disposal BAT-AEPL(1) (Yearly average) Waste type Unit NFM foundries Cast iron foundries Steel foundries Slag 0– 50 0– 50(2) 0– 50(2) Dross 0– 30 0– 30 0– 30 kg/t of liquid metal Filter dust 0– 5 0– 60 0– 10 Spent furnace refractory 0– 5 0– 20(3) 0– 20 linings (1) The BAT-AEPL may not apply in the absence of a suitable third-party demand for recycling and/or recovery. (2) For steel or cast iron foundries operating EAFs, the upper end of the BAT-AEPL range may be higher and up to 100 kg/t of liquid metal due to increased slag formation during the metallurgical treatment. (3) For cast iron foundries operating CBC, the upper end of the BAT-AEPL range may be higher and up to 100 kg/t of liquid metal. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 6. 1.2.1.5. Diffuse emissions to air BAT 21. In order to prevent or, where that is not practicable, to reduce diffuse emissions to air, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability Covering the delivery equipment (contain­ Cargo space of transport vehicles and delivery equip­ a. Generally applicable. ers) and the cargo space ment (containers) are covered (e.g. with tarpaulins). of transport vehicles Cleaning roads and Roads as well as the wheels of transport vehicles are b. transport vehicle regularly cleaned, e.g. by using mobile vacuum sys­ Generally applicable. wheels tems, water lagoons. Materials are transferred using conveyor systems, e.g. Using closed con­ c. closed conveyors, pneumatic conveying. Material Generally applicable. veyors drops are minimised. 36/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Vacuum cleaning of May not be applicable in areas The moulding and casting process areas in sand d. moulding and casting where the sand has a technical or moulding foundries are regularly vacuum-cleaned. process areas safety-related function. Applicability may be restricted in the case of large or complex cast­ ing shapes because of difficulties Substitution of alco­ for circulation of the drying air. hol-based coatings Not applicable to water-glass- e. See Section 1.4.3. with water-based coat­ bonded sands, the magnesium ings casting process, vacuum mould­ ing or the production of manga­ nese steel castings with MgO coat­ ing. This includes the following: — Minimising the generation of emissions from quenching baths by using water-based polymer solutions (e.g. containing polyvinylpyrrolidone or polyalkylene glycol). Control of emissions — Collecting emissions from quenching baths (espe­ f. Generally applicable. from quenching baths cially from oil quenching baths) as close as possi­ ble to the emission source, using roof ventilation, extraction domes or edge extractors. Extracted off- gases may be treated, e.g. by using an ESP (see Section 1.4.3). — Use of tempered water as quenching media. This includes the following: — Extraction as close as possible to the source of diffuse emissions (e.g. dust, fumes) from transfer processes such as furnace charging/tapping using Control of emission hoods for example. The extracted off-gases are g. from transfer opera­ Generally applicable. treated using for example fabric filter, wet scrub­ tions in metal melting bing. — Minimisation of diffuse emissions from liquid me­ tal transfer through launders using covers for ex­ ample. Further process-specific techniques to prevent or reduce diffuse emissions are given in BAT 24, BAT 26, BAT 27, BAT 28, BAT 29, BAT 30, BAT 31, BAT 38, BAT 39, BAT 40, BAT 41 and BAT 43. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 37/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.1.6. Channelled emissions to air BAT 22. In order to facilitate the recovery of materials and the reduction of channelled emissions to air, as well as to increase energy efficiency, BAT is to combine waste gas streams with similar characteristics, thus minimising the number of emission points. Description The combined treatment of waste gases with similar characteristics ensures more effective and efficient treatment compared to the separate treatment of individual waste gas streams. The combination of waste gases is carried out considering plant safety (e.g. avoiding concentrations close to the lower/upper explosive limit), technical (e.g. compatibility of the individual waste gas streams, concentration of the substances concerned), environmental (e.g. maximising recovery of materials or pollutant abatement) and economic factors (e.g. distance between different production units). Care is taken that the combination of waste gases does not lead to the dilution of emissions. 1.2.1.7. Emissions to air from thermal processes BAT 23. In order to prevent or reduce emissions to air from metal melting, BAT is to use either electricity generated from fossil-free energy sources in combination with techniques (a) to (e), or techniques (a) to (e) and an appropriate combination of the techniques (f) to (i) given below. Technique Description Applicability General techniques Selection of an appropriate The selection of an appro­ furnace type and maximisa­ priate furnace type is only a. See Section 4.4.1 tion of the thermal efficiency applicable to new plants of furnaces and major plant upgrades. b. Use of clean scrap See Section 1.4.1 Generally applicable. Primary control measures to minimise PCDD/F emissions Maximisation of the off- In cupola furnaces, the temperature of the post-combus­ gases’ residence time and op­ tion chamber is optimised (T > 850 °C) and continuously c. timisation of the tempera­ monitored while the off-gases’ residence time is maxi­ ture in the post-combustion mised (> 2 s). chamber in cupola furnaces The off-gas is cooled rapidly from temperatures above 400 °C to below 250 °C before dust abatement to prevent d. Rapid off-gas cooling the de novo synthesis of PCDD/F. This is achieved by ap­ Generally applicable. propriate design of the furnace and/or the use of a quench system. The build-up of dust along the cooling trajectory of the off-gases is minimised, especially in the heat exchangers, Minimising dust build-up in e. e.g. by using vertical exchanger tubes, efficient internal heat exchangers cleaning of the exchanger tubes, high-temperature de-dusting. 38/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Techniques for reducing the generation of NO and SO emissions X 2 Applicable within the con­ straints associated with the Use of a fuel or a combina­ Fuels with a low NO formation potential include natural availability of different f. tion of fuels with low NO X X gas and liquefied petroleum gas. types of fuel, which may formation potential be impacted by the energy policy of the Member State. Applicable within the con­ straints associated with the Use of a fuel or a combina­ Fuels with low sulphur content include natural gas and availability of different g. tion of fuels with low sul­ liquefied petroleum gas. types of fuel, which may phur content be impacted by the energy policy of the Member State. Applicability to existing plants may be restricted h. Low-NO burners See Section 1.4.3. X by furnace design and/or operational constraints. Applicability to existing plants may be restricted i. Oxy-fuel combustion See Section 1.4.3. by furnace design and the need for a minimum waste gas flow. The BAT-AELs for metal melting are given: — in Table 1.18 for cast iron foundries; — in Table 1.20 for steel foundries; — in Table 1.22 for NFM foundries. BAT 24. In order to prevent or reduce emissions to air from heat treatment, BAT is to use either electricity generated from fossil-free energy sources in combination with techniques (a) and (d), or all of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability General techniques Selection of an appropriate furnace type and maximisa­ Only applicable to new plants and major a. See Section 1.4.3 tion of the thermal effi­ plant upgrades. ciency of furnaces Techniques for reducing the generation of NO emissions X Applicable within the constraints asso­ Use of a fuel or a combina­ Fuels with a low NO formation potential X ciated with the availability of different b. tion of fuels with low NO include natural gas and liquefied petroleum X types of fuel, which may be impacted formation potential gas. by the energy policy of the Member State. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 39/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Applicability to existing plants may be c. Low-NO burners See Section 1.4.3. restricted by furnace design and/or op­ X erational constraints. Collection of emissions Off-gases from heat treatment furnaces (e.g. annealing, ageing, normalising, aus­ Off-gas extraction as close tempering) are extracted using hoods or d. as possible to the emission Generally applicable. cover extraction. The collected emissions source may be treated using techniques such as fabric filters. Table 1.7 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust and NO and indicative X emission level for channelled emissions to air of CO from heat treatment BAT-AEL Indicative emission level Substance/Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the (Daily average or average over the sampling period) sampling period) Dust 1 – 5(1) No indicative level NO mg/Nm3 20 – 120(2)(3) No indicative level X CO No BAT-AEL 10 – 100(3) (1) The BAT-AEL only applies when the substance/parameter concerned is identified as relevant in the waste gas streams based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. (2) In the case of heat treatment over 1 000°C (e.g. for the production of malleable iron), the upper end of the BAT-AEL range may be higher and up to 300 mg/Nm3. (3) The BAT-AEL and indicative emission level do not apply in the case of furnaces using only electric energy (e.g. resistance). The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. 1.2.1.8. Emissions to air from moulding using lost moulds and core-making BAT 25. In order to prevent or reduce emissions to air from moulding using lost moulds and core- making, BAT is to: — use an appropriate combination of the techniques (a) to (c) given below in the case of moulding with clay-bonded sand; — use either technique (d), (e) or (f) and an appropriate combination of the techniques (g) to (k) given below, in the case of moulding and core-making with chemically bonded sand; — use technique (l) given below for selecting the coatings applied to moulds and cores. Technique Description Applicability Techniques for moulding with clay-bonded sand (green sand) This includes techniques such as: Use of best prac­ — precise addition of the required quantity of key components (e.g. a. tices for green Generally applicable. clay, water, coal dust or other additives) to restore the chemical sand moulding properties of the returned green sand; 40/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability — regular testing (e.g. daily) of the green sand properties (e.g. moisture, green strength, compactability, permeability, loss on ignition, volatile content). Preparation of clay-bonded Mixing and cooling processes are combined into a single process step b. sand by vacuum by operating the sand mixer under reduced pressure, which results in Generally applicable. mixing and cool­ cooling by the controlled vaporisation of the water. ing Applicability may be re­ stricted by operational Coal dust is replaced by additives such as graphite, coke flour and Substitution of constraints (e.g. less effi­ c. zeolites, resulting in significantly lower diffuse emissions during the coal dust cient shake-out or oc­ casting process. currence of casting de­ fects). Techniques for prevention of emissions in moulding and core-making with chemically bonded sand A cold-setting binder system generating low emissions of formaldehyde, phenol, furfuryl alcohol, isocyanates, etc. is selected. This includes the use of: — no-bake furan resins with low furfuryl alcohol content (e.g. less than 40 wt-%) for production of iron castings for example; — no-bake phenol/furan systems with a low-sulphur acid catalyst for production of steel castings for example; — aliphatic organic binders based for example on aliphatic Selection of a polyalcohols (instead of aromatic organic binders) for Applicability may be re­ low-emission production of iron, steel, aluminium or magnesium d. stricted due to product cold-setting bin­ castings, etc.; specifications. der system — inorganic geopolymers based on polysialates (for production of grey iron, aluminium and steel castings, etc.); — ester silicate (for production of medium and large steel castings, etc.); — alkyd oil (e.g. for single castings or small batch production in steel foundries); — resol-ester (e.g. for lighter alloys in small or medium production); — cement (for production of very large castings for example). A gas curing binder system generating low emissions of amines, benzene, formaldehyde, phenol, isocyanates, etc. is selected. This includes the use of: — inorganic binders, e.g. sodium silicate (water glass), hardened using CO or organic esters, for example in aluminium die- 2 casting; Selection of a — inorganic geopolymers based on polysialates cured with CO Applicability may be re­ low-emission 2 e. (for production of grey iron, aluminium, steel castings, etc.); stricted due to product gas curing bin­ — aliphatic organic binders based for example on aliphatic specifications. der system polyalcohols (instead of aromatic organic binders) for production of iron, steel, aluminium or magnesium castings, etc.; — phenolic urethane binders with very low free phenol and formaldehyde content (for production of iron and steel castings, etc.); ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 41/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability — phenolic urethane binders with reduced amounts of solvents (for production of iron and steel castings, etc.). A hot-curing binder system generating low emissions of formaldehyde, phenol, furfuryl alcohol, benzene, isocyanates, etc. is selected. This includes the use of: Selection of a — inorganic binders such as geopolymers based on polysialates; Applicability may be re­ low-emission f. — inorganic binders cured using a warm-box process without stricted due to product hot-curing bin­ phenol, formaldehyde and isocyanates (for preparing specifications. der system aluminium castings with complex shapes for example); — aliphatic polyurethane warm box binders (used as an alternative to the cold box process). General techniques for moulding and core-making with chemically bonded sand Optimisation of g. binder and resin See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. consumption Use of best prac­ tices for cold- h. See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. setting pro­ cesses Use of best prac­ tices for gas- i. See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. hardening pro­ cesses Use of non-aro­ Non-aromatic solvents are used that are based either on protein or matic solvents j. animal fat (e.g. fatty acid methyl esters of vegetable oil) or on silicate Generally applicable. for cold-box esters in order to reduce emissions of VOCs (e.g. benzene, toluene). core production Several hot-curing processes may be used and a series of measures are in place to optimise each process including for the following: Hot-box process: — Curing is carried out within the optimum temperature range (e.g. 220 °C to 300 °C). — Cores are usually precoated using water-based coatings to prevent burns at the core surface which may result in Use of best prac­ brittleness during pouring. k. tices for hot-cur­ Generally applicable. — Core blowers and the area around them are well ventilated and ing processes exhausted to capture the formaldehyde liberated during curing efficiently. Warm-box process: — Curing is carried out at a lower optimum temperature range than the hot-box process (e.g. 150 °C to 190 °C), resulting in lower emissions and energy consumption than the hot-box process. 42/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Shell (Croning): — Precoated sands with a phenol-formaldehyde resin are bound using hexamethylenetetramine that decomposes at 160 °C, releasing formaldehyde, necessary for cross-linking the resin, and ammonia. The curing and/or core blower area is well ventilated and exhausted to capture the ammonia and formaldehyde liberated during curing efficiently. Techniques related to the coatings applied to moulds and cores Applicability may be re­ stricted in the case of large or complex casting shapes because of diffi­ Substitution of culties for circulation of alcohol-based the drying air. l. coatings with See Section 1.4.3. Not applicable to water water-based glass-bonded sands, the coatings magnesium casting pro­ cess, vacuum moulding or the production of manganese steel cast­ ings with MgO coating. BAT 26. In order to reduce emissions to air from moulding using lost moulds and core-making, BAT is to: — use an appropriate combination of the techniques given in BAT 25; — collect the emissions using technique (a); — treat the off-gases using one or a combination of the techniques (b) to (f) given below. Technique Description Applicability Collection of emissions Extraction of emis­ sions generated from moulding Applicability may be restricted in the case of moulding in cast iron a. and/or core-making See Section 1.4.3. and steel foundries producing large castings. as close as possible to the emission source ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 43/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Off-gas treatment b. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. c. Wet scrubbing See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. d. Adsorption See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. Applicability may be restricted where the energy demand is excessive due to the low concentration of the compound(s) concerned in the e. Thermal oxidation See Section 1.4.3. process off-gases. Applicability of recuperative and regenerative thermal oxidation to existing plants may be restricted by design and/or operational constraints. Applicability may be restricted by the presence of catalyst poisons in the waste gases or where the energy demand is excessive due to the f. Catalytic oxidation See Section 1.4.3. low concentration of the compound(s) concerned in the process off- gases. Table 1.8 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust, amines, benzene, formaldehyde, phenol and TVOC from moulding using lost moulds and core-making BAT-AEL Substance/Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Dust 1– 5 Amines < 0,5– 2,5(1) Benzene mg/Nm3 < 1– 2(2) Formaldehyde < 1– 2(3) Phenol < 1– 2(4) TVOC mg C/Nm3 15– 50(5) (a) organic binder systems generating low or no emissions of substances classified as CMR 1A, CMR 1B or CMR 2 (see techniques (d), (e) and/or (f) in BAT 25) are used in core-making; (b) one or both of the following conditions are met: — thermal or catalytic oxidation is not applicable, — substitution with water-based coatings is not applicable. (1) The BAT-AEL only applies in the cold-box process when amines are used. (2) The BAT-AEL only applies when aromatic binders/chemicals are used. (3) The BAT-AEL only applies when the substance concerned is identified as relevant in the waste gas streams based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. (4) The BAT-AEL only applies when phenolic-based binder systems are used. (5) In the case of core-making, the upper end of the BAT-AEL range may be higher and up to 100 mg C/Nm3 if both of the following conditions (a) and (b) are met: The associated monitoring is given in ΒΑΤ 12. 44/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.1.9. Emissions to air from casting, cooling and shake-out processes in foundries using lost moulds including the full mould process BAT 27. In order to reduce emissions to air from casting, cooling and shake-out processes in foundries using lost moulds including the full mould process, BAT is to: — collect the emissions by using technique (a); — treat the off-gases using one or a combination of the techniques (b) to (h) given below. Technique Description Applicability Collection of emissions Emissions generated during the casting (especially emissions from pouring), cooling and shake-out processes are appropriately extracted. For the casting and cooling processes, this includes: Extraction of — restricting the pouring process to a fixed area or position to emissions gener­ facilitate the capture of emissions using ventilators and ated during the Applicability may be re­ enclosure (e.g. in serial pouring); casting, cooling stricted in the case of cast a. — enclosure of pouring and cooling lines. and shake-out iron and steel foundries For the shake-out process, this includes: processes as close producing large castings. — use of ventilator panels situated on both sides and at the rear of as possible to the the shaker; emission source — use of enclosed units equipped with roof openings or removable covers (e.g. doghouse); — installation of an extraction point situated underneath the shaker in the sand collection box. Off-gas treatment b. Cyclone See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. c. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. d. Wet scrubbing See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. e. Adsorption See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. The off-gas stream is passed through a bed of organic material (such as peat, heather, compost, root, tree bark, softwood and different combinations) or some inert material (such as clay, activated Only applicable to the carbon, and polyurethane), where it is biologically oxidised by f. Biofilter treatment of biodegrad­ naturally occurring microorganisms into carbon dioxide, water, able compounds. inorganic salts and biomass. The biofilter is sensitive to dust, high temperatures and high variations in the off-gas composition. Supplementary nutrient feeding may be needed. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 45/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Applicability of recup­ erative and regenerative thermal oxidation to ex­ isting plants may be re­ stricted by design and/or operational constraints. Thermal oxida­ g. See Section 1.4.3. Applicability may be re­ tion stricted where the energy demand is excessive due to the low concentration of the compound(s) con­ cerned in the process off- gases Applicability may be re­ stricted by the presence of catalyst poisons in the waste gases or where Catalytic oxida­ h. See Section 1.4.3. the energy demand is ex­ tion cessive due to the low concentration of the compound(s) concerned in the process off-gases. Table 1.9 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust, benzene, formaldehyde, phenol and TVOC from casting, cooling and shake-out processes in foundries using lost moulds including the full mould process BAT-AEL Substance/Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Dust 1– 5 Benzene < 1– 2(1) mg/Nm3 Formaldehyde < 1– 2(2) Phenol < 1– 2(3) TVOC mg C/Nm3 15– 50(4) (1) The BAT-AEL only applies when aromatic binders/chemicals are used or when the full mould process is used. (2) The BAT-AEL only applies when the substance concerned is identified as relevant in the waste gas streams based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. (3) The BAT-AEL only applies when phenolic-based binder systems are used in moulding and/or core-making. (4) The upper end of the BAT-AEL range may be higher and up to 100 mg C/Nm3 when organic binder systems generating low or no emissions of substances classified as CMR 1A, CMR 1B or CMR 2 (see techniques (d), (e) and/or (f) in BAT 25) are used in core- making. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. 46/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.1.10. Emissions to air from lost foam casting BAT 28. In order to reduce dust and TVOC emissions to air from lost foam casting, BAT is to collect the emissions using technique (a) and to treat the off-gases by using an appropriate combination of the techniques (b) to (d) given below. Technique Description Applicability Collection of emissions Extraction of emis­ sions generated from In the lost foam casting processes, emissions from the pyro­ a. lost foam casting as lysis of the expanded polymer during pouring and shake-out Generally applicable. close as possible to are extracted using, for example an enclosure or a hood. the emission source Off-gas treatment b. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. c. Wet scrubbing See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. Applicability of recupera­ tive and regenerative ther­ mal oxidation to existing plants may be restricted by design and/or operational constraints. Applicability d. Thermal oxidation See Section 1.4.3. may be restricted where the energy demand is exces­ sive due to the low concen­ tration of the compound(s) concerned in the process off-gases. Table 1.10 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust and TVOC from lost foam casting BAT-AEL Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Dust mg/Nm3 1– 5 TVOC mg C/Nm3 15– 50(1) (1) The upper end of the BAT-AEL range may be higher and up to 100 mg C/Nm3 if the TVOC abatement efficiency of the waste gas treatment system is > 95 %. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 47/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.1.11. Emissions to air from the casting process in foundries using permanent moulds BAT 29 In order to prevent or reduce emissions to air from the casting process in foundries using permanent moulds, BAT is to: — prevent the generation of emissions by using one or a combination of the techniques (a) to (e); — collect the emissions by using technique (f); — treat the off-gases by using one or a combination of the techniques (g) to (j) given below. Technique Description Applicability Prevention of emissions This includes techniques such as General techniques for — selection of an appropriate lubricant to prevent castings a. gravity and low-pres­ surface defects; sure die-casting — optimised lubricant preparation and application to avoid excessive use. This includes techniques such as: — proper lubrication of the die and plungers using water- based emulsions of silicone oils, ester oils, synthetic General techniques for waxes for example; b. high-pressure die-cast­ — minimisation of the release agent and water consump­ ing tion by optimising the spraying process, e.g. use of mi­ cro-spraying for application of release agents (see also ΒΑΤ 17 (b)). In centrifugal casting, important process parameters such as Generally applicable. mould rotation, pouring temperature and mould preheating Optimisation of pro­ temperature are optimised (e.g. using flow simulation) to re­ cess parameters for duce the number of defects and minimise emissions. c. centrifugal and contin­ In continuous casting, the casting rate, casting temperature uous casting and cooling rate are optimised to minimise emissions and reduce the amount of water consumed for cooling while reaching the required product specification. Separate spraying of re­ lease agent and water in d. See Section 1.4.2. high-pressure die-cast­ ing Use of water-free re­ Water-free release agents (e.g. in a powdered form) are ap­ e. lease agents in high- plied to the die using electrostatic deposition. pressure die-casting 48/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Collection of emissions Extraction of emissions Emissions generated from the casting process including generated from the high-pressure/low-pressure/gravity die-casting, centrifugal f. casting process as close Generally applicable. and continuous casting are extracted using enclosures or ex­ as possible to the emis­ traction hoods. sion source Off-gas treatment g. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3. h. Wet scrubbing See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. Electrostatic precipita­ i. See Section 1.4.3. tor Applicability of recupera­ tive and regenerative ther­ mal oxidation to existing plants may be restricted by design and/or opera­ tional constraints. Ap­ j. Thermal oxidation See Section 1.4.3. plicability may be re­ stricted where the energy demand is excessive due to the low concentration of the compound(s) con­ cerned in the process off- gases. Table 1.11 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust, TVOC and lead from the casting process in foundries using permanent moulds BAT-AELs Substance/Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Dust 1– 5 mg/Nm3 Pb 0,05– 0,1(1) TVOC mg C/Nm3 2– 30(2)(3) (1) The BAT-AEL only applies to lead foundries. (2) The BAT-AEL only applies when TVOC is identified as relevant in the waste gas streams based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. (3) The BAT-AEL only applies when cores with chemically bonded sand are used. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 49/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.1.12. Emissions to air from finishing BAT 30. In order to reduce dust emissions to air from finishing, BAT is to collect the emissions using technique (a) and to treat the off-gases by using one or a combination of the techniques (b) to (d) given below. Technique Description Collection of emissions Emissions generated from finishing operations, such as deburring, abrasive cutting, fettling, Extraction of slide grinding, shot blasting, welding, chiselling, needling, are appropriately extracted using, emissions gener­ e.g.: ated from finish­ a. — enclosure of the finishing process area; ing as close as pos­ — roof ventilation or dome-shaped roofs; sible to the — rigid or adjustable extraction hoods; emission source — extraction arms. Off-gas treatment b. Cyclone See Section 1.4.3. c. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3. d. Wet scrubbing See Section 1.4.3. Table 1.12 BAT-associated emission level (BAT-AEL) for channelled emissions to air of dust from finishing BAT-AEL Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Dust mg/Nm3 1– 5 The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. 1.2.1.13. Emissions to air from sand reuse BAT 31. In order to reduce emissions to air from sand reuse, BAT is to: — in the case of thermal sand regeneration, use either electricity generated from fossil-free energy sources or both of the techniques (a) and (b); — collect the emissions using technique (c); — treat the off-gases by using one or an appropriate combination of the techniques (d) to (g) given below. Technique Description Applicability Techniques for reducing the generation of emissions Use of a fuel or a Applicable within the constraints associated combination of Fuels with a low NO formation potential X with the availability of different types of fuel, a. fuels with low include natural gas and liquefied petroleum which may be impacted by the energy policy of NO formation gas. X the Member State. potential 50/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Use of a fuel or a Applicable within the constraints associated combination of Fuels with low sulphur content include nat­ with the availability of different types of fuel, b. fuels with low sul­ ural gas and liquefied petroleum gas. which may be impacted by the energy policy of phur content the Member State. Collection of emissions Extraction of Emissions generated from sand reclamation emissions gener­ are extracted using an enclosure or a hood ated from sand re­ for example. This includes extraction of the c. Generally applicable. use as close as pos­ flue-gases generated from fluidised bed fur­ sible to the naces, rotary kilns or hearth furnaces, etc. emission source used in thermal sand regeneration. Off-gas treatment d. Cyclone See Section 1.4.3. e. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. f. Wet scrubbing See Section 1.4.3. Applicability of recuperative and regenerative thermal oxidation to existing plants may be re­ stricted by design and/or operational constraints. Thermal oxida­ g. See Section 1.4.3. Applicability may be restricted where the energy tion demand is excessive due to the low concentra­ tion of the compound(s) concerned in the pro­ cess off-gases. Table 1.13 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust and TVOC from sand reuse BAT-AEL Substance/Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Dust mg/Nm3 1– 5 TVOC mg C/Nm3 5– 20(1) (1) The upper end of the BAT-AEL range may be higher and up to 50 mg C/Nm3 with a high share of core sand in sand reuse. Table 1.14 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of NO and SO from sand reuse X 2 BAT-AEL Substance/Parameter Process Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Thermal regeneration of sand originating from the NO 50– 140 x cold-box process mg/Nm3 Thermal regeneration of sand in which sulphonic SO 10– 100 2 acid catalysts have been used ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 51/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. 1.2.1.14. Odour BAT 32. In order to prevent or, where that is not practicable, to reduce odour emissions, BAT is to set up, implement and regularly review an odour management plan, as part of the environmental management system (see BAT 1), that includes all of the following elements: — A protocol containing appropriate actions and timelines. — A protocol for conducting odour monitoring as set out in BAT 33. The protocol may be complemented by measurement/estimation of odour exposure or estimation of odour impact. — A protocol for response to identified odour incidents, e.g. managing complaints and/or taking corrective actions. — An odour prevention and reduction programme designed to identify the source(s); to measure/estimate odour exposure; to characterise the contributions of the sources; and to implement prevention and/or reduction measures. Applicability The applicability is restricted to cases where an odour nuisance at sensitive receptors is expected and/or has been substantiated. BAT 33. BAT is to periodically perform odour monitoring. Description Odour can be monitored using the following: — EN standards (e.g. dynamic olfactometry according to EN 13725 in order to determine the odour concentration and/or EN 16841-1 or -2 in order to determine the odour exposure). — Alternative methods (e.g. estimation of odour impact) for which no EN standards are available. In such a case, ISO, national or other international standards that ensure the provision of data of an equivalent scientific quality can be used. The monitoring frequency is determined in the odour management plan (see BAT 32). Applicability The applicability is restricted to cases where an odour nuisance at sensitive receptors is expected and/or has been substantiated. BAT 34. In order to prevent or, where that is not practicable, to reduce odour emissions, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability Applicability of water-based coatings This includes techniques such as: may be restricted due to the type of — the use of water-based coatings (see Substitution of chemicals raw material or product specifications BAT 25 (l)); a. containing alcohol-based (e.g. big moulds/cores, water glass — the use of alternative solvents in or aromatic solvents bonded sands, Mg castings, produc­ cold-box core-making (see BAT tion of manganese steel with MgO 25 (h)). coating). 52/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Off-gases containing amines, generated Collection and treatment from the gassing of cold-box cores are of amine emissions from b. extracted and treated using for example the cold-box core-making wet scrubbing, a biofilter, thermal or cat­ process alytic oxidation (see BAT 26). Off-gases containing VOCs, generated Generally applicable. Collection and treatment from the preparation of chemically of VOC emissions from bonded sand, pouring, cooling and c. chemically bonded sand shake-out are extracted and treated using preparation, pouring, for example wet scrubbing, a biofilter, cooling and shake-out thermal or catalytic oxidation (see BAT 26). 1.2.1.15. Water consumption and waste water generation BAT 35. In order to optimise water consumption and to reduce the volume of waste water generated as well as to improve water recyclability, BAT is to use both techniques (a) and (b), and an appropriate combination of the techniques (c) to (g) given below. Technique Description Applicability A water management plan and audits are part of the EMS (see BAT 1) and include: — flow diagrams and water mass balances of the plant as part of the inventory of inputs and outputs The level of detail of the mentioned in BAT 2; water management plan — establishment of water efficiency objectives; Water management and audits will generally a. — implementation of water optimisation techniques plan and audits be related to the nature, (e.g. control of water usage, reuse/recycling, detec­ scale and complexity of tion and repair of leaks). the plant. Audits are carried out at least once every year to ensure that the objectives of the water management plan are met and the audit recommendations are followed-up and implemented. Applicability to existing Segregation of water plants may be restricted b. See Section 1.4.4. streams by the layout of the water collection system. The degree of water reuse and/or recycling is limited Water streams (e.g. process water, effluents from wet by the water balance of the Water reuse and/or re­ scrubbing, cooling water) are reused and/or recycled in c. plant, the content of im­ cycling closed or semi-closed circuits, if necessary after treat­ purities and/or the char­ ment (see BAT 36). acteristics of the water streams. Prevention of waste water generation from d. See BAT 4 (b). Generally applicable. process and storage areas ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 53/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Use of dry dedusting This includes techniques such as fabric filters and dry e. Generally applicable. systems ESPs (see Section 1.4.3). Separate spraying of release agent and f. See Section 1.4.2. Generally applicable. water in high-pressure die-casting Applicability may be re­ stricted by the physico- Use of waste heat for When waste heat is available on a continuous basis, it chemical properties of g. the evaporation of can be used to evaporate waste water. the pollutants present in waste water the waste water that can be emitted into the air. Table 1.15 BAT-associated environmental performance levels (BAT-AEPLs) for specific water consumption BAT-AEPL Foundry type Unit (Yearly average) Cast iron foundries Steel foundries 0,5– 4 m3/t of liquid metal Non-ferrous metal foundries (all types except HPDC) Non-ferrous metal HPDC foundries 0,5– 7 The associated monitoring is given in BAT 6. 1.2.1.16. Emissions to water BAT 36. In order to reduce emissions to water, BAT is to treat waste water using an appropriate combination of the techniques given below. Technique(1) Typical pollutants targeted Preliminary, primary and general treatment, e.g. a. Equalisation All pollutants b. Neutralisation Acids, alkalis Physical separation through for example screens, sieves, grit c. separators, grease separators, hydrocyclones, oil-water se­ Gross solids, suspended solids, oil/grease parators or primary settlement tanks Physico-chemical treatment, e.g. Adsorbable dissolved non-biodegradable or inhibitory d. Adsorption pollutants, e.g. hydrocarbons, mercury, AOX Precipitable dissolved non-biodegradable or inhibitory e. Chemical precipitation pollutants, e.g. metals, fluoride f. Evaporation Soluble contaminants, e.g. salts 54/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique(1) Typical pollutants targeted Biological treatment, e.g. g. Activated sludge process Biodegradable organic compounds h. Membrane bioreactor Solids removal, e.g. i. Coagulation and flocculation Suspended solids and particulate-bound metals Suspended solids and particulate-bound metals or j. Sedimentation non-biodegradable or inhibitory pollutants Filtration, e.g. sand filtration, microfiltration, ultrafiltration, k. reverse osmosis Suspended solids and particulate-bound metals l. Flotation (1) The descriptions of the techniques are given in Section 1.4.4. Table 1.16 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for direct discharges Substance/Parameter Unit BAT-AEL(1) Origin of waste water stream(s) Adsorbable organically bound halogens Wet scrubbing of cupola off-gases 0,1– 1 (AOX)(2) Chemical oxygen demand (COD)(3) 25– 120 Total organic carbon (TOC)(3) 8– 40 Total suspended solids (TSS) 5– 25 Hydrocarbon oil index (HOI)(2) 0,1– 5 Copper (Cu)(2) 0,1– 0,4 Die-casting, off-gas treatment (e.g. wet mg/l scrubbing), finishing, heat treatment, Chromium (Cr)(2) 0,1– 0,2 contaminated surface run-off water, direct cooling, wet sand regeneration and Metals Lead (Pb)(2) 0,1– 0,3 cupola furnace slag granulation. Nickel (Ni)(2) 0,1– 0,5 Zinc (Zn)(2) 0,5– 2 Phenol index 0,05– 0,5(4) Total nitrogen (TN)(2) 1– 20 (1) The averaging periods are defined in the General considerations. (2) The BAT-AELs only apply when the substance/parameter concerned is identified as relevant in the waste water stream based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. (3) Either the BAT-AEL for COD or the BAT-AEL for TOC applies. The BAT-AEL for TOC is the preferred option because TOC monitoring does not rely on the use of very toxic compounds. (4) The BAT-AEL only applies when phenolic binding systems are used. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 13. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 55/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Table 1.17 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for indirect discharges Substance/Parameter Unit BAT-AEL(1)(2) Origin of waste water stream(s) Adsorbable organically bound halo­ Wet scrubbing of cupola off-gases 0,1– 1 gens (AOX) (3) Hydrocarbon oil index (HOI)(3) 0,1– 5 Copper (Cu)(3) 0,1– 0,4 Chromium (Cr)(3) 0,1– 0,2 Die-casting, off-gas treatment (e.g. wet mg/l scrubbing), finishing, heat treatment, Metals Lead (Pb)(3) 0,1– 0,3 contaminated surface run-off water, direct cooling, wet sand regeneration Nickel (Ni)(3) 0,1– 0,5 and cupola furnace slag granulation. Zinc (Zn)(3) 0,5– 2 Phenol index 0,05– 0,5(4) (1) The averaging periods are defined in the general considerations. (2) The BAT-AELs may not apply if the downstream waste water treatment plant is designed and equipped appropriately to abate the pollutants concerned, provided this does not lead to a higher level of pollution in the environment. (3) The BAT-AELs only apply when the substance/parameter concerned is identified as relevant in the waste water stream based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in ΒΑΤ 2. (4) The BAT-AEL only applies when phenolic binding systems are used. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 13. 1.2.2. BAT conclusions for cast iron foundries The BAT conclusions in this section apply in addition to the general BAT conclusions given in Sections 1.1 and 1.2.1. 1.2.2.1. Energy efficiency BAT 37. In order to increase energy efficiency in metal melting, BAT is to use an appropriate combination of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability Only applicable to new plants and major plant Increase of shaft upgrades. a. height in CBC fur­ See Section 1.4.1. Applicability to existing naces plants may be restricted by building and other structural constraints. Oxygen enrich­ b. ment of the com­ See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. bustion air Minimal blast c. shut-off periods See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. for HBC furnaces 56/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Long-campaign d. See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. cupola Post-combustion e. See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. of off-gases The BAT-AEPLs for specific energy consumption are given in BAT 14. 1.2.2.2. Emissions to air from thermal processes 1.2.2.2.1. Emissions to air from metal melting BAT 38. In order to prevent or reduce emissions to air from metal melting, BAT is to: — use an appropriate combination of process-integrated techniques (a) to (e) in the case of cupola furnaces; — collect the emissions using technique (f); — treat the extracted off-gases using one or an appropriate combination of the techniques (g) to (l) given below. Technique Description Applicability Process-integrated techniques for cupola furnaces Coke is purchased based on important quality specifications (e.g. Control of coke a. fixed carbon, ash, volatile matter, sulphur and moisture content, quality mean size diameter) which are systematically controlled before use. Generally applicable. Adjustment of b. the slag acidity/ See Section 1.4.3. basicity Only applicable to new plants and major plant Increase of shaft upgrades. c. height in CBC fur­ See Section 1.4.1. Applicability to existing naces plants may be restricted by building and other structural constraints. Oxygen enrich­ d. ment of the com­ See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. bustion air Long-campaign e. See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. cupola ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 57/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Collection of emissions In cupola furnaces, the off-gases are extracted either: — above the charge-hole offtake at the end of the cupola stack using ductwork and a downstream fan; or — below the charge-hole offtake using an annular ring. After extraction, the off-gases are cooled for example using: — long ducts to decrease the temperature by natural convection; — air/gas or oil/gas heat exchangers; — water quenching. For induction furnaces, off-gases are extracted, for example using: Off-gas extrac­ — hood extraction (e.g. canopy or side-draught hoods); tion as close as — lip extraction; f. Generally applicable. possible to the — cover extraction. emission source For rotary furnaces, off-gases are extracted, for example using hood extraction. For EAFs, off-gases are extracted, for example using: — roof-mounted hood extraction; — canopy or side-draught hoods; — partial furnace enclosures (mobile or fixed) mounted around the furnace and tapping area; — total furnace enclosure using a complete room enclosure around the furnace and tapping area equipped with a moveable roof for charging/tapping operations. Off-gas treatment Post-combustion g. See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. of off-gases h. Cyclone See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. i. Adsorption See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. Dry powder or a suspension/solution of an alkaline reagent (e.g. lime or sodium bicarbonate) is introduced and dispersed in the off- j. Dry scrubbing Generally applicable. gas stream. The material reacts with the acidic gaseous species (e.g. SO ) to form a solid which is removed by filtration (e.g. fabric filter). 2 k. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. l. Wet scrubbing See Section 1.4.3. Generally applicable. 58/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Table 1.18 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust, HCl, HF, NO , PCDD/F, SO , X 2 TVOC, lead, and indicative emission level for channelled emissions to air of CO from metal melting BAT-AEL Indicative emission level Substance/Parameter Unit Furnace type (Daily average or average over (Daily average or average the sampling period) over the sampling period) Induction, rotary, 1– 5 EAF Dust CBC, HBC 1– 7(1) No indicative emission level HCl CBC, HBC 10– 30(2) HF CBC, HBC, rotary 1– 3(2) furnaces mg/Nm3 Rotary furnaces No BAT-AEL 10 – 30 CO CBC, HBC No BAT-AEL 20 – 220 HBC 20–160 NO CBC 20– 70 X Rotary furnaces 20– 100 CBC, HBC, rotary < 0,01– 0,08 furnaces ng WHO- PCDD/F TEQ/Nm3 Induction < 0,01– 0,08(3) No indicative emission level HBC 30– 100 SO mg/Nm3 Rotary furnaces 10– 50 2 CBC 50– 150 TVOC mg C/Nm3 All furnace types 5– 30 Pb mg/Nm3 CBC, HBC 0,02– 0,1(3) (1) For existing HBC plants using wet scrubbing, the upper end of the BAT-AEL range may be higher and up to 12 mg/Nm3 until the next major upgrade of the cupola. (2) The lower end of the BAT-AEL range can be achieved by using dry lime injection. (3) The BAT-AEL only applies when the substance/parameter concerned is identified as relevant in the waste gas stream based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 59/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.2.2.2. Emissions to air from the nodularisation of cast iron BAT 39. In order to prevent or reduce dust emissions to air from the nodularisation of cast iron, BAT is to use technique (a) or both of the techniques (b) and (c) given below. Technique Description Nodularisation with no Use of the in-mould process whereby the magnesium alloy is added as a tablet, directly into a. magnesium oxide the mould cavity, and the nodularisation reaction takes place during pouring. emissions Off-gas extraction as When magnesium oxide emissions are generated from the nodularisation technique used b. close as possible to the (e.g. sandwich, ductilator), off-gases are extracted as close as possible to the emission emission source source using a fixed or movable extraction hood. See Section 1.4.3. The magnesium oxide collected may be reused for the production of c. Fabric filter pigments or refractory materials. Table 1.19 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust from the nodularisation of cast iron BAT-AEL(1) Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Dust mg/Nm3 1– 5 (1) The BAT-AEL does not apply when technique (a) is used. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. 1.2.3. BAT conclusions for steel foundries The BAT conclusions in this section apply in addition to the general BAT conclusions given in Sections 1.1 and 1.2.1. 1.2.3.1. Emissions to air from thermal processes 1.2.3.1.1. Emissions to air from metal melting BAT 40. In order to prevent or reduce emissions to air from metal melting, BAT is to use both of the techniques given below. Technique Description Collection of emissions The off-gases from induction furnaces are extracted, for example using: — hood extraction (e.g. canopy or side-draught hoods); — lip extraction; — cover extraction. Off-gas extrac­ The off-gases from EAFs are extracted, for example using: tion as close as a. — partial furnace enclosures (mobile or fixed) mounted around the furnace and tapping possible to the area; emission source — total furnace enclosure using a complete room enclosure around the furnace and tapping area equipped with a moveable roof for charging/tapping operations; — hood extraction (e.g. roof-mounted, canopy or side-draught hoods); — direct extraction through the fourth hole in the furnace roof. 60/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Off-gas treatment b. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3. Table 1.20 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust and PCDD/F BAT-AEL Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Dust mg/Nm3 1– 5 PCDD/F ng WHO-TEQ / Nm3 < 0,01– 0,08(1) (1) The BAT-AEL only applies when PCDD/F are identified as relevant in the waste gas stream based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. 1.2.3.1.2. Emissions to air from steel refining BAT 41. In order to reduce emissions to air from steel refining, BAT is to use both of the techniques given below. Technique Description Collection of emissions Off-gas extrac­ Off-gases from steel refining (e.g. from Argon Oxygen Decarburisation (AOD) or Vacuum tion as close as Oxygen Decarburisation (VOD) converters) are extracted using for example a direct extraction a. possible to the hood or a roof canopy combined with an accelerator stack. Extracted off-gases are treated emission source using technique (b). Off-gas treatment b. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3. Table 1.21 BAT-associated emission level (BAT-AEL) for channelled emissions to air of dust from steel refining BAT-AEL Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the sampling period) Dust mg/Nm3 1– 5 The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 61/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.2.4. BAT conclusions for non-ferrous metal foundries The BAT conclusions in this section apply in addition to the general BAT conclusions given in Sections 1.1 and 1.2.1. 1.2.4.1. Energy efficiency BAT 42. In order to increase energy efficiency in metal melting, BAT is to use one of the techniques given below. Technique Description A pump is installed on reverberatory furnaces to force the circulation of molten Molten metal circulation in a. metal and minimise the temperature gradient throughout the molten bath (from reverberatory furnaces top to bottom). Minimisation of energy Crucible furnaces are covered using a lid and/or equipped with radiant panel linings b. losses by radiation in cruci­ to minimise energy losses by radiation. ble furnaces The BAT-AEPLs for specific energy consumption are given in BAT 14. 1.2.4.2. Emissions to air from thermal processes 1.2.4.2.1. Emissions to air from metal melting BAT 43. In order to reduce emissions to air from metal melting, BAT is to collect the emissions using technique (a) and to treat the off-gases using one or a combination of the techniques (b) to (e) given below. Technique Description Collection of emissions Off-gases from shaft, crucible, resistance, reverberatory (hearth-type) and radiant roof furnaces are extracted using hood extraction (e.g. canopy hoods). The extraction equipment is fitted in Off-gas extraction such a way that it enables the capture of emissions during pouring. as close as possi­ Off-gases from induction furnaces are extracted, for example using: a. ble to the emis­ — hood extraction (e.g. canopy or side-draught hoods); sion source — lip extraction; — cover extraction. Off-gases from rotary furnaces are extracted, for example using hood extraction. Off-gas treatment b. Cyclone See Section 1.4.3 c. Dry scrubbing See Section 1.4.3 d. Fabric filter See Section 1.4.3 e. Wet scrubbing See Section 1.4.3 62/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Table 1.22 BAT-associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) for channelled emissions to air of dust, HCl, HF, NO , PCDD/Fs, SO , X 2 Pb, and indicative emission level for channelled emissions to air of CO, from metal melting BAT-AEL Indicative emission level Substance/Parameter Unit (Daily average or average over the (Daily average or average over the sampling period) sampling period) Dust 1– 5 HCl 1– 3(1)(6) No indicative emission level HF mg/Nm3 < 1(1) CO No BAT-AEL 5– 30(2)(3) NO 20– 50(4)(5) X PCDD/F ng WHO-TEQ/Nm3 < 0,01– 0,08(6) No indicative emission level SO < 10(4)(7) 2 mg/Nm3 Pb < 0,02– 0,1(8) (1) The BAT-AEL only applies to aluminium foundries. (2) The upper end of the indicative emission level may be higher and up to 70 mg/Nm3 in the case of shaft furnaces. (3) The indicative emission level does not apply in the case of furnaces using only electric energy (e.g. resistance). (4) The BAT-AEL does not apply in the case of furnaces using only electric energy (e.g. resistance). (5) The upper end of the BAT-AEL range may be higher and up to 100 mg/Nm3 in the case of shaft furnaces. (6) The BAT-AEL only applies when the substance/parameter concerned is identified as relevant in the waste gas stream based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. (7) The BAT-AEL does not apply when only natural gas is used. (8) The BAT-AEL only applies to lead foundries or to other NFM foundries using lead as an alloying element. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 12. 1.2.4.3. Emissions to air from the treatment and protection of molten metal BAT 44. It is not BAT to use chlorine gas for molten aluminium treatment (degassing/cleaning). BAT 45. In order to prevent emissions of substances with a high global warming potential from the protection of molten metal in magnesium melting, BAT is to use oxidation control agents with a low global warming potential. Description Suitable oxidation control agents (covering gases) with a low global warming potential include: — SO ; 2 — gas mixtures of N , CO and/or SO ; 2 2 2 — gas mixtures of argon and SO . 2 The use of SO results in the formation of a protective layer composed of MgSO , MgS and MgO. 2 4 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 63/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.3. BAT conclusions for smitheries The BAT conclusions in this section apply in addition to the general BAT conclusions given in Section 1.1. 1.3.1. Energy efficiency BAT 46. In order to increase energy efficiency in heating/reheating and heat treatment, BAT is to use all the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability This includes techniques such as: — optimisation of key furnace characteristics (e.g. number and type of burners, airtightness, furnace insulation using suitable refractory materials); — minimisation of heat losses from furnace door openings, e.g. Only applicable to new Optimisation of by using several liftable segments instead of one in a. plants and major plant up­ furnace design continuous reheating furnaces; grades. — minimisation of the number of feedstock-supporting structures inside the furnace (e.g. beams, skids) and use of suitable insulation to reduce the heat losses from water cooling of the supporting structures in continuous reheating furnaces. Furnace automa­ b. See Section 1.4.1. Generally applicable. tion and control This includes techniques such as: — ensuring that feedstock heating/reheating target Optimisation of temperatures are consistently met; c. feedstock heat­ — switching off equipment during idle periods; Generally applicable. ing/reheating — furnace operation optimisation, e.g. furnace capacity utilisation, correction of the air/fuel ratio, improvement of insulation. Applicability to existing plants may be restricted by Preheating of d. See Section 1.4.1. a lack of space for the in­ combustion air stallation of regenerative burners. Table 1.23 Indicative level for specific energy consumption at plant level Indicative level Sector Unit (Yearly average) Smitheries kWh/t of feedstock 1 700– 6 500 The associated monitoring is given in BAT 6. 64/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.3.2. Material efficiency BAT 47. In order to increase the material efficiency and to reduce the quantity of waste sent for disposal, BAT is to use all of the techniques given below. Technique Description a. This includes techniques such as: — computerised management of processes, e.g. heating/reheating cycles, hammering sequences; Process optimisation — selection of an appropriate hammer according to raw material size; — adjustment of raw material size, either in the forging line (fully automated) or in the organisational area of the material shearing (manual), in order to minimise the amount of residues and the number of process operations. b. This includes techniques such as: — Use of computer-aided design for optimising forging tools and forging (die) Optimisation of raw and geometry in order to reduce the need for forging tests; auxiliary material con­ — selection of an appropriate type of coolant/lubricant forging, e.g. synthetic lubricant sumption for closed-die forging, water-based dispersions of graphite; — systems for collecting and recirculating coolants/lubricants in closed-die forging. c Recycling of process re­ Process residues (e.g. metallic residues from the processes of preparation of raw sidues materials, hammering and finishing; used shot blast media) are recycled and/or reused. 1.3.3. Vibrations BAT 48. In order to reduce vibrations occurring from the hammering process, BAT is to use vibration- reducing and insulating techniques. Description Vibration-reducing and insulating techniques for hammering equipment include the installation of vibration- damping components, e.g. layered elastomeric isolators or viscous spring isolators below the anvil, spring casings below the hammer foundation. Applicability Only applicable to new plants and/or major plant upgrades. 1.3.4. Monitoring of emissions to air BAT 49. BAT is to monitor channelled emissions to air with at least the frequency given below, and in accordance with EN standards. If EN standards are not available, BAT is to use ISO, national or other international standards that ensure the provision of data of an equivalent scientific quality. Minimum monitoring Monitoring associated Substance/Parameter Specific process Standard(s) frequency(1) with Nitrogen oxides (NO ) Heating/reheating, X EN 14792 heat treatment Once every year BAT 50 Carbon monoxide (CO) Heating/reheating, EN 15058 heat treatment (1) To the extent possible, the measurements are carried out at the highest expected emission state under normal operating conditions. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 65/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.3.5. Emissions to air 1.3.5.1. Diffuse emissions to air BAT 50. In order to prevent or reduce diffuse emissions to air, BAT is to use both of the techniques given below. Technique Description This includes techniques such as: — use of closed bags or drums to handle materials with dispersible or water- Operational and technical mea­ a. soluble components, e.g. auxiliaries; sures — minimising transport distances; — efficient material handling. Extraction of emissions from Emissions from shot blasting. Extracted off-gases are treated using techniques b. shot blasting such as fabric filters. 1.3.5.2. Emissions to air from heating/reheating and heat treatment BAT 51. In order to prevent or reduce NO emissions to air from heating, reheating and heat treatment X while limiting CO emissions, BAT is to use either electricity generated from fossil-free energy sources or an appropriate combination of the techniques given below. Technique Description Applicability Use of a fuel or a combina­ Fuels with a low NO formation potential include a. tion of fuels with low NO X X natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas. formation potential Measures taken to maximise the efficiency of en­ ergy conversion in the furnace while minimising emissions (in particular of CO). This is achieved by a combination of techniques including good Generally applicable. b. Combustion optimisation design of the furnace, optimisation of the tem­ perature (e.g. efficient mixing of the fuel and combustion air) and residence time in the com­ bustion zone, and use of furnace automation and control. Furnace automation and c. See Section 1.4.1. control Recirculation (external) of part of the flue-gas to the combustion chamber to replace part of the fresh combustion air, with the dual effect of low­ ering the temperature and limiting the O content 2 Applicability to existing plants may d. Flue-gas recirculation for nitrogen oxidation, thus limiting the NO X be restricted by a lack of space. generation. It implies the supply of flue-gas from the furnace into the flame to reduce the oxygen content and therefore the temperature of the flame. Applicability to existing plants may e. Low-NO burners See Section 1.4.3. be restricted by design and/or opera­ X tional constraints. 66/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability Limiting the air preheating temperature leads to a decrease of the concentration of NO emissions. Limiting the temperature X f. A balance has to be achieved between maximis­ Generally applicable. of air preheating ing heat recovery from the flue-gas and minimis­ ing NO emissions. X Applicability to existing plants may be restricted by furnace design and g. Oxy-fuel combustion See Section 1.4.3. the need for a minimum waste gas flow. Applicability to existing plants may be restricted by furnace design (i.e. furnace volume, space for burners, distance between burners) and the need for a change of the furnace re­ h. Flameless combustion See Section 1.4.3. fractory lining. Not applicable to fur­ naces operating at a temperature lower than the auto-ignition tem­ perature required for flameless com­ bustion. Table 1.24 BAT-associated emission level (BAT-AEL) for channelled emissions to air of NO and indicative emission level for X channelled emissions to air of CO BAT-AEL Indicative emission level Parameter Unit Process(es) (Daily average or average (Daily average or average over the over the sampling period) sampling period) Heating / reheating / heat NO 100– 250(1) No indicative level X treatment mg/Nm3 Heating / reheating / heat CO No BAT-AEL 10– 100 teatment (1) The upper end of the BAT-AEL range may be higher and up to 350 mg/Nm3 when recuperative/regenerative burners are used. The associated monitoring is given in BAT 48. 1.3.6. Water consumption and waste water generation BAT 52. In order to optimise water consumption and to reduce the volume of waste water generated, BAT is to use both of the techniques (a) and (b) given below: Technique Description Applicability Applicability to existing Segregation of water plants may be restricted by a. See Section 1.4.4. streams the layout of the water col­ lection system. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 67/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Applicability The degree of water reuse and/or recycling is limited Water streams (e.g. process water, cooling water) are re­ Water reuse and/or re­ by the water balance of the b. used and/or recycled in closed or semi-closed circuits, if cycling plant, the content of impu­ necessary after treatment. rities and/or the character­ istics of the water streams. Note: BAT 52 only applies when waste water generation is identified as relevant based on the inventory of inputs and outputs mentioned in BAT 2. 68/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 1.4. Descriptions of techniques 1.4.1. Techniques to increase energy efficiency Technique Description Furnace automation and The heating process is optimised by using a computer system controlling key parameters such as control furnace and feedstock temperature, the air to fuel ratio and the furnace pressure. Measures are taken to maximise the efficiency of the casting process and to decrease the generation of scrap, e.g.: — optimising melting and pouring operations to reduce, for example, melting losses, excessive Improving casting yield pigging, scrap generation rates; and decreasing scrap — optimising moulding and core-making to reduce scrap generation resulting from generation deficiencies in moulds and cores; — optimising gating and rising systems; — using insulated exothermic feeders. Increase of shaft height Increasing the shaft height in cold blast cupola furnaces enables combustion gases to remain in in CBC furnaces contact with the charge for longer, resulting in a higher heat transfer. The cupola furnace is set up for long campaign operation to minimise maintenance and process changes. This may be achieved by using more resistant furnace refractory linings in the shaft, Long-campaign cupola bottom and hearth, by using water cooling of the furnace wall and with water-cooled blasting pipes penetrating deeper into the furnace shaft. Minimal blast shut-off Minimisation of blast shut-off periods by programming the schedules of the moulding and periods for HBC furnaces casting processes to ensure a reasonably constant demand for metal. Combustion air is replaced fully or partially with pure oxygen. Oxy-fuel combustion can be used Oxy-fuel combustion in combination with flameless combustion. Oxygen enrichment of Oxygen enrichment of the combustion air is realised either directly at the blast supply or the combustion air through injection of oxygen into the coke bed, or via the tuyères. Post-combustion of off- See Section 1.4.3. gases Reuse of part of the heat recovered from the combustion flue-gas to preheat the air used in Preheating of combus­ combustion. This may be achieved for example by using regenerative or recuperative burners tion air (see below). A balance has to be achieved between maximising heat recovery from the flue-gas and minimising NO emissions. X Recuperative burners employ different types of recuperators (e.g. heat exchangers with radiation, Recuperative burner convection, compact or radiant tube designs) to directly recover heat from the flue-gases, which are then used to preheat the combustion air. Regenerative burners consist of two burners which are operated alternately and which contain beds of refractory or ceramic materials. While one burner is in operation, the heat of the flue- Regenerative burner gas is absorbed by the refractory or ceramic materials of the other burner and then used to preheat the combustion air. Selection of an energy- Furnace energy efficiency is taken into consideration for the furnace selection, e.g. furnaces that efficient type of furnace allow the preheating and drying of incoming charge prior to the melting zone. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 69/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Measures taken to maximise the efficiency of energy conversion in melting and heat treatment furnaces while minimising emissions (in particular of dust and CO). This is achieved by applying a series of process optimisation measures according to the furnace type including optimisation of the temperature (e.g. efficient mixing of the fuel and combustion air) and residence time in the combustion zone, and use of furnace automation and control (see above). Measures for some specific furnaces include the following: For cupola furnaces: — optimisation of operational regime; — avoidance of excess temperature; — uniform charging; — minimisation of air losses; — good lining practice. For induction furnaces: — feedstock conditions (e.g. optimum size and density for input materials and scrap); — closure of furnace lid; — minimum holding time; — keeping a liquid heel in the furnace; — addition of carburisers at the beginning of the melting cycle; — operation at maximum power input level; — temperature control to prevent overheating; — prevention of excessive slag build-up by optimising melting temperatures; — minimisation and control of the wear of furnace refractory lining; — when several induction furnaces are in operation, the energy use is optimised through peak load management. Techniques for maximis­ ing the thermal effi­ For rotary furnaces: ciency of furnaces — use of anthracite and silicon for melt protection; — adjustment of the continuous or discontinuous speed rotation of the furnace to achieve maximum heat transfer; — adjustment of the power and angle of the burner to achieve maximum heat transfer. For EAFs: — shorter metal melting and/or treatment times using advanced control methods for example for the composition and the weight of the charged materials, the temperature of the melt, as well as by efficient sampling and deslagging methods. For shaft furnaces: — choice of the furnace size according to continuous melt demand, to achieve a continuous melting process; — keeping the shaft filled with charging material to have optimum heat recovery; — adapting the shaft design to the designated charging material for an optimum charging material distribution in the shaft; — regularly cleaning the furnace; — independent control of the fuel/air ratio for each gas-fired burner; — continuous CO or hydrogen monitoring for each row of burners; — addition of oxygen above the melting zone to provide afterburning in the upper level of the shaft; — preheating of the charge using waste heat recovered from the flue-gases. For reverbatory furnaces: — preheating of the charge in the case of dry hearth or side-well reverberatory furnaces; — use of burners with automatic temperature control. 70/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description For crucible furnaces: — preheating of the crucible prior to charging; — use of crucibles with high thermal conductivity and thermal shock resistance (e.g. graphite); — cleaning of crucible walls immediately after emptying to remove slag or dross. Melting clean scrap prevents the risk of non-metal compounds being taken up by the slag and/or Use of clean scrap degrading the furnace or ladle refractory linings. 1.4.2. Techniques to increase material efficiency Technique Description Adjustment of the slag acid­ Use of an appropriate flux (e.g. limestone for acidic and calcium fluoride for basic cupola ity/basicity operations) to render the slag fluid enough to separate from the iron. Improving casting yield and See Section 1.4.1. decreasing scrap generation Mechanical pretreatment of slag / dross / filter dust / spent Generated slag / dross / filter dust / spent refractory linings are pretreated on site, by using refractory linings to facilitate techniques such as crushing, segregation, granulation, magnetic separation. recycling Measures to optimise binder and resin consumption include: — use of a sand quality which is consistent with the binder system; — good management of sand storage and sand testing (purity, grain size, shape, moisture); Optimisation of binder and — temperature control; resin consumption — mixer maintenance and cleaning; — checking mould quality (to prevent and if necessary repair moulding defects); — optimising binder addition process; — optimising mixer operation. Water and release agents are applied separately to the mould using an additional row of Separate spraying of release nozzles mounted on the spray head. Water is sprayed first, leading to a significant cooling agent and water in high-pres­ of the mould before the application of the release agent, which results in reduced emissions sure die-casting and consumption of release agents and water. Practices include the following (according to the binding system used): — Temperature control: the temperature of the sand is kept as constant as possible and low enough to prevent emissions caused by evaporation. For phenolic- and furan- acid-catalysed, polyurethane and ester silicate systems, the optimum temperature range is between 15 °C and 25 °C. For resol-ester systems, the optimum temperature Use of best practices for cold- range is between 15 °C and 35 °C; setting processes — for furan-acid-catalysed systems: — the content of free (monomer) furfuryl alcohol in the resin is minimised (e.g. less than 40 wt-%); and — the sulphur content of the acid catalyst is reduced by substituting a portion of the sulphonic acid with a strong sulphur-free organic acid. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 71/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Practices include the following (according to the hardening process used): For phenolic urethane resins (cold-box process): — the consumption of amines is minimised by optimising the diffusion process within the core, typically through computer simulation for optimisation of the gas flow; — the sand temperature is maintained as constant as possible, between 20 °C and 25 °C, to minimise gassing time and amine consumption; — the moisture of the sand is maintained below 0,1 % and the gassing and purging air is dried; — core boxes are well sealed to allow the amine catalyst gas to be extracted and the cores are thoroughly purged to prevent amine releases during the storage of cores. For resol-ester resins: — the sand temperature is maintained as constant as possible, between 15 °C and 30 °C; — curing of the alkaline phenolic resin is achieved using methyl formate that is gasified by Use of best practices for gas- air typically heated up to 80 °C; hardening processes — core boxes and gassing heads are sealed correctly and the venting of the core box designed to give a slight backpressure so that the curing vapour is held long enough for the reaction to take place. For CO -hardened resins (e.g. alkaline phenolic, silicate): 2 — the exact volume of CO gas necessary for curing the resins is used by employing a flow 2 controller and a timer to achieve the best strength and storage time; — for silicate resins, liquid breakdown agents are employed (e.g. soluble carbohydrates) to increase gassing speed. For SO -hardened resins (e.g. phenolic, epoxy/acrylic): 2 — the gassing period is followed by purging with either the same inert gas (e.g. nitrogen) used for curing or air, to remove the unreacted excess sulphuric dioxide from the sand; — core boxes are well sealed and the cores are thoroughly purged to prevent gas releases during the storage of cores. Use of clean scrap See Section 1.4.1. 1.4.3. Techniques to reduce emissions to air Technique Description Adjustment of the slag See Section 1.4.2. acidity/basicity The removal of pollutants from a process off-gas or waste gas stream by retention on a solid Adsorption surface (activated carbon is typically used as the adsorbent). Adsorption may be regenerative or non-regenerative. Abatement technique which oxidises combustible compounds in a waste gas stream with air or oxygen in a catalyst bed. The catalyst enables oxidation at lower temperatures and in smaller Catalytic oxidation equipment compared to thermal oxidation. The typical oxidation temperature is between 200 °C and 600 °C. 72/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description Equipment for the removal of dust from an off-gas stream based on imparting centrifugal forces, Cyclone usually within a conical chamber. Cyclones are mainly used as a pretreatment before further dust abatement or abatement of organic compounds. Multicyclones may also be used. Dry powder or a suspension/solution of an alkaline reagent (e.g. lime or sodium bicarbonate) is Dry scrubbing introduced and dispersed in the off-gas stream. The material reacts with the acidic gaseous species (e.g. SO ) to form a solid, which is removed by filtration (e.g. fabric filter). 2 Electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) operate such that particles are charged and separated under the influence of an electrical field. Electrostatic precipitators are capable of operating under a wide range of conditions. Abatement efficiency may depend on the number of fields, residence time Electrostatic precipita­ (size), and upstream particle removal devices. They generally include between two and five tor fields, but may contain up to seven fields for the most advanced ESPs. Electrostatic precipitators can be of the dry or of the wet type depending on the technique used to collect the dust from the electrodes. Wet ESPs are typically used at the polishing stage to remove residual dust and droplets after wet scrubbing. Emissions generated from moulding (including the making of patterns) and/or core-making are extracted. The extraction system selected depends on the type of moulding/core-making process. — Natural/green sand moulding: Off-gases generated in the natural or green sand preparation areas (e.g. transport, sieving, mixing and cooling) and in the moulding areas, especially during pouring, are extracted. In the case of automatic moulding machines, appropriate extraction systems are used to Extraction of emissions collect emissions (e.g. roof extraction). In the case of hand moulding, extraction as close as generated from mould­ possible to the emission source is achieved using mobile extraction hoods. ing and/or core-making — Cold-setting, gas curing, hot-curing processes: as close as possible to the emission source In the case of automatic moulding machines, extraction systems are used to collect emissions (e.g. fixed extraction hoods, canopy extraction). In the case of hand moulding, extraction as close as possible to the emission source is realised using mobile extraction hoods. In the event that mobile hoods cannot be used due to the size of the mould and/or space restrictions, casting hall extraction is used. Core shooting machines are enclosed and off-gases are extracted. Extraction is also applied during checking, handling and storage of freshly made cores (e.g. by using hoods at the checking table, above the handling and temporary storage areas). Fabric filters, often referred to as bag filters, are constructed from porous woven or felted fabric through which gases are passed to remove particles. Fabric filters can be in the form of sheets, Fabric filter cartridges or bags with a number of the individual fabric filter units housed together in a group. The use of a fabric filter requires the selection of a fabric suitable for the characteristics of the waste gas and the maximum operating temperature. Flameless combustion is achieved by injecting fuel and combustion air separately into the combustion chamber of the furnace at high velocity to suppress flame formation and reduce the Flameless combustion formation of thermal NO while creating a more uniform heat distribution throughout the X chamber. Flameless combustion can be used in combination with oxy-fuel combustion (see Section 1.4.1). Furnace automation See Section 1.4.1. and control ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 73/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description The technique (including ultra-low-NO burners) is based on the principles of reducing peak X flame temperatures. The air/fuel mixing reduces the availability of oxygen and reduces the peak Low-NO burner X flame temperature, thus retarding the conversion of fuel-bound nitrogen to NO and the X formation of thermal NO , while maintaining high combustion efficiency. X Optimisation of binder See Section 1.4.2. and resin consumption Oxygen enrichment of See Section 1.4.1. the combustion air Oxy-fuel combustion See Section 1.4.1. Post-combustion of CO and other organic compounds contained in furnace off-gases is used to reduce emissions and for heat recovery. The generated heat is recovered with a heat exchanger and used for blast air preheating or other internal purposes. In HBC furnaces, post-combustion Post-combustion of off- takes place in a separate post-combustion chamber preheated by a natural gas burner. In CBC gases furnaces, post-combustion takes place directly in the cupola shaft. In rotary furnaces, post- combustion is carried out using an afterburner installed between the furnace and the heat exchanger. Selection of the appropriate furnace type(s) based on the level of emissions and technical criteria, e.g. type of process such as continuous or batch production, furnace capacity, type of castings, Selection of an appro­ availability of raw materials, flexibility depending on raw materials’ cleanliness and alloy change. priate furnace type The energy efficiency of the furnace is also considered (see technique ‘Selection of an energy- efficient type of furnace’ in Section 1.4.1). Substitution of alcohol- Substitution of alcohol-based coatings of moulds and cores with aqueous coatings. Aqueous based coatings with coatings are dried in ambient air or using drying ovens. water-based coatings Abatement technique which oxidises combustible compounds in a waste gas stream by heating it with air or oxygen to above its auto-ignition point in a combustion chamber and maintaining it at a high temperature long enough to complete its combustion to carbon dioxide and water. The typical combustion temperature is between 800 °C and 1 000°C. Several types of thermal oxidation are operated: — Straight thermal oxidation: thermal oxidation without energy recovery from the combustion. Thermal oxidation — Recuperative thermal oxidation: thermal oxidation using the heat of the waste gases by indirect heat transfer. — Regenerative thermal oxidation: thermal oxidation where the incoming waste gas stream is heated when passing through a ceramic-packed bed before entering the combustion chamber. The purified hot gases exit this chamber by passing through one (or more) ceramic-packed bed(s) (cooled by an incoming waste gas stream in an earlier combustion cycle). This reheated packed bed then begins a new combustion cycle by preheating a new incoming waste gas stream. Use of best practices for See Section 1.4.2. cold-setting processes Use of best practices for gas-hardening pro­ See Section 1.4.2. cesses 74/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/ojEN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description The removal of gaseous or particulate pollutants from a gas stream via mass transfer to a liquid solvent, often water or an aqueous solution. It may involve a chemical reaction (e.g. in an acid or Wet scrubbing alkaline scrubber). In some cases, the compounds may be recovered from the solvent. This includes venturi scrubbers. 1.4.4. Techniques to reduce emissions to water Technique Description In the activated sludge process, the microorganisms are maintained as a suspension in the waste Activated sludge pro­ water and the whole mixture is mechanically aerated. The activated sludge mixture is sent to a cess separation facility from which the sludge is recycled to the aeration tank. The removal of soluble substances (solutes) from the waste water by transferring them to the Adsorption surface of solid, highly porous particles (typically activated carbon). The biological oxidation of dissolved organic pollutants with oxygen using the metabolism of microorganisms. In the presence of dissolved oxygen, injected as air or pure oxygen, the organic Aerobic treatment components are mineralised into carbon dioxide and water or are transformed into other metabolites and biomass. The conversion of dissolved pollutants into an insoluble compound by adding chemical Chemical precipita­ precipitants. The solid precipitates formed are subsequently separated by sedimentation, air tion flotation or filtration. If necessary, this may be followed by microfiltration or ultrafiltration. Multivalent metal ions (e.g. calcium, aluminium, iron) are used for phosphorus precipitation. The conversion of pollutants by chemical reducing agents into similar but less harmful or Chemical reduction hazardous compounds. Coagulation and flocculation are used to separate suspended solids from waste water and are often Coagulation and floc­ carried out in successive steps. Coagulation is carried out by adding coagulants with charges culation opposite to those of the suspended solids. Flocculation is carried out by adding polymers, so that collisions of microfloc particles cause them to bond to produce larger flocs. Balancing of flows and pollutant loads at the inlet of the final waste water treatment by using Equalisation central tanks. Equalisation may be decentralised or carried out using other management techniques. Evaporation of waste water is a distillation process where water is the volatile substance, leaving the concentrate as bottom residue to be handled (e.g. recycled or disposed of). The aim of this operation is to reduce the volume of waste water or to concentrate mother liquors. The volatile steam is collected in a condenser and the condensed water is, if necessary after subsequent treatment, Evaporation recycled. There are many types of evaporators: natural circulation evaporators; short-tube vertical evaporators; basket-type evaporators; falling film evaporators; agitated thin film evaporators. Typical pollutants targeted are soluble contaminants (e.g. salts). The separation of solids from waste water by passing them through a porous medium, e.g. sand Filtration filtration, microfiltration and ultrafiltration. The separation of solid or liquid particles from waste water by attaching them to fine gas bubbles, Flotation usually air. The buoyant particles accumulate at the water surface and are collected with skimmers. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj 75/76EN OJ L, 6.12.2024 Technique Description MBR consists of the combination of a membrane process (e.g. microfiltration or ultrafiltration) Membrane bioreactor with a suspended growth bioreactor. In an MBR system for biological waste water treatment, the (MBR) secondary clarifier and the tertiary filtration step of a traditional aerated sludge system is replaced by membrane filtration (the separation of sludge and suspended solids). Nanofiltration A filtration process in which membranes with pore sizes of approximately 1 nm are used. The adjustment of the pH of waste water to a neutral level (approximately 7) by the addition of chemicals. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH) ) is generally used to increase 2 Neutralisation the pH, whereas sulphuric acid (H SO ), hydrochloric acid (HCl) or carbon dioxide (CO ) is 2 4 2 generally used to decrease the pH. The precipitation of some substances may occur during neutralisation. The separation of gross solids, suspended solids, metal particles from the waste water using for Physical separation example screens, sieves, grit separators, grease separators, hydrocyclones, oil-water separation or primary settlement tanks. A membrane process in which a pressure difference applied between the compartments separated Reverse osmosis by the membrane causes water to flow from the more concentrated solution to the less concentrated one. Sedimentation The separation of suspended particles and suspended material by gravitational settling. Water streams (e.g. surface run-off water, process water) are collected separately, based on the Segregation of water pollutant content and on the required treatment techniques. Waste water streams that can be streams recycled without treatment are segregated from waste water streams that require treatment. 76/76 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2974/oj

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