A comprehensive modernization of the municipal wastewater treatment plant is currently underway in Lutsk, Ukraine, funded from public sources. ESMIL Group is contributing to the project as a supplier of specialized equipment for wastewater treatment and sludge dewatering.
The upgrade is being carried out at facilities operated by the municipal water utility in Lutsk, responsible for the full wastewater treatment process. Once completed, the plant will reach a capacity of 60,000 m³/day.
The project is being implemented in four stages:
- The first phase includes the reconstruction of four primary clarifiers and raw sludge pumping station No. 1.
- The second phase covers the construction of two retention tanks, new external pipelines, and a sludge dewatering building with associated tanks.
- The third phase involves the construction and outfitting of the mechanical treatment building and grit removal facilities.
- The final phase includes the construction of two additional retention tanks, new external networks, and modernization of raw sludge pumping station No. 2.
ESMIL Group is involved in all stages, supplying equipment for each phase of the modernization.
Primary Clarifier Upgrade with ESMIL Equipment
As of April, the first 30 m diameter radial scraper has been commissioned. The unit is manufactured from corrosion-resistant stainless steel and equipped with key operational components, including a track cleaner, weir cleaner, surface scum removal system, and a modern control cabinet. Stainless steel V-notch weirs and semi-submerged scum baffles have also been installed.
The scraper design ensures uniform sludge collection without re-suspension, while effectively removing floating contaminants. Optimized geometry and movement kinematics allow sludge to be transported to the central pit without compromising its properties, resulting in improved sedimentation efficiency.
Key Benefits of ESMIL Clarifier Equipment
- Easy integration into existing concrete tanks without structural modifications
- High corrosion resistance thanks to AISI 304 / 316 stainless steel and surface treatment (pickling and passivation)
- Reduced energy consumption due to optimized bridge and drive design
- Reliable continuous operation under varying loads
- Easy maintenance with accessible components
- Flexible automation with adjustable operating parameters
- Lower operating costs due to durable components and simplified operation
A second identical unit has already been installed and is ready for commissioning. Once operational, two additional radial clarifiers will be taken out of service for modernization and upgrade using systems already delivered to the site.
Further Stages of the Modernization
The project is progressing according to schedule. ESMIL equipment is being gradually integrated into the plant and will be commissioned in subsequent phases.
For the mechanical treatment section, step screens and manual bar screens have been supplied, along with a screenings transport, washing, and compaction system. These upgrades will improve process efficiency, enable automation, reduce operator workload, and enhance performance of downstream equipment.
The modernization also includes aerated grit chambers equipped with scrapers and a modern control system. This will ensure efficient sand removal, reduce the load on clarifiers, and improve operating conditions for sludge dewatering systems. A grit washer is planned to remove organic contaminants and enable reuse of sand, for example in road construction.
To increase sludge handling capacity, a compact containerized system based on the MDQ 503 multi-disc screw press will be installed. It will operate alongside the existing MDQ 502 unit to meet the required process capacity.
Additionally, stainless steel penstocks and stop gates with electric actuators have been installed in the distribution chamber of the primary clarifiers and are scheduled for commissioning soon.
Expected outcomes
The modernization of the Lutsk wastewater treatment plant is an important step in improving local infrastructure and environmental performance.
The project will deliver:
- improved treatment efficiency
- compliance with environmental standards
- implementation of automation and process monitoring systems
- reduced energy consumption and better cost control
- increased overall plant performance
ESMIL Group’s experience in designing and manufacturing wastewater treatment and sludge dewatering equipment supports the effective delivery of projects of this type. A comprehensive approach covering design, manufacturing, integration, commissioning, and service ensures alignment with plant requirements and long-term operational performance.
