Technical analysis of the implementation of the process of dechlorination, regeneration and recovery of dielectric oil contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls

A technical analysis of the implementation of the process of dechlorination, regeneration and recovery of dielectric oil contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls was carried out, in a directed practice modality in an electrical distribution company in Costa Rica. The work was carried out through visits to the company in charge of the process and detailed investigation of the characteristics of the process and the associated equipment. Generally, the analyzes were carried out digitally, but it was required to visit the process area to determine its characteristics and progress made, in addition to the above, visits were made to both state and private organizations, in search of consulting key information for the completion of the analysis. corresponding analysis. Independent analyzes were carried out of each important aspect of the process, such as its environmental impact, occupational risk and the sub-processes of storage and transport of hazardous materials. In the end, extremely important documents were obtained for the definition and schematization of the dechlorination process, so that its implications could be established in the related institutions and the country. Thanks to the analysis, research and designs carried out in this work, it was possible to establish the main characteristics of the process that is to be established in Costa Rica. In addition to the above, it was possible to establish basic information to generate important reports such as energy and occupational safety plans, and the necessary process parameters were compiled to carry out procedures such as environmental feasibility before SETENA. It was determined that the dechlorination process allows reducing the concentration of polychlorinated biphenyls present in transformer oil to a value not detected by current measurement methods. The process is carried out with metallic sodium as a reducing agent in a neutral environment, so that non-hazardous waste is produced and can be treated by conventional methods to obtain substances that can be disposed of in a conventional sanitary landfill. The oil is recoverable after going through a regeneration process, which consists of a system for adsorption of impurities and another for the incorporation of additives. This implies that the process allows both the elimination of dangerous substances and the reuse of dielectric oil after its useful life has been diminished. A basic cost analysis is recommended to compare processed dielectric oil and that purchased new. The foregoing so that the additional benefits that the treatment of contaminated oils can provide, apart from compliance with related laws and the responsible treatment of hazardous waste can be defined