HAZARDOUS WASTE REDUCTION AT PATTERSON PUMP COMPANY

SUMMARY

Patterson Pump Company, located in Toccoa, GA, significantly reduced the purchase and disposal costs of lacquer thinner used in cleaning operations.

BACKGROUND

Prior to modifications, Patterson degreased exhaust frames by immersing an industrial cloth in lacquer thinner and wiping the frame clean. Each time the cloth was immersed, the thinner would become contaminated with dirt and oils. In 1992, Patterson generated 15,632 pounds of lacquer thinner waste and shipped 39 55-gallon drums off site for disposal. Disposal costs totaled $3,900.

PROCESS MODIFICATIONS

Patterson replaced lacquer thinner used in degreasing operations with a citrus based cleaner. Instead of immersing the cloth, the cleaner is now sprayed directly onto the frame and then wiped clean. A substantial portion of the company’s lacquer thinner use was eliminated.

Patterson examined other cleaning processes to ensure only the minimum amount of thinner needed is used, and that thinner is not discarded until it is completely spent. The company continues to discuss the importance of lacquer thinner waste reduction with employees.

RESULTS

By 1993, Patterson’s generation of lacquer thinner waste was reduced by 2,990 pounds, or seven drums. This has reduced disposal costs by $3,200 and has reduced the purchase of virgin thinner by 32 drums per year.