Metal Finishing Services is a recognized leader in the area of hazardous waste minimization. In 1993, the company established a seven-year goal of near zero wastewater discharge. The project was divided into four phases, beginning with the design and installation of a water management spray rinse system. The second phase involved the purchase and installation of a deionizer on the process influent, anticipation of recycling our rinse water. Phase three of the project consisted of the design, purchase, and installation of two vacuum evaporators, making it possible to not only reuse the rinse water, but to also return the heavy metals (nickel and silver) back to the plating tanks.  The completion of the first three phases has resulted in a 60% reduction in water usage and a 92% reduction in F006 sludge generated, during a period when production volumes increased by 60%. As a result of our efforts, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) used our project as a case study in their quarterly Waste Minimization Publication. We were also featured in the South Carolina Commerce Department Magazine.

The fourth phase was completed in the Spring of 2001, and included the capture of solids from the acid/alkali rinse waters so that they can be reused, thus discontinuing the regular discharge of waste water. With the completion of phase four and with continued diligence, management believes the company will be positioned for survival and prosperity well into the twenty-first century.