The waste utilisation plant in Bonn - generating energy with state-of-the-art technology

The Challenge

At the Bonn Waste-to-Energy Plant (MVA), over 1,000 tons of waste are thermally treated and converted into energy every day. Energy is extracted via a boiler and steam generation process that is extremely sensitive to incorrect water chemistry. Deviations in pH and water quality would cause corrosion, deposits, plant damage, and unplanned downtime. The goal was to condition the boiler and feedwater circuit to ensure long-term compliance with guidelines, stability, and operational reliability.

The sera Solution

sera implemented a dual-line dosing system for caustic soda and ammonia water for the boiler systems at the Bonn waste-to-energy plant to ensure targeted water chemistry conditioning in accordance with VGB guidelines. Both dosing systems feature mixing tanks (500 L), sensors, drip pans, dosing pumps, and central control. The working solutions are prepared fully automatically via level control from concentrate and water. Dosing is performed via controllable sera diaphragm and piston pumps depending on the respective plant operation. The ammonia section is designed to be gas-tight to ensure safe handling of the volatile chemical. The entire system is integrated into the control room and can be monitored and controlled remotely.

Customer Benefits

• Stable and compliant water chemistry in the boiler and feedwater circuits
• Permanent protection against corrosion in boiler, feedwater, and condensate lines
• High plant availability and safe continuous operation of power generation
• Reduced maintenance and servicing costs

Summary

The project demonstrates: Without precisely controlled water chemistry, thermal waste incineration cannot be operated reliably—it is a key factor for availability and economic efficiency.