OPTIMIZING FILTRATION AT ETA ARAPIRACA: LEAN SIX SIGMA IMPLEMENTATION

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.317562520056

• Palavras-chave: Efficiency, Filtration, Lean Six Sigma.

• Keywords: Efficiency, Filtration, Lean Six Sigma.

• Abstract:

  Filtration is a physical-chemical process used to remove colloidal particles present in the liquid phase by passing them through a granular medium. It is essential for this layer to be of adequate height and granulometry to ensure effective removal of solid particles. However, it was found at the Arapiraca Water Treatment Plant (WTP) that the level of the filter bed had been reduced, having been replaced 10 years ago. As a result, the efficiency of the filtering system has been compromised. With this in mind, the aim of this work is to apply the Lean Six Sigma method to the refurbishment of the filters at the Arapiraca WTP. In addition, the aim is to describe the systemic operational process that was applied in this intervention and assess the impacts from a quality management perspective. To this end, the activities were planned based on the principles of Lean Six Sigma with an emphasis on the DMAIC cycle. The steps related to revitalizing the filtration system were then carried out. Finally, it should be noted that the method studied in this research proved to be a viable alternative for improving process efficiency and quality. It was also observed that the recovery of the filtration system at this WTP showed favorable results, with an increase in filter performance and a reduction in turbidity.