Atlantic States Cast Iron Pipe reports it will introduce a state-of-the-art emission control system by the first quarter of 2006. It claims it will be "the first foundry in North America to apply control technology to substantially limit mercury emissions."

The Phillipsburg, NJ, foundry produces ductile-iron pipe and is an operating unit of McWane Inc.

The $9.3-million investment will exceed the requirements of federal Clean Air Act standards, as well as New Jersey Dept. of Environmental Protection regulations, Atlantic States says, and will be in place prior to the January 1, 2010 compliance date.

As detailed by Atlantic States, the new emissions system will provide:

• Significant reduction in mercury and particulate-matter emissions;
• Reduction in carbon monoxide emissions by 60%;
• Cost savings in natural gas and electricity consumption, and waste disposal;
• Elimination of the visible steam plume;
• Reduced noise levels associated with daily operations;
• Improved safety and facility housekeeping; and,
• Better performance for the water reuse treatment plant

"We take great pride in the fact that Atlantic States will be introducing a cupola emissions system that will set the standard for the industry and result in significant benefits to the environment," said Mitchell Kidd, vice president and general manager of Atlantic States. "We are particularly proud of our efforts to reduce mercury in the environment through our efforts as an active member of the coalition that successfully pressed for the legislation enacted last month to require the removal of mercury switches from end-of-life vehicles used as scrap metal."

Atlantic States had previously agreed to resolve all outstanding liability with the NJDEP with respect air emissions and stormwater discharges. The company will fund a $85,000 environmental project to monitor mercury in the ambient air, and it will evaluate mercury Continuous Emissions Monitoring System technology, to assist in monitoring baghouse operations and emissions.