Atlantic States to install new technology, will be first U.S. facility to reduce mercury emissions.

With an investment of $9.3 million, Atlantic States Cast Iron Pipe Co., Phillipsburg, N.J., will become the first North American metalcasting facility to implement a mercury emission control system.

Expected to be in operation by 2006, the company reported the new technology contained in the system is anticipated to allow Atlantic States to surpass compliance with furnace emission limits required by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards under the federal Clean Air Act. The system also allows the company to meet the New Jersey Dept. of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) standards four years before its compliance date of Jan. 1, 2010.

In addition to mercury emissions, Atlantic States expects to reduce carbon monoxide emissions by 60%, save in natural gas and electricity consumption, eliminate the visible steam plume for the first time since 1856 and reduce noise levels.

The introduction of the upgraded system is part of an agreement to resolve all outstanding liability with the NJDEP regarding air emissions and stormwater discharges. As part of the agreement, the company also will fund $85,000 for an environmental project to monitor mercury in the air. Further, Atlantic States will evaluate the use of mercury Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS) technology to assist in monitoring baghouse operations and emissions.

"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," said Mitchell Kidd, vice president and general manager of Atlantic States. "We are particularly proud of our efforts to reduce mercury in the environment 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."