Thermal Desorption Unit Project in Africa: A Clean Transition for Waste Management Company

On December 29th, 2025, Beston Group successfully launched a high-efficiency oil sludge treatment project in Africa. Utilizing advanced TDU pyrolysis technology, the project converts industrial hazardous waste into high-value resources, marking a significant step forward for the region in achieving a circular economy and meeting environmental regulatory standards. Below are the detailed insights into this project:

African BLJ-16 Thermal Desorption Unit Project
Engineers are carefully commissioning the TDU system under the bright sun

Issues Faced & Core Objectives

  • Issues: A mid-sized solid waste management company in Africa had long struggled with massive accumulations of oil sludge. Their previous incineration methods caused severe smoke pollution and a harsh operating environment (high temperatures and odors), making it impossible to meet local environmental regulations.
  • Objectives: To implement advanced pyrolysis equipment that is stable in operation, highly automated, and capable of resource recovery.
Drill Cuttings of African Client
Large volumes of oily drill cuttings staged on the ground for treatment

Solution & Action: BLJ-16 TDU System

After a thorough assessment of the client’s site conditions and processing requirements, Beston Group provided a high-performance BLJ-16 Thermal Desorption Unit (TDU) solution. Below are the key project specifications for your reference:

Model Configuration

  • Model: BLJ-16 thermal desorption unit (standard configuration)
  • Process capacity: 16-18t/batch
  • Working method: Batch
  • Feeding system: Integrated combination of screw feeding and belt conveying

Project Information

  • Raw material: Oil-based drill cuttings (moisture & oil content: ~35%)
  • Project start date: March 27, 2025
  • Successful operation date: December 29, 2025
  • Project duration: 277 Days
Feeding Test on the TDU System
Workers conducting the feeding test on the TDU system

Delivery Journey: Field Challenges & Professional Response

From November 16 to December 29, 2025, Beston Group completed the on-site installation in just 44 days. By using their technical skills, they solved several site problems to ensure the machine operated on time:

Challenge 1

Power Shortages and Material Loss

  • The issue: Frequent power failures at the site and some parts damaged during shipping threatened the schedule.
  • The solution: The team worked on “no-power” tasks first (like manual marking and tightening bolts). We also helped the client find matching parts in the local market so work never stopped.

Challenge 2

Bad Weather Interference

  • The issue: Heavy rain during the rainy season stopped outdoor welding and slowed down the work.
  • The solution: Engineers set up temporary sheds and moved the work focus to indoor pipe welding. This kept the project moving despite the rain.

Challenge 3

Physical Damage to Core Components

  • The issue: Improper unloading by onsite personnel caused physical deformation to the bottom of the oil gas condenser, which could cause leaks.
  • The solution: The technical team fixed the bend on-site and reinforced the metal. After high-pressure tests, the machine was perfectly sealed and safe to use.

📸 On-site Installation Gallery

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Installation of the Manifold of TDU System
Installation of the Manifold of TDU System
Precision Joint Assembly on Site
Precision Joint Assembly on Site
Welding the Piping of TDU System
Welding the Piping of TDU System
Dust Removal Unit Structural Assembly
Dust Removal Unit Structural Assembly
Unloading Water Cooled Screw Conveyor
Unloading Water Cooled Screw Conveyor
Installation of the Steel Support Structure
Installation of the Steel Support Structure

Project Value & Results

Following the successful 15-ton oil sludge commissioning run in late December 2025, the plant is now fully operational, delivering the following key values to the client:

  • Environmental compliance: The closed-loop operation eliminated the smoke emissions associated with traditional incineration.
  • Economic circularity: The produced pyrolysis oil not only fuels the equipment but the surplus also generates additional profit for the client.
  • Brand elevation: The stable operation of this project has helped the client transform from a traditional “incineration station” into a benchmark enterprise for environmental treatment in the region.
Beston Technical Team with African Clients
Group photo of Beston technical team with African clients after the successful commissioning of TDU system
Project Acceptance Report of African Client
African Client's Project Acceptance Report

    Please specify your requirement by referring to the following aspects:

    1-What kind of solution will meet your demand? (Key point)

    2-What kind of end product are you planning to have? (Right solution begins from material and product)

    3-When is the project supposed to be running?

    4-Budget for machinery purchasing? (Key info for right model)

    5-Do you need EPC services, including factory planning, design, construction, equipment installation, etc.?

    6-Points that you really focus on. (Customized service from project consultant)

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