Dewatering
Dewatering is a key process in the industrial handling of sludge, process water, and residual materials. The goal is to reduce the water content in the mass, resulting in lower transport costs, reduced volume, and a drier end product.
Since its establishment, Vågen has delivered dewatering solutions to a wide range of industries – from fisheries and aquaculture to process and recycling sectors.
With modern screw presses and advanced technology, we achieve energy-efficient operation, high reliability, and flexibility. Our solutions are tailored to different types of sludge and process water and are manufactured in stainless and acid-resistant steel for long service life. Typical dry matter levels range between 20–35%, and all products comply with current standards and can be adapted to ATEX requirements.
Dewatering technology contributes to sustainable resource management and reduced CO₂ emissions, making it an essential tool for the industry of the future.
Here you can make your own calculations in relation to dewatering: https://avvanning.no
Contact us: vagen@vagen.no Telephone: +47 53 43 02 00
Fish Farming:
With the growing use of land-based and closed fish farms, handling sludge has become increasingly important. Fish sludge is a valuable resource if the dry matter is properly recovered. It contains energy, nitrogen, and phosphorus – elements that can be converted into biogas or fertilizer. Research indicates that phosphorus may become a scarce resource in the future. At the same time, the aquaculture industry releases enormous amounts of sludge annually, equivalent to phosphorus values for 60 million people. Recycling fish sludge is therefore essential, and dewatering is the first step in this process.
Sewage:
Dewatering is an effective solution for handling septic sludge and wastewater. The sludge contains organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus, and should be treated to preserve these nutrients. The dry matter can then be transported to a biogas plant. Methods such as screw presses or belt filters ensure cost-efficient transport and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Oil Industry:
Dewatering slope water and oil-based waste offshore before transport to land offers significant benefits: reduced volume, fewer transport operations, lower fuel consumption, and reduced emissions. The solution is also HSE-friendly, with fewer risky lifts and a lower risk of accidental discharge.
Process Industry:
Sludge from the process industry must be transported to a receiving facility. By dewatering process and rinse water at the plant, the volume is significantly reduced, lowering transport costs and emissions. In the food industry, dry matter can be sent to biogas plants, providing both energy and environmental benefits.
Biogas Production:
Biogas is produced by breaking down organic material in anaerobic conditions (without oxygen) and provides a carbon-neutral energy source. Norwegian biogas production could cover up to 20% of domestic road transport. Typical raw materials include sewage sludge, food waste, livestock manure, and fish sludge. Dewatering before transport to biogas plants reduces costs and emissions. After biogas extraction, the remaining biofertilizer enriches soil, reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, and stores carbon, helping prevent erosion and depletion. This supports a circular bioeconomy and aligns with EU goals for material recycling and climate reduction.






